WASHINGTON COUNTY – Washington County Parks & Recreation has several updates and recent improvements made across local parks and community spaces. Thanks to the generosity of local families and ongoing partnerships, the parks continue to grow as places for connection, recreation, and enjoyment for all.
MAJOR COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENTS
Agriculture Education Center – New pole barn building and multipurpose building improvements:
A 60’ x 120’ pole barn is under construction, made possible through the generous donation of Ad and Janet Fulton. Additionally, two 16-foot ceiling fans were installed in the multi-purpose building, also funded by the Fulton family, to enhance comfort and usability for community events.
Agriculture Education Center – New picnic shelter at the Rural Heritage Village:
Construction is underway on a new picnic shelter at Rural Heritage Village, thanks to the support of the Merwin Hans family. This addition will provide a welcoming space for families and visitors participating in Rural Heritage Village programs.
Marty Snook Park – Mary “Dolly” Snook Memorial Pavilion:
The Mary “Dolly” Snook Memorial Pavilion has been completed at Marty’s Mythical Woods. Jointly funded by the Snook family and Washington County, this beautiful timber-frame pavilion honors Dolly’s memory and provides a welcoming new gathering place for the community.
The pavilion is available for rent through the Washington County Parks and Recreation Department. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on October 28, 2025, at 10 a.m. Additional details about the event will be shared soon.
Tennis court resurfacing:
Washington County is undertaking a comprehensive rehabilitation and resurfacing of tennis courts, ensuring a fresh and improved playing experience for local athletes and recreational players. In partnership with the Washington County Public Schools, work will occur over the next year at the following sites: Regional Park, Pleasant Valley Park, Chestnut Grove Park, Martin Snook Park, Boonsboro High School, Smithsburg High School, Hancock High School, Clear Spring Middle & High School, Williamsport High School, South Hagerstown High School and North Hagerstown High School. County park locations will include pickleball lines, while school sites will include blended youth tennis lines.
Woodland Way Park – sidewalk construction:
A new sidewalk has been completed at Woodland Way Park, improving accessibility and providing safer pathways for visitors. Upcoming improvements in the next year include new playground equipment, court resurfacing, pathway reconstruction and landscaping.
“These projects represent our continued investment in creating welcoming, safe and enjoyable spaces for Washington County residents and visitors,” said Andrew Eshleman, director of public works. “We are especially grateful to the Fulton, Hans and Snook families for their generosity, which makes a lasting difference in our community. I also want to recognize our parks and recreation and the buildings, grounds and facilities staff, whose hard work, expertise and passion are essential in bringing these projects to life.
“Each effort, whether large or small, reflects our commitment to improving quality of life and ensuring our parks remain treasured spaces where people gather and create memories for years to come.”
