Building the Future of University Park

Building the Future of University Park


Welcome to the next chapter in University Park’s story. 


Our beloved Town Hall—a 1926 home turned administrative hub—has served us well for decades. But as our Town grows and our services evolve, we need a space that’s purpose-built for how we work today, and how we hope to grow tomorrow.

That’s why University Park is planning the construction of a new Town Hall: a modest, efficient, and future-ready facility designed to better serve residents, staff, and our entire community.

We’re building a Town Hall that reflects University Park’s values: fiscal responsibility, community access, and thoughtful stewardship of public space.


Why Now? 

The current Town Hall, while historic and charming, presents serious limitations:

  • Does not meet ADA accessibility standards, limiting access for residents and staff with disabilities
  • Lacks modern security infrastructure
  • Too small to comfortably house our full administrative, police, and public works teams - or to serve as a community gathering space. 
  • Not designed for contemporary technology or municipal operations
In short, we've outgrown our space—and retrofitting an old house simply costs more, with fewer long-term benefits.

  • Estimated cost to renovate & expand the current building: $4.14 million
  • Estimated cost to construct a new Town Hall: $3.3 million
  • Goal: a better building—at a lower cost!

How Will it Be Funded? 

We are funding the project through a mix of grants, reserves, and strategic borrowing—not new taxes or fees. 

Proposed funding sources include:

  • NEW! $400,000 State of Maryland grant secured via Senator Alonzo Washington
  • $422,701 FY2025 designated funds
  • $2.5 million from Town surplus (remaining surplus would be kept in reserve)
  • Up to $1 million in State Bonds
  • Grants for specific portions (ex: audio/visual improvements)

What Comes Next? 

The preliminary timeline for construction is 2027 through 2029. In the coming months, we’ll:

  • Launch public updates and opportunities to learn more
  • Finalize the building design
  • Complete environmental, permitting, and bidding steps (12-18 months)
  • Construct the new facility (24-36 months)
  • Furnish building, relocate necessary equipment, and move staff offices (6 months)