Montgomery Parks(opens in a new tab), is closing Caroline Freeland Urban Park(opens in a new tab) in downtown Bethesda for renovations, beginning in early June 2023. The one-acre park sits at 7200 Arlington Road, between Hampden Lane and Elm Street. It will be closed for the remainder of this year.
Once completed, the renovated park will feature a new central lawn and a large seating terrace. Accessible pathways will provide easy access to new amenities, including a larger playground, bench swings, and bicycle parking. The lighting and the entire streetscape fronting the park will be improved, including a new entry plaza. Hampden Lane will be renovated into a more pedestrian-oriented plaza, while maintaining required emergency vehicle access through the park.
“This renovation will modernize the park and provide a place where children can play, adults can meet friends for lunch or just find a spot to enjoy nature and read a book.” said Mike Riley, director of Montgomery Parks. Caroline Freeland Park is named for the first female chair of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Montgomery Parks developed the park renovation plan in cooperation with the nearby Edgemoor Citizens Association and the broader community.
The park is projected to reopen in 2024.
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