The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has reopened the walking loop around Druid Lake, signaling the near completion of a historic infrastructure project to enclose and protect one of the City’s major drinking water facilities.

The reopening of the loop this spring invites residents back to enjoy one of Baltimore’s most scenic and treasured destinations—the iconic Druid Hill Park, often referred to as the City’s version of Central Park. This milestone also marks a major step forward in DPW’s efforts to modernize Baltimore’s water infrastructure while preserving public green space.

“We are excited to welcome Baltimoreans back to the walking loop around Druid Lake,” said DPW Director Khalil Zaied. “Our underground tank project represents a once-in-a-generation investment in public health, water quality, and urban infrastructure. We’re proud that we accomplished this while working to preserve Druid Lake as a recreational destination.”

Modified Walking Loop Now Open

The portion of the pathway around the lake that has reopened is a modified loop that extends along the coffer dam, which was a temporary structure built across the reservoir to create a dry area.

While it offers a scenic and continuous walking path, it differs slightly from the original loop that existed before DPW installed the underground tanks. The full loop, including the portion that extends over the grassy area around the buried tanks, will remain fenced through mid-summer to allow for final site restoration.

These remaining site restoration activities will not impact access to the modified loop, which will remain open and safe for public use. Fencing and signage will guide parkgoers and ensure safety while the remainder of the site is being restored.

“We understand how important this space is to the community,” said Director Zaied. “That’s why we’ve made every effort to reopen as much of the loop as possible, as soon as it’s safe to do so.”

A Legacy Infrastructure Project Nears the Finish Line

The Druid Lake Underground Tank Project began as part of DPW’s compliance with federal drinking water regulations, requiring the City to cover its open-air reservoirs. Where the original western end of the reservoir once existed, two massive underground tanks—each over the size of a football field—now collectively store and protect up to a capacity of 46 million gallons of finished drinking water for Baltimore residents.

No longer containing treated drinking water, the current lake at the park will be strictly used for recreational purposes. To fill this lake, stormwater is now being diverted into the lake to help replenish water levels, and a potable water source has also been connected to support refilling.

 The Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks (BCRP) is working to develop a long-term, sustainable plan to maintain Druid Lake as a beloved recreational space.

Throughout DPW’s work on the underground tank project, DPW’s Community Engagement Team has provided consistent public updates through quarterly public meetings and monthly neighborhood briefings, keeping residents informed every step of the way.