Alexandria’s Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA) is looking for public comment on a plan to overhaul Eugene Simpson Stadium Park (426 E. Monroe Avenue).
RPCA said the community has identified several needs at the park that the new overhaul hopes to fix. Among major changes for the park is a change from natural grass and dirt to astroturf, along with changes like new trails, bleachers and more.
RPCA is hosting a community meeting later this month to go over the planned improvements and field questions from the public.
“Join the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities and the Department of Project Implementation at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park (426 East Monroe Ave) on Wednesday, April 26th at 7 p.m. for a community meeting and open house,” the RPCA said in a release. “The project team will present the proposed renovation plans for Eugene Simpson Stadium Park and will be on hand to take questions from attendees. In case of inclement weather, the meeting will be held at YMCA Alexandria at 420 East Monroe Avenue.”
The plan has been in the works since 2014 but includes an amendment from 2021 with new improvements that came from community feedback.
According to the RPCA website, plan includes extensive improvements:
- Install a planted tree buffer with native vegetation along the E. Duncan Alleyway
- Extend the hardscape trails to the north-eastern section of the park
- Install a new ADA compliant access off E. Monroe to the dog park and rectangular fields
- Install new bleachers at Big and Little Simpson
- Improve the dugouts at Big and Little Simpson
- Install additional storage at Big Simpson
- Install a dedicated concessions stand at Big Simpson
- Install a new passive use and picnic area adjacent to the concession stand
- Improve traffic flow and expand the parking lot
- Install synthetic turf at Big Simpson to address drainage and playability issues
- Re-grade the natural turf field at Little Simpson to address drainage issues
