In November 2013, the Waterfront Partnership published “Inner Harbor 2.0”, a master plan intended to provide a fresh and dynamic vision for the future of the Inner Harbor.  One aspect of the plan is to redevelop Rash Field, home of Baltimore Beach Volleyball, to include a one-level underground parking garage and above-ground green space.  The redevelopment would eliminate the seven sand volleyball courts that have been utilized by the leagues for over a decade.  The courts currently attract over 2,500 participants a week, seven days a week, and generate a substantial amount of business for the local shops and restaurants that surround the courts.  

The majority of league participants are residents of Baltimore City and encompass everyone from recreational to competitive players.  These young professionals flock to the courts eight months of the year, and the exponential growth of Baltimore Beach volleyball has gone hand in hand with the influx of graduates and young families to Baltimore.

The sand courts are truly a unique attraction for residents and one of the only parts of the Inner Harbor set aside for those who call Baltimore home.  Whatever the fate of Rash Field, we urge the Mayor to commit to preserving the Baltimore Beach volleyball courts in future plans for the Inner Harbor.