Howard County Executive Calvin Ball unveiled a new COVID-19 Memorial designed to be a peaceful refuge for reflection and remembrance. The park, known for its athletic complex and inclusive playground, adds another dimension with its grove of 44 native birch trees and a contemplative water feature, Howard County announced yesterday.
"The COVID-19 pandemic affected all of us in ways that we may never be able to adequately express. Through this memorial, I hope our residents find a safe, quiet space where they come, reflect and feel at peace, while honoring all who we lost, and all the sacrifices made during the pandemic," Calvin Ball said, per county's press release. The birch trees, chosen for their symbolism of new beginnings, were expected to quickly adapt to Maryland's environment, encapsulating the essence of growth after hardship.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees could see the memorial's fountain centerpiece made of polished black granite. The fountain is designed to reflect the surrounding landscape and stand even when the water is stilled by winter. Seating and fragrant flowers round out the space, which was laid out with deliberation to evoke solace and community healing. "The memorial has truly come together beautifully with the fountain, trees, walkways, and benches," Nick Mooneyhan, Director of Recreation & Parks, told Howard County.
Also revealed during the event was the design for a new sculpture, which was artistically conceptualized by Florida artists Jim Benedict and Lily Kuonen. Tasked to somehow visually embody the vast emotional spectrum the pandemic evoked – from remembrance to hope and resilience – their 16-foot bronze and stainless-steel sculpture features Bay Forget-Me-Not flowers and is slated to be installed by September 2025.
