COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT | ARTS & CULTURE | SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Prince George's County begins a new era of fair and sustainable living—celebrating its history through art and embracing architectural innovation.

Published by the Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council

Prince George's County gathered to celebrate a historic milestone — the Ribbon Cutting of a Net Zero Housing development and the opening of a new Pocket Park in the historic community of Fairmount Heights. The event was a joyful gathering of neighbors, local leaders, artists, and advocates, united by pride in a community that has long stood as a symbol of resilience, culture, and unity.

The Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council (PGAHC) played a key role in this celebration, acting both as a witness to the achievement and as a sponsor alongside the Department of Housing and Community Development, Housing Initiative Partnership Inc., LISC DC, and The Capital Market. A highlight of the event was a stunning community mural by artist Cita Sadeli, which will be on permanent display at the new Pocket Park.

This mural activation at the Fairmont Heights Net Zero Energy Homes Pocket Park is part of three community-led public art projects organized by the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council (PGAHC). These projects aim to celebrate the creativity, culture, and shared spirit of the inner-beltway municipalities along the Blue Line Corridor, including the City of Seat Pleasant, the Town of Capitol Heights, and the Town of Fairmount Heights.

A New Standard for Sustainable, Equitable Housing

The ribbon-cutting celebration marked the completion of Prince George's County's newest Net Zero Housing project, a major milestone in sustainable residential development. These Net Zero homes are designed to generate as much energy as they use, helping to cut carbon emissions and lower utility bills for residents. In Fairmount Heights, one of Maryland's oldest African American towns, this project stands for more than just eco-friendly building; it shows a commitment to supporting long-term residents and future generations. County officials and local partners emphasized the importance of creating innovative, energy-efficient housing in a community rich with history. The project aligns with the County's broader goal: that sustainability and fairness go hand in hand.

The Pocket Park: A Community Hub

Alongside the housing ribbon-cutting, the community celebrated the opening of a new Pocket Park — a thoughtfully designed outdoor space intended to serve as a gathering spot for residents of all ages. The park features greenery, seating, and a welcoming environment rooted in community spirit.

At the center of the Pocket Park is its mural — the feature that highlights the Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council's investment.

The Mural: Celebrating Fairmount Heights Through Art

PGAHC is excited to announce funding for a unique mural by renowned artist Cita Sadeli. This vibrant piece of public art is a visual tribute to Fairmount Heights — showcasing the community's rich history, cultural heritage, and enduring spirit through bold colors and imagery.

Artist Cita Sadeli brought purpose and craftsmanship to this project. Drawing on Fairmount Heights' legacy as one of Maryland's first incorporated African American towns, the mural weaves together images that tell the story of its founding, cultural milestones, and the generations of families that have called it home. The result is a piece that is both rooted in history and visually lively — a public artwork set to inspire reflection, spark conversations, and foster pride for years to come.

For PGAHC, this mural demonstrates the power of arts and culture to strengthen community identity — especially during times of change. As Fairmount Heights embraces new, sustainable housing, the mural ensures that the community's past is honored and its story shared, in a place where neighbors meet every day.

"Place-based public art is not decoration — it is documentation. Cita Sadeli's mural ensures that the history and heritage of Fairmount Heights will be seen, remembered, and celebrated by every person who visits this park."

— Rhonda Dallas, CEO and Chief Curator, Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council

The Role of Arts & Humanities in Building Community

PGAHC aims to promote the transformative power of arts and culture throughout Prince George's County. Funding the Fairmount Heights Pocket Park mural reflects our mission: to support artists and projects that strengthen community identity, honor cultural heritage, and make Prince George's County a more lively, expressive, and connected place.

This project also emphasizes that arts and humanities should be involved when communities plan for the future. Sustainable housing, green spaces, and cultural initiatives work together to create neighborhoods where people want to live, stay, and thrive. We thank our County partners, the Fairmount Heights community, and artist Cita Sadeli for helping turn this vision into reality.

Looking Ahead

The ribbon cutting and Pocket Park opening symbolize a new beginning, not an end. For Fairmount Heights, this day signifies a future that is greener, more affordable, and deeply connected to community pride. For Prince George's County, it represents another step toward a model of development that values people, culture, and sustainability.

The Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council looks forward to continuing partnerships with communities across the County to ensure that as neighborhoods grow and change, our arts and cultural heritage always remain a vital part of our lives — on our walls, in our parks, and in our hearts.