Traci Atkins Park

TRACI ATKINS PARK is a small pocket park serving West Baltimore’s Mount Clare neighborhood. It was originally created in the 1970s on a decommissioned rail yard. Today, much of the original construction has deteriorated but the surrounding community remains strongly committed to the park’s success. In 2023, the city engaged the JCLA team to facilitate a park-visioning process with the input of neighboring residents. The design team guided neighbors through a series of conversations inventorying shared aspirations and comparing alternative design ideas. The resulting Vision Plan provides an actionable framework for revitalizing this neglected green space. A lush grove marks the new entry to the park with reclaimed stone seating framing views along a gently-sloping greensward. To the east, an expanded playground incorporates nature- and water-based play using reclaimed wood and architectural materials. On the west side, an existing basketball court is retrofitted to accommodate futsal games. The centerpiece of the revitalized park is the new South Lawn, a pastoral open space for informal gathering and recreation. Off to the side, a new pavilion and terrace provide much needed space for gathering and hosting community events and concerts.