Gaithersburg, MD
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The Department of Parks, Recreation & Culture provides quality parks, well-planned, sustainable facilities, and diverse cultural, artistic, and recreational opportunities that promote the health and well-being of residents and visitors alike. We aspire to provide a high-quality lifestyle and promote wellness and diversity by fostering the physical, mental, and social well-being of all. We are committed to actively fostering diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency throughout our programmatic, research, development, and operational efforts.
We are an adaptive organization that serves our community with vigor, energy, and compassion. Our core values include:
- Health & Wellness – Promoting healthy and enriching lifestyles for all ages, abilities, and incomes
- Equity & Inclusivity – Providing equitable access to all recreation opportunities while celebrating our diversity
- Community Engagement – Providing effective communications and opportunities for involvement
- Stewardship – Preserving and conserving natural, cultural, and historic resources
- Excellence – Offering high-quality, innovative programs
- Exemplary Customer Service – Delivering positive, responsive customer service
- Safety – Operating safe facilities and programs
- Lifelong Learning – Offering engaging educational opportunities
Gaithersburg’s parks and recreation system began in 1970 with three parks—Civic Center (now Griffith Park), Duvall Park, and Lee Street Park (now Constitution Gardens)—totaling nine acres. Today, the City maintains 28 parks and 15 recreation facilities encompassing 854 acres. On City-owned grounds, you'll find athletic fields, aquatic centers, meeting and class facilities, gymnasiums, fitness areas, miniature golf, an outdoor performance pavilion, trails, and natural areas. A full range of classes, sports programs, youth activities, cultural arts performances, and special events take place at these and other facilities throughout the City.
The Department is divided into four divisions:
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Cultural Events & Services produces large celebrations and neighborhood events and promotes a climate in which artistic expression and creative excellence can flourish.
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Facilities & Administration provides the department with resources and support, ensuring that affordable, well-maintained facilities are available for community functions and activities.
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Recreation Services offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, programs, and classes for all ages and supports older adults in maintaining an active, independent lifestyle.
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Sports & Youth Services provides active and passive parkland, encourages play through organized sports, and offers activities and programs that promote positive youth development.