Possible changes to Fairfax County Park Authority alcohol policy in sight
In response to an increasing number of requests for alcohol use at park facilities, the Fairfax County Park Authority is moving toward proposing a policy change to the park board in the coming months. The new policy would allow parkgoers the opportunity to serve and enjoy alcohol, only if the park is granted a permit from the park authority. More details on the policy change will come as it develops and can be found on the park authority’s website.
Giant hogweed sightings in Alexandria prompt new safety concerns
Recent giant hogweed sightings in Alexandria have ushered in new safety precautions for locals. Giant hogweed is a tier 1 noxious weed, according to Virginia Tech and Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Noxious Weed list, and can be easily mistaken for cow parsnip, elderberry and other native plants. The plant’s sap, when exposed to skin, can cause severe skin and eye irritation, painful blistering and potential blindness. Locals who think they see giant hogweed are encouraged to take pictures, check online to compare to other plants and then contact Kirsten Ann Conrad, local Virginia Cooperative Extension agent, at 703-228-6400 or file a report online. Do not touch or attempt to remove the plant.
Woodbridge parking lot may become a public park
Prince William Supervisor Ruth Anderson is hoping that a 2.5-acre commuter parking lot in Woodbridge (at the intersection of Minnieville Road and Harbor Drive) will become a park by 2020, as the Prince William Board of Supervisors approved the transformation last year. The park’s design has not yet been developed and no budget has been determined, but so far funds surpass $700,000, thanks in part to a $25,000 donation from Kaiser Permanente.
New party area and trackless train to open at Clemyjontri
Known as one of the most unique parks in the area, Clemyjontri is set to unveil a new picnic and event celebration area, in addition to a trackless train that operates throughout the park. Both features will be accessible following a ribbon cutting ceremony on July 28 at 10 a.m. Representatives from the McLean Community Foundation, Rotary Club of McLean and the Friends of Clemyjontri Park will be in attendance and will be honored for their support of the Fairfax County Park Foundation.
Lubber Run Community Center closes to prepare for renovation
Lubber Run Community Center closed its doors on July 6 to prepare for its renovation process that’s set to end sometime in 2020. After renovations, the center will feature an indoor track, preschool, senior center, gymnasium and fitness center. It will also house rooms that the community can use to host events. Using a design that the local community helped shape, the center will include more green space and make use of sustainable materials and systems, with photovoltaic panels to come after completion.
Select RECenter pools and elevators to close temporarily
In August, pools and spas at Providence, South Run, Spring Hill and Mount Vernon RECenters will be closed for regular maintenance. Affected dates vary by location and can be found on the park authority’s website. RECenter passholders are encouraged to find another location to cool off during this time. All other amenities will remain open.
Fairfax County Park Authority begins implementation of new strategic plan
A new strategic plan for the 2019-2023 fiscal years has been approved by the Fairfax County Park Authority. As part of the plan, the mission and vision of the board has been updated to include new themes of health, equity and inclusion, with the goal of making sure community priorities are met and ensuring that reaccreditation by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies is possible. More details about the plan can be found on the park authority’s website.
