News - FAQ List Quick

FAQ List Quick

December 6, 2024
  • M-NCPPC Announces Early Closure of Outdoor Operations Due to Extreme Heat; Cooling Centers and Aquatic Facilities Available

    RIVERDALE, MD – July 2, 2026 – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, announces that all outdoor operations will close today at 2 pm due to extreme heat conditions. Residents, visitors, and employees are encouraged to take necessary precautions as dangerously high temperatures and heat index values increase the risk of heat-related illness. The Department encourages everyone to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.

    Cooling Centers & Pools

    Click here for a full list of designated cooling centers and indoor and outdoor pools.

    Programs and Events

    Most scheduled programs, camps, sports leagues, outdoor fitness classes, concerts, and special events will continue as planned.

    Due to the extreme heat, the following schedule changes are in effect for Thursday, July 2:

    • Shakespeare in the Parks has been canceled.
    • Wonderful World of Watkins (WWOW) will close early at 3 pm

    Please be advised that programs and services may be adjusted, postponed, relocated, or modified as weather conditions warrant. For the most current updates, check pgparks.com or sign up for PGParks Alerts.

    Outdoor Aquatic Facilities

    Outdoor pools are a great way to cool off during periods of extreme heat. Advanced registration is suggested where applicable.

    • Allentown Splash Park: 7210 Allentown Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Cross Creek Pool: 12806 Bay Hill Drive, Calverton, MD 20705
    • Ellen Linson Splash Park: 5211 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740
    • Glenn Dale Splash Park: 1901 Glenn Dale Boulevard, Glenn Dale, MD 20769
    • Hamilton Splash Park: 3901 Hamilton Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781
    • J. Franklyn Bourne Pool: 6500 Calmos Street, Seat Pleasant, MD 20743
    • Lane Manor Splash Park: 7601 West Park Drive, Hyattsville, MD 20783
    • North Barnaby Splash Park: 5000 Wheeler Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

    For locations, hours, and availability, visit pgparks.com.

    Outdoor Activity Advisory

    To reduce the risk of heat-related illness, patrons are strongly encouraged to limit time outdoors, especially during peak heat hours. Residents planning outdoor activities are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

    Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages that may contribute to dehydration. Patrons should also monitor for signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, excessive sweating, or weakness, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

    When possible, consider postponing visits to the following outdoor recreational amenities during periods of extreme heat:

    • Parks and trails
    • Outdoor courts (tennis, pickleball, and basketball)
    • Playgrounds
    • Golf courses
    • Picnic pavilions
    • Campgrounds
    • Trap & Skeet Center
    • Old Maryland Farm
    • Athletic fields and other outdoor recreational facilities

    Depending on weather conditions and heat index levels, certain outdoor facilities or athletic fields may experience temporary operational adjustments to protect public health and safety.

    Residents are encouraged to check on older adults, children, and other vulnerable individuals during periods of extreme heat.

    We appreciate your cooperation as we navigate this extreme weather together. Stay safe, stay cool, and continue to “Live More, Play More” safely.

    For updates, facility information, or to sign up for PGParks Alerts, visit pgparks.com

    About the Department

    With over 30,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit  www.pgparks.com.

  • Extreme Heat Expected This Week: M-NCPPC Encourages Safety and Use of Cooling Resources

    RIVERDALE, MD – June 30, 2026 – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County, is encouraging residents to take precautions during the current heat advisory and to utilize available cooling resources throughout the county. As temperatures and heat index values rise, residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit prolonged outdoor activity, and seek air-conditioned spaces when possible. The Department remains committed to the health and safety of residents, visitors, and staff during periods of extreme heat.

    Cooling Relief Options Available

    All Department sites, including community centers and indoor facilities, are open during normal hours and may be used as quick-stop cooling centers. These sites offer short-term relief, such as a place to cool down, grab a drink of water, or use the restroom. While not full-service cooling centers, they are available to help individuals manage the heat safely.

    Extreme Heat Schedule-Wednesday-Saturday

    The Department has several designated cooling centers across Prince George’s County. These locations are air-conditioned and open during their standard operating hours. Residents are encouraged to confirm hours of operation (visit pgparks.com for hours of operation) before visiting.

    Wednesday, July 1-Saturday, July 4 – Department cooling centers will be open during normal operation hours. Indoor and outdoor pools will close at 4 pm on July 4(visit pgparks.com for hours of operation).

    Friday, July 3--All Department community centers and designated cooling centers will be open and operating during normal operation hours (visit pgparks.com for hours of operation). In addition, all indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities will remain open and operate according to their scheduled hours.

    Saturday, July 4-The Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex (8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785) will remain open and serve the County’s full-service cooling center from 8 am – 8 pm. Residents seeking relief from the heat on July 4 are encouraged to utilize this location. Case management and support services will be available on site throughout the heat emergency.

    Residents are also encouraged to check individual facility hours before visiting.

