Eugene Simpson Stadium Park Could Be Renovated, Residents Can Comment To City Officials

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Major renovations could be on the horizon for Eugene Simpson Stadium Park, a popular park for recreational activities in Alexandria's Del Ray neighborhood.

The City of Alexandria's Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities and the Department of Project Implementation are proposing renovations to the park. The city says the proposal is 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.

For Big and Little Simpson baseball fields, the city plans to install new bleachers and dugouts. Synthetic turf is proposed at Big Simpson field to address drainage and field condition issues, while regrading of natural turf is proposed 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 possible park improvements 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.

According to the city, several recommendations have already been put in place or are in the process.

The proposed park design can be viewed in English or Spanish.

The city is seeking public comment on the proposed park renovation plan. 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.

A community meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26, at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park, 426 E. Monroe Ave. The project team will present the proposed renovation plan for the park and will take questions.

In the case of inclement weather, the meeting will be held next door at YMCA Alexandria, 420 E. Monroe Ave.

A pop-up event is also planned at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park Dog from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on April 19.

An online survey is also open and comments may be emailed to bethany.znidersic@alexandriava.gov through May 5.

Visit the project web page for updates.