D.C.: DC recreation receives facelift.

Historically the DC Department of Parks and Recreation's (DPR) small, cookie-cutter recreation balls have only been able to serve a handful of residents at a time. But now, because of the limited structure and services of existing centers, DPR is setting a new precedent by developing post-modern, state-of the-art recreation facilities in 14 locations across the city.

DPR, through its Capital Parks Improvement Project, is incorporating private architecture and management expertise into the public sphere by replacing old structures measuring approximately 800 square feet with new structures spanning 14,000 to 20,000 square feet, developed by some of the region's architecture and planning firms.

The centers will feature indoor gymnasiums with maple tumbling wood floors, collegiate-sized indoor and outdoor swimming pools, multipurpose rooms, workout rooms with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, new computer labs, basketball and tennis courts, baseball fields, modern playground equipment, craft rooms, locker rooms with automatic showers and toilets and day care centers. Outside landscaping and decorative fencing will enclose all of the new sites. DPR is developing the innovative structures traditionally only offered for private use to the public. This unprecedented effort underscores the department's belief that the visually and socially stimulating recreation centers are essential in attracting the district's youth.

In managing the new projects, DPR is working with the Jair Lynch Companies, also working on the development of the newly-opened International Spy Museum and The Temple Group, managing the development of the Korean War Memorial in Atlantic City.

For more information, please contact the Communication and Community Affairs office at 202-673-7661.