Baltimore County opens new accessible trail at Rocky Point Park
ESSEX—Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier, the Department of Recreation and Parks, and community leaders today celebrated the opening of a newly constructed accessible trail at Rocky Point Park in Essex.
The $1 million project, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), enhances access to one of Baltimore County’s signature recreational and economic assets—its scenic waterfront.
“Parks are for everyone, and I am thrilled that visitors of all different abilities are now able to access this beautiful park and enjoy one of the best waterfront views in Baltimore County,” said Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier. “Thanks to our federal partners for supporting this important project, which I know will attract visitors from all over the region.”
This new trail and its amenities reflect Baltimore County’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly recreation and parks. The improvements provide a safe and accessible pathway for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy outdoor recreation along the water’s edge.
Highlights of the project include:
- Sidewalks and walkways made from porous, flexible paving materials made of recycled automobile tire rubber and stone
- Reinforced concrete boardwalk planks supported by helical piles, which transfer toads to deeper, more stable soil layers
- A new 30-foot by 50-foot pavilion with grill
- Accessible parking
- Native plantings that include 10 canopy trees, 4 understory trees and 10 shrubs
- Bench tops made of recycled plastics
The trail replaces a previously deteriorating path that lacked accessibility, significantly improving usability and safety for all visitors. The project complements a newly installed playground—one of 60 playground replacements completed by Baltimore County since 2022.
“Baltimore County is focused on making recreation accessible for all people,” said Bob Smith, Director of Recreation and Parks. “Our work to reimagine recreation and parks includes providing facilities and programs that are high quality, diverse and accessible.”
Rocky Point Park is also home to the historic Ballestone-Stansbury House, as well as a popular beach, boating facilities including with two ramps and a fishing pier, picnic areas, Sailing Center, pavilions and a bath house.
The new trail is part of a broader investment in accessible recreation infrastructure across Baltimore County, including:
COMPLETED
- Diamond Ridge Park accessible enhancements, including path, parking, and picnic area
- Fleming Community Center and Park pier replacement and new accessible path
- Fort Howard Veterans Park accessible path and kayak/canoe launch
- Hazelwood Skate Park accessible parking and access
- Lurman Woodland Theatre upgrades, including accessible parking, boardwalk, and seating
- Meadow Creek Park accessible path
- Milford Mill Trail repairs (opening July 2025)
- Sparrows Point Park accessible path and kayak launch
IN PROGRESS
- Banneker Community Center and Park accessible path and destination playground
- Cromwell Valley Park road-widening and parking lot improvements, including accessible parking, path and new pavilion (starting late 2025)
- Fort Howard Veterans Park accessible path and kayak/canoe launch
- Holt Park and Center for the Arts path improvements
- Stansbury Park pier replacement with new accessible entry path and parking
IN DESIGN
- Cloverland Park Cricket Field improvements including accessible parking
- Miami Beach accessible path and boardwalk
- Northeast Trail South (Kenwood Avenue to Rossville Boulevard)
- Northeast Trail North: (Rossville Boulevard to Beaconsfield Roar)
- Oregon Ridge Park accessible loop trail
- Patapsco Regional Greenway (Elkridge to Guinness Trail Segment)
- Patapsco Regional Greenway (Baltimore Highlands)
- Red Run Trail
- Rosedale Park accessible path and parking lot connection
- West-East Trail
- Western Hills Park accessible path and bridge