Permanent Bandshell Project Breaks Ground In Columbia

COLUMBIA, MD — A permanent bandshell will be built at the Columbia Association Lakefront, which will replace the temporary canopy that's been used for years.

The state-of-the-art structure will be called the Columbia Association Lakefront Bandshell will have construction start November 2025 with an anticipated completion date of late spring 2026. Columbia Association is funding the project with backing from a state legislative bond bill sponsored by the Howard County Delegation.

“When it comes to Columbia, it’s the people that make this community so special. But it’s places like this that give us a reason to come together – spaces that bring neighbors side by side and build connection,” said State Senator Clarence Lam. “That’s the true spirit of Columbia. Our delegation was proud to support this bandshell with $750,000 in state funding.”

Merriweather Arts and Culture Center Executive Director Ian Kennedy described the lakefront as the "heart of our community."

"It’s incredibly exciting to soon have a bandshell that reflects the beauty of this place, the quality of the artists who perform here and the importance of the arts to our community,” Kennedy said.

Jeremy Scharfenberg, Columbia Association vice president of community operations, said the new bandshell will allow the Lakefront "will realize its full potential as a place for performances, community gatherings and shared experiences.”

“This bandshell represents the power of partnership – CA and the state working together – to enhance not just Columbia, but the entire region,” Scharfenberg said.