HAGERSTOWN, Md. — On Aug. 4., Hagerstown officials received an update on a project that aims to turn underused public spaces into active community areas by adding recreation, activities and opportunities for residents to participate.
Representatives from San Mar Family and Community Services and Community of Hope presented their plans for the Enough Community Parks Initiative to the Mayor and Council. The pilot project will bring temporary improvements and community-led activities to three sites in Hagerstown’s South End.
Keith FanJoy from San Mar Family and Community Services said the presentation focused on neighborhood revitalization efforts that began with the Enough Initiative, which brings people together to improve public spaces.
Jennifer Younker from Community of Hope said the group partnered with the urban design firm Gehl to identify where new investments would have the biggest impact. Over several months, residents joined focus groups, meetings, surveys, and listening sessions to help select the three pilot sites.
The chosen sites are Hager Park, the Memorial Boulevard walkway next to Baxter Elementary School, and the parking lot at Emanuel United Methodist Church on Summit Avenue.
Organizers said each site will offer different activities to help neighbors connect and make public spaces feel more welcoming.
The Memorial Boulevard site, known as “Hager Highway,” will feature nature play areas, music performances, reading activities, and family programs along a busy walkway used by residents and children heading to school.
At Hager Park, upgrades will include more nature play areas, rock play structures, gathering spots, seating, and a mini golf course. Some of these features are already being installed ahead of the program’s start.
At the Emanuel United Methodist Church site, called “Hager Hoops,” there will be basketball activities, sports equipment, games, and a modular pump track. The parking lot will remain available for church events when programs are not taking place. Equipment will be stored in a secure shed between events.
Each of the three locations will have a storage shed for equipment when programs are not running. After the pilot ends, the sheds and equipment will be given to the City of Hagerstown so local groups can continue using them.
Programs will begin after community build days and will include reading sessions, music performances, basketball clinics, family events, and free pizza, snacks, water, and giveaways on Saturdays. Organizers said volunteers and local coaches will help run many of the events.
During the pilot, a research team will track attendance, use of the spaces, participation, and community involvement. This information will help plan five larger projects to be announced later this year, with the goal of securing more state and private funding for lasting neighborhood improvements.
Council members asked how the sites will be maintained once programs begin, including questions about trash pickup, lawn care, staffing, and keeping equipment secure.
Organizers said that South End residents, hired with grant funding for their community involvement and experience, will handle maintenance before, during and after events. They will make sure equipment is secure, trash is picked up, and each site is left in good condition after every activity.
Officials described the pilot projects as a starting point for larger neighborhood investments, not as a permanent solution.
By studying how residents use the improved spaces, organizers hope to find long-term improvements that strengthen neighborhood connections, increase recreational opportunities for children and families, and attract future public and private funding to Hagerstown’s South End.