    Designated Cooling Centers

    • Camp Springs Senior Activity Center, 6420 Allentown Road, Camp Springs, MD 20748
    • Cedar Heights Community Center, 1200 Glen Willow Drive, Seat Pleasant, MD 20743
    • Glenarden Community Center, 8615 McLain Ave, Glenarden, MD 20706
    • Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Hillcrest Heights Community Center, 2300 Oxon Run Dr., Hillcrest Heights, MD 20748
    • Huntington Community Center, 13022 8th St. Unit B, Bowie, MD 20720
    • John E. Howard Community Center 4400 Shell Street, Capitol Heights, MD 20743
    • Kentland Community Center, 2413 Pinebrook Avenue, Landover, MD 20785
    • Lakeland College Park Community Center, 5051 Pierce Ave, College Park, MD 20740
    • Langley Park Community Center, 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville, MD 20783
    • Largo/Kettering/Perrywood Community Center, 431 Watkins Park Dr, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
    • Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center, 7120 Contee Road, Laurel, MD 20707
    • Oakcrest Community Center, 1300 Capitol Heights Blvd, District Heights, MD 20747
    • Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex, 8001 Sheriff Rd, Landover, MD 20785
    • Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, 6120 Sargent Rd, Chillum, MD 20782
    • South Regional Technology and Recreational Complex, 7007 Bock Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex, 13601 Missouri Avenue, Brandywine, MD 20613
    • Suitland Community Center, 5600 Regency Lane, Forestville, MD 20747
    • Temple Hills Community Center, 5300 Temple Hill Rd, Temple Hills, MD 20748
    • Tucker Road Ice Rink, 1770 Tucker Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Upper Marlboro Community Center, 5400 Marlboro Race Track Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
    • Vansville Community Center, 6813 Ammendale Road, Beltsville, MD 20705

    Programs and Events

    Currently, all scheduled programs, activities, camps, sports leagues, outdoor fitness classes, concerts, special events, and other Department offerings remain on schedule. The Department continues to monitor weather conditions closely and will communicate any necessary schedule changes, cancellations, or modifications if a Heat Advisory or other severe weather conditions impact operations.

    Please be advised: that programs and services may be adjusted, postponed, relocated, or modified as weather conditions warrant. For the most current updates, please visit pgparks.com or sign up for PGParks Alerts.

    Pools Remain Open

    Indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities will remain open and operate during their scheduled hours, including on the July 4 holiday.

    Advanced reservations are recommended where applicable. Visiting one of the Department’s aquatic facilities is a great way to stay cool, active, and refreshed during periods of extreme heat.

    Indoor Aquatic Facilities (Hours vary by location)

    • Allentown Splash Park: 7210 Allentown Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Fairland Sports & Aquatics Complex: 13820 Old Gunpowder Rd, Laurel, MD 20707
    • Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex: 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785
    • Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pool: 6122 Sargent Road, Hyattsville, MD 20782
    • Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex: 13601 Missouri Avenue, Brandywine, MD 20613
    • Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatic Center: 8615 McLain Avenue, Glenarden, MD 20706

    Outdoor Aquatic Facilities:

    • Allentown Splash Park: 7210 Allentown Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Cross Creek Pool: 12806 Bay Hill Dr Calverton, MD 20705
    • Ellen Linson Splash Park: 5211 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740
    • Glenn Dale Splash Park: 1901 Glenn Dale Boulevard, Glenn Dale, MD 20769
    • Hamilton Splash Park: 3901 Hamilton Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781
    • J. Franklyn Bourne Pool: 6500 Calmos Street, Seat Pleasant, MD 20743
    • Lane Manor Splash Park: 7601 West Park Drive, Hyattsville, MD 20783
    • North Barnaby Splash Park: 5000 Wheeler Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

    Outdoor Activity Advisory

    To reduce the risk of heat-related illness, patrons are strongly encouraged to limit time outdoors, especially during peak heat hours. Residents planning outdoor activities are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

    Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages that may contribute to dehydration. Patrons should also monitor signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, excessive sweating, or weakness, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

    When possible, consider postponing visits to the following outdoor recreational amenities during periods of extreme heat:

    • Parks and trails
    • Outdoor courts (tennis, pickleball, and basketball)
    • Playgrounds
    • Golf courses
    • Picnic pavilions
    • Campgrounds
    • Trap & Skeet Center
    • Old Maryland Farm
    • Athletic fields and other outdoor recreational facilities

    Depending on weather conditions and heat index levels, certain outdoor facilities or athletic fields may experience temporary operational adjustments to protect public health and safety.

    Residents are encouraged to check on older adults, children, and other vulnerable individuals during periods of extreme heat.

    We appreciate your cooperation as we navigate this extreme weather together. Stay safe, stay cool, and continue to “Live More, Play More” safely.

    For updates, facility information, or to sign up for PGParks Alerts, visit pgparks.com

    About the Department

    With over 30,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.

  • Court Upholds M-NCPPC Position in Budget Hearings

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2026

    MEDIA CONTACT: Calista Black, Calista.Black@mncppc.org 

                                    Anika B. Jackson, Anika.Jackson@pgparks.com

    Court Upholds M-NCPPC Position in Budget Hearings, Affirming Agency

    Authority and Funding Decisions


    Riverdale, Md–The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) respects the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County’s decision and is grateful for the careful consideration given to this matter on behalf of the residents of Prince George’s County. The Court’s decision to grant a time-limited temporary restraining order in favor of the Commission will allow M-NCPPC to remain a good fiscal steward of taxpayer dollars and continue delivering services and programs in a manner that best serves the 970,000+ residents of Prince George’s County.

    While today’s ruling preserves the status quo until the full hearing in September, M-NCPPC remains committed to a constructive working relationship with County Executive Braveboy and the County Council. The Commission stands ready to work collaboratively with the County to develop a lawful framework for project charges that honors the intent of the Land Use Article and continues to serve the residents of Prince George’s County.

    About The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission 

    The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is a bi-county agency empowered by the State of Maryland in 1927 to acquire, develop, maintain, and administer a regional system of parks within Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, and to provide land use planning for the physical development of Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. In addition, the agency gained responsibility for the public recreation program in Prince George’s County in 1970. The governing body of M-NCPPC consists of 10 members, five appointed by Montgomery County and five by Prince George’s County. The Commission coordinates and acts on matters of interest to both counties and meets at least once a month. The members of the commission from each county serve on separate county planning boards to facilitate, review, and administer the matters affecting their respective counties.  

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