The Charles County Resilience Authority, in partnership with the Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism, and the Department of Planning and Growth Management, has announced the award of a $438,000 grant for the construction of the Waldorf Elite Gymnastics Stormwater Pocket Park.

From the county press release: 

“We’re excited about the Stormwater Pocket Park at the Waldorf Elite Gymnastics Center, which will transform unused space into vibrant green space for our residents. This project supports the Commissioners’ goals for resiliency and sustainability by managing stormwater effectively while creating a welcoming environment that benefits both our community and natural resources,” said Deborah Hall, Acting County Administrator.

The project serves a dual function: storing and treating stormwater runoff from rain events while also providing access to natural, shaded greenspace during drier conditions. The future stormwater park will complement the Sunshine Art Park at the front of the facility.

The grant was awarded through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. The Fund provided $29 million in funding to 27 ecological restoration projects for Fiscal Year 2026. Projects were selected based on their ability to improve water quality, enhance resilience to climate impacts, and improve habitats, as well as considerations for environmental justice.