Columbia Association breaks ground on permanent bandshell at the Lakefront
COLUMBIA, MD. – Columbia Association (CA) officially broke ground this morning on a new permanent bandshell at the Columbia Association Lakefront, marking an exciting new chapter for accessible arts in the community.
The state-of-the-art structure – which will be called the Columbia Association Lakefront Bandshell – will replace the temporary canopy that has long provided cover for community events and performances, elevating the free Lakefront programming experience for thousands of visitors.
Rendered image of the new Columbia Association Lakefront bandshell upon completion.
“Columbia’s long-standing commitment to the arts is real, and the Lakefront deserves a proper bandshell,” said State Senator Guy Guzzone. “In Howard County, we make a lot of statements about what matters to us, and this project is another clear statement of how deeply we value the arts.”
“The Lakefront is truly the heart of our community, and it’s incredibly exciting to soon have a bandshell that reflects the beauty of this place, the quality of the artists who perform here and the importance of the arts to our community,” said Merriweather Arts & Culture Center Executive Director Ian Kennedy.
Construction is slated to begin in November 2025, with completion expected in late spring 2026. Columbia Association is funding the project with generous backing from a State Legislative Bond Bill sponsored by the Howard County Delegation.
The groundbreaking ceremony included remarks from Columbia Association leaders, state officials and community members, symbolizing the start of a project that will enrich the cultural fabric of Columbia for years to come.
“When it comes to Columbia, it’s the people that make this community so special. But it’s places like this that give us a reason to come together – spaces that bring neighbors side by side and build connection,” said State Senator Clarence Lam. “That’s the true spirit of Columbia. Our delegation was proud to support this bandshell with $750,000 in state funding.”
“This bandshell represents the power of partnership – CA and the State working together – to enhance not just Columbia, but the entire region,” said Columbia Association Vice President of Community Operations Jeremy Scharfenberg. “With this new bandshell, the Lakefront will realize its full potential as a place for performances, community gatherings and shared experiences.”
“At Columbia Association, we are starting to plan for Columbia’s next 57 years. We’re looking at what facilities and amenities the next generation of Columbians will build their community and memories around. This bandshell is just the beginning,” said Columbia Association President/CEO Shawn MacInnes. “So as we break ground today, we’re doing more than starting construction – we’re planting the seeds for decades of community connection.”
The bandshell is just one part of CA’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Columbia Association Lakefront experience, with several additional improvement projects underway this fall and winter. Learn more at ColumbiaAssociation.org/CAlakefront.
About Columbia Association (CA):
CA is and has always been here to enhance the quality of life in Columbia. We are committed to the founding goals of this unique and diverse community: stewardship, wellness and inclusion. To achieve this, CA owns and manages a wide array of spaces, facilities and programs that foster authentic connection. We hope you’ll find your own way to engage with us and work toward an even brighter future. Visit ColumbiaAssociation.org for more information. Together, #WeAreColumbia.
