Sykesville to start reuse study for cannery building in South Branch Park

Town Manager Joe told the council that the town will begin consultant-led conceptual work this week to study reuse options for the cannery building at South Branch Park.

Background and funding: Joe said the effort is funded from a capital grant awarded roughly two years ago and that the grant totals about $1 million. He said roughly one-third of that amount will pay for conceptual work, engineering and construction documents; the remainder is intended to cover construction costs.

Utilities and likely constraints: Staff told council that sewer service to the cannery site is unlikely to be feasible; options under consideration for restroom and utility needs include composting toilets and hookups for portable facilities. Joe said potable water access appears achievable, but wastewater disposal in a floodplain is a limiting factor that will shape final reuse options.

Next steps and schedule: The town will meet with consultants and a Howard County representative to develop a timeline and scope, and staff said the conceptual phase will produce design options and civil drawings that reflect utilities and site constraints. The council will receive further updates as the study progresses and when construction documents are prepared for procurement.

What was asked: Council members asked whether the study includes civil utilities; staff confirmed that civil drawings and utility assessments are part of the conceptual phase. Officials emphasized that permanent public bathrooms available year-round are unlikely given wastewater constraints, but that the study will evaluate feasible solutions for event use.