New Bicycle Traffic Garden Opens At Huntington Park

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — The new bicycle traffic garden located on the repurposed basketball court at Huntington Park in Columbia has opened.

Built for young and inexperienced riders, the interactive traffic garden teaches new riders to follow directional signs, learn safe street skills and encourage proper etiquette when riding. A first-of-its-kind in Howard County parks, the department hopes to find additional locations in the future for similar bike-riding experiences and wants to remind visitors that a bicycle helmet is required.

"When we talk about Columbia, a planned community, some of the things that come to people’s minds are path interconnectivity and a place to live that does not require a car to get everywhere – but rather, can be navigated by walking or biking. Biking offers numerous benefits that positively impact our health, the environment and our wallets. In a world where time and resources are precious, biking stands out as a simple, efficient and sustainable mode of transportation," Howard County Executive Calvin Ball.

Howard County also installed bicycle racks, safety bollards, trash and recycling cans, and benches as part of the project. Advocates from two local nonprofits, Bike HoCo and FreeBikes4Kidz, attended the ribbon cutting and provided free helmets.

"Transforming an old basketball court that was no longer in use into Howard County’s first Bicycle Traffic Garden not only promotes sustainability, but also creates a dynamic and inclusive space for everyone. It’s a testament to the positive impact that can be achieved when we reimagine existing resources through collaborations," said Nick Mooneyhan, director of the county department of recreation and parks.