Projects

Westport & Smith Cove Waterfront Parks

Westport & Smith Cove
Waterfront Parks

As part of the broader Reimagine Middle Branch Initiative, the Westport and Smith Cove Waterfront Parks Project continues to advance its mission to revitalize approximately 30 acres of waterfront space in Baltimore City. At the 60% design stage, the project remains focused on enhancing accessibility, creating inclusive recreation, and gathering spaces, and emphasizing environmental sustainability.

For generations, Westport has been a community defined by connection and culture. Its waterfront, once shaped by industry and commerce, now stands as a canvas for a new vision — one rooted in shared values, community pride, and the deep historical ties that make Westport unique.

OUTREACH & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

PROJECT HISTORY

Since early 2023, the Westport & Smith Cove Waterfront Parks project has engaged the local community through a variety of outreach events, programs, and feedback opportunities. These efforts were designed to ensure the voices of residents, local organizations, youth, and historians were reflected in the design of the new park, and now, in the Black Sox Memorial.

EXPLORE THE STORYMAP

The project’s interactive StoryMap is a key outreach tool. It highlights the park design process, community input, and the story behind the Baltimore Black Sox.

Explore

KEY ENGAGEMENT MOMENTS HAVE INCLUDED:

• Spring 2023 – Fall 2024: A series of small group conversations and community events, including a back-to-school backpack giveaway. We also hosted a well-attended community event at Westport Academy featuring the school’s cheerleaders, where we provided meals for attendees, introduced the park design to neighbors, and captured the communities vision for the space.

• Fall 2024 – Spring 2025: During the 60% Design Phase, we participated in coffee chats at Westport Academy, where we conducted community surveys. We also developed the Westport Waterfront Parks StoryMap during this phase. Additionally, we participated in the May 2025 Rails-to-Trails Earth Day Event, where we engaged residents in conversations about the Westport & Smith Cove Waterfront Park Project, shared key updates, and collected community stories.

• Ongoing Stakeholder Conversations: Throughout 2024 and 2025, we’ve continued coordination with community groups like the Westport CEDC, Baltimore City agencies, Parks & People, and the Maryland Historical Trust.