In a significant development for local green spaces, the 11th Street Bridge Park project has received a $15 million grant, completing its $92 million construction budget. This funding comes from the Department of the Interior's Land and Water Conservation Fund's Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program, which supports park projects in underserved communities. The announcement was made by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), and Building Bridges Across the River, according to a recent release by DDOT.
Thennie Freeman, Director of DC DPR, highlighted the park's broader implications, stating, "The 11th Street Bridge Park is so much more than a park, and we're proud it was recognized with this grant as the beacon of hope for a more equitable, inclusive, and connected Washington, DC," as per DDOT. Adjusting their fundraising efforts, Building Bridges is now focusing to assemble a $10 million operations reserve budget for the space's long-term management. The project, set to feature an array of amenities, ranging from a multi-generational playspace to urban agriculture, aims to mitigate environmental risks within Southeast DC. It is a region where disparities have long been deeply rooted, historically painting life expectancy between black and white residents with a difference of nearly 15 years.
DDOT Director, Sharon Kershbaum spoke to the power of infrastructure shaping community dynamics, told DDOT, "Historically, infrastructure has divided our city, but this project is a monumental step demonstrating a physical and metaphoric bridge reconnecting our communities east and west of the Anacostia River." The park will transform obsolete transportation infrastructure into a vibrant public arena, noted for joining the roster of the District's iconic landmarks. Through a harmonious district-nonprofit partnership, the initiative eyes tangible impacts for residents spanning the river's opposing banks for future spans.
The largest DPR has received to date, the ORLP grant is a vital step for urban communities to enhance outdoor recreation spaces. Scott Kratz, Senior Vice President at Building Bridges Across the River & Founding Director of the 11th Street Bridge Park, expressed relief and enthusiasm, "After 12 years of working with the East of the River community, we're thrilled to have secured the funds needed to fully realize residents' vision for the 11th Street Bridge Park," in a statement obtained by DDOT. He reemphasized the project's dedication to community-responsive developments and joyfully anticipated the transition from planning to groundbreaking. The park is expected to open to the public in 2027, with contractor solicitation planned for late 2024.
For more information, design insights, and updates on the upcoming elevated public park, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the District Department of Transportation website.
