McLean Central Park Concept Plan To Be Discussed At Meeting

UPDATE: The meeting has been rescheduled for March 2 at 7 p.m.

MCLEAN, VA — After concerns were raised about possible new features at McLean Central Park, a revised development concept plan will be presented at a meeting on March 2.

The Fairfax County Park Authority's board had approved a master plan revision for McLean Central Park in 2013. While the master plan presents a long-term vision for the park, a development concept was presented in 2021 after funding became available with a park bond approved in November 2020. Currently, the 28-acre park has various natural spaces, recreation areas including tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, trails and a gazebo.

The development concept presented at a public meeting in 2021 called for new facilities such as an amphitheater, drop-off, fitness area, picnic area, bocce court, game tables, seating areas, disc golf and trail improvements. The amphitheater proposal in particular drew opposition from the McLean Citizens Association. The citizens association questioned the need for an amphitheater amid other nearby performance venues, including the newly-opened Capital One Hall. McLean Central Park already has a gazebo that hosts small-scale events on a seasonal basis.

On the other side, the McLean Community Center supported the amphitheater concept, as it would provide entertainment space beyond the gazebo. The community center is located near the park and hosts the Sunday Summer Concert Series at the park's gazebo.

According to the park authority, public comments accepted through July 2021 were used to develop the revised concept.

"The proposed facilities and improvements in the revised concept plan that will be presented at the upcoming meeting are responsive to the feedback received from the public and stakeholder groups," the park authority stated in a news release.

The March 2 meeting will be held virtually at 7 p.m. Residents can join the meeting online, or listen by calling 855-925-2801 with access code 2881. Pre-registration is not required. The meeting will include a question and comment session. A recording will be available afterward on the project website.

Comments on the revised concept plan will be accepted through April 1 to Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.