Governor Wes Moore attended a groundbreaking ceremony in Annapolis, MD, marking the commencement of the transformation of the historic Pikesville Armory in Baltimore. This revitalization project aims to convert the military site into a vibrant, intergenerational regional hub supporting recreation, sports, and the arts.
Governor Moore expressed enthusiasm for the project, viewing it as a milestone for Baltimore’s future. The Pikesville Armory project is expected to create a lasting impact on the community, offering new opportunities in sports, arts, and education, particularly for children and veterans. It represents a collaborative effort among Maryland’s leaders to enhance the city’s stature among America’s great cities.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger, Comptroller Brooke Lierman, House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, and Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, along with veterans and local community leaders. The redevelopment of the 14-acre site will involve renovating the main armory building into a recreational facility for veterans and youth, transforming smaller spaces for educational purposes, and utilizing a 10-acre green space for sports fields and play areas suitable for all ages.
The project, led by the Seawall Company and Onyx Development, will also feature spaces for sporting and cultural events, walking paths, public art, a universally accessible playground, perennial gardens, and classrooms. This initiative is set to revitalize the Reisterstown Road corridor and is seen as a once-in-a-generation opportunity. The first phase of redevelopment is scheduled to begin in April.
The Pikesville Armory, a part of the National Guard’s expansion and in continuous use since 1903, was listed on the National Registry of Historical Places in 1985. The State of Maryland has contributed $8 million to the project through bonds and grants over the past four years. The Pikesville Armory Foundation, comprising local organizations, will oversee the project, ensuring community involvement and public input in the redevelopment process.