Updates, opportunities and positive solutions toward revitalization were the topic of conversation at the Lexington Park Business and Community Association meeting Wednesday, July 21. County staff, business and property owners met at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department’s social hall and discussed important new capital developments in the pipeline and initiatives to promote “pride in the park,” a notion offered by Robin Finnacom in a previous meeting.
Lexington Park Rescue Squad President Ken Hicks shared conceptual designs for the 14,000-plus square foot building which will sit on FDR Blvd., near the library and BDVFD. Hicks said he expects breaking ground within three months and moving to the new building within the year. The $2.7 million project boasts roomier garages and a commercial-grade kitchen, great, Hicks said for future fundraisers and events.
With this new construction, another piece of FDR will soon be functional. Finnacom explained the Rescue Squad would complete their piece, the State Highway Administration the entrance off of Great Mills Rd. and the County will fund the remainder. The two lane road, she said, “will finally allow that necessary connection,” adding it will also feature sidewalks and decorative lighting as part of the MD 246 Streetscape.
In an effort to boost the public’s perception and success of Lexington Park businesses, the group discussed a “Tidy Up Downtown” campaign and logo design contest to discourage problematic littering. Finnacom said that places are often treated as they’re perceived, making the trash problem a hurdle in revitalization. She received suggestions about family-friendly mascots, participation by schools and conveniently placed trash recepticles that encourage community pride.
One Lexington Park homeowner said, “This thing has to start with the people who care.”
BDVFD’s Bob Braddock suggested, “We need to get the county involved and let everyone know we’re serious about cleaning it up.” Braddock brought up the issue of homelessness and loitering that he and Lexington Park business owners sometimes face.
Finnacom responded, “It is part of our battle,” adding that efforts continue to address the problem. The whole idea, she urged, is “geared for a shift in mind-set…a more positive image [for the community].”
Schaller said he embraces the “pride in the Park” concept because, “it’s about more than just the trash.”
St. Mary’s County Tourism Manager Carolyn Laray spotlighted three area resaurants that will participate in Savor St. Mary’s. She explained how Linda’s Cafe, The Lexington and the Mixing Bowl were boosting their business by offering special dishes featuring locally-grown ingredients. Finnacom said local restauranteurs are excited about the experience. For details, click here.
Another upcoming event that the group looked to plan for is the Centennial of Naval Aviation, in 2011, that will draw visitors to the base and the adjacent Lexington Park area that blossomed out of it. Finnacom and St. Mary’s Economic and Community Development Director Bob Schaller suggested area businesses should begin planning events and activities that emphasize the historical connections to the base and it’s place in the story of naval aviation.
The Association’s next meeting, Wednesday, Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. at BDVFD’s social hall will focus on the Colony Square townhomes lo
