The Small Parks Program has been in operation since 1978 and is currently administered by the Park and Recreation Commission. Small parks projects funded in the past have included:

• Installation of landscaping and/or fencing in an existing park or County-owned area.
• Installation of water sources to maintain landscaping.
• Installation of wood chip paths and signs.
• Installation of planting beds and bird houses.
• Improvement of an existing tot lot.
• Addition of environmental signs to an existing park.
• Addition of park benches to an existing park.
• Installation of fences around an existing dog exercise area.
• Addition of a kiosk and signs to an existing park.

The criteria the Park and Recreation Commission uses for evaluating Small Parks projects include:

• The project must be on County owned or long-term leased property or privately owned common space for which a public use easement has been granted.
• The project must provide long term service to a substantial number of citizens.
• The project must not duplicate nearby services
• The project area must always be available for general public use.
• The project must conform to the Neighborhood Conservation Plan, if one exists.

In making its recommendations to the County Board, the Commission gives preference to projects which demonstrate the support of local neighborhood groups, offer volunteer assistance with maintenance, attract matching funds, and serve residents who do not have access to the type of facility proposed. The maximum grant which can be applied for is $10,000.

Citizen applications for a Small Parks project are normally due in May. In FY 2002, $60,000 was budgeted for Small Parks Improvements.

This program is a potential source of funding for a variety of beautification efforts identified in the Williamsburg Conservation Plan:

• Birch-Payne Cemetery
• Traffic island at the junction of Little Falls Road, Kensington Street and Yorktown Boulevard
• 28th Street right-of-way between Lexington Street and John Marshall Drive
• Pedestrian path between Kensington and 27th Streets
• John Marshal median: Williamsburg Civic Association has been awarded one Small Parks grant: to install landscaping in the median on John Marshall Drive. However, additional work is needed to preserve the mature trees on the site, install a water outlet, and plant additional beds of woodland and native plants.

Program Guidelines
FY 2004 Small Parks Program Invitation

Return Home