Mayor Scott, Rec & Parks Announce Additional Renovations at Ambrose Kennedy Pool Groundbreaking

BALTIMORE, MD. (Monday, July 10, 2023) – Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott, City officials, and Baltimore City Recreation & Parks (BCRP) held a groundbreaking event and announced plans to renovate East Baltimore’s Ambrose Kennedy Pool at Henrietta Lacks Educational Park. Renovations are part of the City’s Rec Rollout and the continued transformation of the park.

“We are committed to equity and inclusivity across all neighborhoods in the City of Baltimore. Our vision is to ensure that all residents have access to high-quality recreational spaces to enjoy within proximity of their homes,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “Upgrading this facility is a great example of how we are revitalizing communities while ushering in a new era in recreation that benefits the well-being of our residents.”

Improvements to the swim area include a new pool, ADA lift, pool deck, waterslide, mechanical equipment, and waterline. This project is funded through City and State bonds and is an investment of more than $2 million.

“We’re thrilled to continue advancing our Rec Rollout. These projects allow us to honor our pledge to provide top-notch recreation opportunities in our neighborhoods,” said Baltimore City Parks and Recreation Executive Director Reginald Moore. “We look forward to announcing additional upgrades to our recreational facilities.”

Henrietta Lacks Educational Park is a 1.75-acre park featuring updated basketball courts and bathrooms, along with new green spaces and walking paths. Originally dedicated in 1951, the City kicked off the first phase of renovations to the park in 2018.

The park’s new pool is expected to open for the 2024 swim season. This summer, residents can utilize the park’s splash pad. “We are very excited to learn that a brand-new pool is coming to Johnston Square and that we have been assured that our youth will have access to the splash pad all summer this season,” said Rebuild Johnston Square Neighborhood Executive Director Regina Hammond. “We stand ready to work together with our partners at the City of Baltimore to fulfill the needs of our communities and our youth in the future.”