Walker who broke hand urges Bowie to repair Pelham Park trail; council pledges review

Carol Moore, a frequent walker at Pelham Park, told the Bowie City Council that she suffered a severe fall on the park’s walking trail and required stitches and two surgeries to repair a broken hand. Moore said she previously reported hazardous cracks, potholes and erosion at the trail on Nov. 3 and Jan. 12 and that multiple other walkers and runners have experienced falls and hazards.

"This accident didn't need to occur," Moore said, describing how the trail’s uneven surface and debris caused her injury and arguing the city should prioritize resurfacing and ongoing maintenance. She presented photographs to the council and urged immediate action to protect walkers, runners, school cross-country teams and families who use the trail.

Mayor Pam acknowledged receipt of the pictures, encouraged council members to inspect the trail and said staff would research options and place the matter on the next council agenda for further action. The mayor said closing the trail would be difficult but that council members should view the condition before the next meeting.

Why it matters: a resident reports repeated concerns and a serious injury tied to park maintenance; the council’s response signals the issue will return to the agenda for staff recommendations and potential budget or repair actions.