24-03-2025
Bowser, DC leaders break ground on new recreation Center, early childhood education center in Fort Lincoln
WASHINGTON () — Mayor Muriel Bowser and leaders across D.C. gathered on Monday to break ground on a historic new recreation center and early childhood education center in Fort Lincoln.
The $49 million Fort Lincoln Campus Improvement Project provides an early learning center, community space and new opportunities for families and people who call the Fort Lincoln neighborhood home.
'Today [March 24] marks a historic moment for our community, as we break ground on a long-awaited project,' said DGS director Delano Hunter. 'The new recreation center and early childhood center represents a significant investment from Mayor Muriel Bowser in our community's infrastructure, designed to provide a state-of-the art facility. As DGS embarks on this construction journey, we remain committed to delivering a high-quality, durable and sustainable facility that will improve lives and serve the needs of our residents for generations to come.'
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The new 44,000-square-foot facility will feature a state-of-the-art recreation center and an early childhood education center. The building will have a full gymnasium with an elevated walking/running track, senior lounge, demonstration kitchen, tech/teen lounge, fitness center and more.
In 2019, Bowser committed to build new early childhood education centers at the sites of former schools. Now, the mayor said this project delivers on her promise.
'This neighborhood has a long history with a lot of people who have never given up on the idea of delivering housing, jobs and retail, and recreation spaces to Fort Lincoln. We're proud to be driving this next stage of progress,' said Bowser.
Officials emphasized the new project is part of the Fort Lincoln Park which has been inaccessible since 2013. The 20-acre park's playground will also be upgraded. The outdoor tennis court will be resurfaced and new play elements will be added to the Old Fort Play area.
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On Monday, leaders also marked the start of construction on City Homes. This is the final phase of the Fort Lincoln New Town Development, which has been underway since the 1970's.
This final phase of the Fort Lincoln New Town Development will have 51 townhomes, including five affordable homes. The full completion is anticipated for 2028.
'At DPR, we could not be more excited about the future programs, events, and memories that will be made on this site by the neighbors in the Fort Lincoln community and Ward 5,' said Department of Parks and Recreation director Thennie Freeman.
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