Washington Park

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Booker T. Washington Park (often, and historically, Washington Park) is a heavily used Charlottesville park.

History

It sits on land deeded to the city in 1926 by Paul Goodloe McIntire to be used as a public park and playground.

During the 2001 African-American Cultural Arts Festival, held annually in the park, the park was renamed and re-dedicated. Originally known as Washington Park, the park was renamed Booker T. Washington Park. Washington was a close friend of Charlottesville educator Benjamin Tonsler, whom he met while in college.

Amenities

The park contains 9.25 acres, and a lighted outdoor pool with a wading area and bath house, three basketball courts (one lit), a recreation building with restrooms, and a playground area. A hill within the park drops to a level plain with a regulation softball field, basketball courts, a multi-use field, and picnic shelters.

The playground and picnic shelter were given to the city by the Dave Matthews Band. The drainage, seeding and grading for the third phase of the Washington Park renovations were funded by a generous grant by the Perry Foundation.


Ambox notice.png This article documents a current event. Information may change rapidly as the event progresses.

Slide replacement

Council has been asked to spend $500K for maintenance at Washington Park pool. The pool was last renovated in the late 1990’s, according to parks director Brian Daly. The existing water slide has been deemed as unsafe[1].


Bog garden

A wooden boardwalk, including a ramp for handicap access, have been added to make Washington Park's bog garden more accessible. Bog plants have survived remarkably well in spite of this season's drought. New plants have been added including both native and non-native bog plant varieties. Future plans include permanent plant labeling, educational brochure and bog garden walks to educate and involve the public in our unique micro-habitat.

References

  1. Charlottesville City Council, Agenda, May 3, 2010. Department of Parks and Recreation. Washington Park Pool Repairs - $500,000. By Brian Daly. 30 Apr. 2010. Web. 30 Apr. 2010. <http://charlottesville.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=16277>.

External links

Washington Park on City's website