In 2023, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball called plans for a new $144 million Columbia lakefront library “a giant leap for our future.” Two years later, the project feels more like a cautious shuffle. The state pledged $10 million, and Howard Hughes Corp. agreed to provide land overlooking Lake Kittamaqundi. But the project has stalled amid questions about land ownership, costs, parking, and even whether the lakefront is the right spot.
County Council Chair Liz Walsh hasn’t minced words. “We’re having the same conversation over and over again,” she said, pointing to the need for Howard Hughes to transfer land to the county.
Ball remains optimistic. His 2025 capital budget proposes releasing $5 million in state funds to move planning forward. Meanwhile, the Maryland Economic Development Corp. has been brought in to study parking and financing options. Not everyone is sold on the lakefront location. Some residents and councilmembers have suggested rebuilding at the current Little Patuxent Parkway site. Others argue the public should have had a bigger say.
Library officials and Howard Hughes still champion the lakefront vision. “We want it to be iconic,” said Howard Hughes’ Kristi Smith. Library President Tonya Aikens agrees, calling the lakefront site the best possible space for the community.
The plot thickens… stay tuned.
