Plan for the Bowie Race Track Property Seeks Community Input

BSU and Bowie Residents Invited to Share Ideas in Public Forum and Survey

 

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thompson, dlthompson@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311

(BOWIE, Md.) – Bowie State University students, faculty and staff and Bowie area residents are invited to have a say in determining the future of the Bowie Race Track property slated to transfer to the City of Bowie by the end of 2023. State law requires the land to be dedicated to recreational uses benefitting the Bowie area community and Bowie State University.

Community members and interested stakeholders are invited to complete a short survey and to participate in a Community Planning Workshop on Dec. 3 to express interest in various types of recreational amenities that might be offered at the site. The workshop will be held 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the BSU Student Center. The survey will remain open until December 20.

The 150+ acre race track property is north of the City of Bowie and just south of the Bowie State University campus and includes land on both sides of Race Track Road. It was the scene of thoroughbred horse racing from 1914 to 1985 and served as a training facility for other tracks in Maryland after racing ceased there.

“The Bowie Race Track was once a local treasure where the community could gather to celebrate, enjoy and be proud,” said BSU President Aminta Breaux. “We are glad to partner with the City of Bowie to develop a list of desired uses for the race track and a concept plan for activation what will revitalize the property and  ensure it can once again be a highly sought after amenity in our community.”

Mayor Tim Adams, one of the City Council representatives on the Task Force, said, “This is a tremendous opportunity for our community and Bowie State University to work together on a recreational vision for this key property which sits on both of our doorsteps. I am excited about the collaboration and look forward to learning what the recreational needs and wishes are.”

The Bowie Race Track Task Force, which was appointed by the Bowie City Council, created the community survey and will be responsible for developing a prioritized list of desired recreational uses and associated space needs. The Task Force is made up of representatives from Bowie State University, local homeowners associations, City committees, the City Council, and the Bowie community to study and make recommendations about future use of the site. Anyone with an interest in the community, the BSU campus, or in recreational offerings in the area is encouraged to complete the short 10-question survey.

Complete the survey and learn more about the Bowie Race Track Task Force.

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