Synthetic Turf Field, More Proposed Renovations For Del Ray Park Subject To Public Hearing

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Proposed renovations like synthetic turf and a concessions stand at Del Ray's largest park will be the focus of a public hearing in May.

Alexandria's Park & Recreation Commission will have a public hearing virtually on Thursday, May 18 at 7 p.m. to discuss proposed renovations for Eugene Simpson Stadium Park. The commission will take public comments and make a recommendation to the Alexandria Planning Commission and City Council. Ahead of the public hearing, a meeting will be held with the Del Ray Citizens Association at 7 p.m. on May 10.

Many of the proposals relate to the Big and Little Simpson baseball fields. The city plans to install new bleachers and dugouts on both fields, synthetic turf at Big Simpson field to address drainage and field condition issues, and regrading of natural turf at Little Simpson field to improve drainage.

A dedicated concessions stand with an adjacent picnic area and additional storage are also proposed for Big Simpson Field.

Other proposed improvements for the park include trees planted as a buffer with native plants along the East Duncan Alleyway, extended hardscape trails in the northeastern section, new handicap-accessible access from East Monroe Avenue to the dog park and rectangular fields, and an expanded parking lot with improved traffic flow. The city government noted several recommendations have already been put in place or are in the process.

According to the city, proposed park renovations are based on community feedback that led to the 2014 Simpson Stadium Park Improvement Plan. Additional improvements for the big and little baseball fields were recommended by the community after the 2014 plan.

The project is currently in the design phase. Final design is anticipated to be complete by January 2024. Construction is expected to take place between fall 2024 and 2025, according to the current timeline.

Residents can view the proposed park design in English or Spanish.

The May 18 public hearing will be available through Zoom or listen-only mode by phone. Register in advance to participate through Zoom. Call in to the meeting by phone at 301-715-8592 with meeting ID 991 7792 3230 and passcode 730284.

Residents can also provide feedback by May 5 through an online survey, by email to bethany.znidersic@alexandriava.gov, or mail to Bethany Znidersic, 1108 Jefferson Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

See the project web page for more information.