M-NCPPC Highlighted as National Gold Medal Finalist for Parks and Recreation Excellence
M-NCPPC Recognized Nationally as a Top Four Parks and Recreation Agency
Prince George’s County, MD — October 1, 2026 — The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), serving Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, has been recognized as a 2026 National Gold Medal Finalist by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA).
M-NCPPC was recognized in the Class I category, which recognizes agencies serving populations greater than 400,001. The recognition places M-NCPPC among four finalists nationally, highlighting the Commission’s continued commitment to excellence in parks and recreation, innovation, environmental stewardship, quality programming, and meaningful community engagement.
Established in 1927, M-NCPPC is approaching its centennial in 2027 with nearly a century of service to the residents and communities of Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. The Commission has earned the National Gold Medal six times, in 1973, 1977, 1983, 1984, 2003, and 2015, making M-NCPPC the only six-time National Gold Medal recipient. This year’s finalist recognition adds another chapter to that longstanding legacy and reflects the continued dedication of the people who plan, protect, maintain, program, and invest in parks and recreation opportunities across the two counties.
“M-NCPPC is proud to create spaces and programming that inspire connection, equity, and opportunity for all,” said Chair of M-NCPPC, Artie Harris, Montgomery County Planning Board Chair. “We’re honored to be recognized alongside so many outstanding organizations, and this recognition reflects the dedication of our staff and partners who work every day to make a difference in our community.”
“Being recognized as a National Gold Medal finalist is a tremendous honor for M-NCPPC and the communities we serve,” said Kevin A. Anderson, Chair of the Prince George’s County Planning Board. “It reflects the strength of our parks and recreation system and the impact it has on communities across the region.”
Darius A. Stanton, Director, M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, added: “Being named a National Gold Medal finalist reflects the dedication of our staff and their commitment to serving our communities every day. We are proud of this recognition and remain focused on helping our communities Live More, Play More.”
“Being recognized as a Gold Medal Award finalist is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community partners who provide exceptional programs and facilities,” said Miti Figueredo, Director of Montgomery Parks. “We’re proud to be recognized among the nation’s leading park systems and grateful to everyone who helps make Montgomery Parks a place where our community can thrive.”
The National Gold Medal Finalist designation recognizes M-NCPPC’s continued commitment to excellence in parks and recreation management, including long-range planning, resource management, environmental stewardship, community engagement, and innovative programming. M-NCPPC’s bi-county structure brings together the expertise and resources of Montgomery Parks and the Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County to serve communities across the region.
The 2026 National Gold Medal finalists competed in the Class I category alongside Baltimore City Recreation and Parks, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, and Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation. Baltimore City Recreation and Parks was named the 2026 Class I Grand Plaque recipient during the 2026 National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Annual Conference in Philadelphia.
About the Department
With over 29,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.
