Baltimore County held a ribbon cutting Tuesday for its FIRST substantial boat ramp project in 15 years in Dundalk.
This project included as the construction of the first canoe/kayak soft launch at Merritt Point Park.
This boat ramp renovation and new kayak launch better connects Baltimore County residents and visitors to our incredible natural resources, providing another point of safe and convenient access to our waterways,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski.
“Thanks to the Department of Natural Resources and our team at the Department of Recreation and Parks for their partnership to deliver on this opportunity to experience all the scenic beauty our shorelines have to offer.”
The new double boat ramp provides enhanced accessibility for residents and this first soft launch for kayaks and canoes improves access for a wide range of water and paddle sports.
The $1 million project, secured through a partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, was supported by nearly $900,000 in State and Federal waterways and boating grants, and is the County’s first major project of its kind in more than 15 years.
“The Department is excited to reopen the Merritt Point Park Boat Ramp and equally excited to add the new kayak and canoe soft launch area, the first step in our recommitment to water access for our residents and visitors,” said Recreation and Parks Director Bob Smith.
“Baltimore County is home to some of the most beautiful waterways in the State and we are excited to provide the public the opportunity to access them. The Department would like to thank DNR and the County Executive for their continued support towards providing quality recreation opportunities of all varieties to the public.”
There is no fee to access Merritt Point Park, or for the use of the ramp or launch facilities.
“With hundreds of miles of shoreline, Southeastern Baltimore County has so many unique opportunities and beautiful locations for waterfront recreation, including Merritt Point Park in Dundalk,” said Baltimore County Councilman Todd Crandell.
“I’m excited to see this kayak launch open to the public and look forward to seeing our residents enjoy it for generations to come. Thanks to County Executive Olszewski and the Department of Recreation and Parks for working to bring this new amenity to fruition.”
Benjamin Joesph has covered news in Eastern Baltimore County since 2006. He started as a reporter with the original East County Times in 2006. He started East Baltco News and later Eastcountytimes.com in 2022.
