Public invited to experience a ‘pop-up park’ during the Taste of Annandale

A plan for a new Annandale park. [OCR]

What kind of park/civic space would you like to see in Annandale?

Fairfax County’s Office of Community Revitalization is seeking input from the public on a new park space planned for a county-owned area at 7200 Columbia Pike outside the ACCA Child Development Center.

As part of this initiative, OCR is setting up a second “demonstration park” in that location during the Taste of Annandale on Saturday, Oct. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Visitors are invited to experience a variety of family-friendly activities and games, win prizes, see draft design concepts for the park/civic space, and share insights about the proposal.

The children’s entertainment program at the Taste of Annandale (puppet shows, songs, stories, and more) will be held at the ACCA Child Development Center.

The public is also invited to take an online survey about the park proposal. The survey will be available Oct. 13-Nov. 13 on the OCR website.

The proposed space would consist of a dedicated community gathering area that could also be expanded into the nearby parking lot for “pop-up” programs and special events during weekends or evenings.

OCR’s first demonstration park for Annandale was held in June. People who participated in that event and responded to an online survey said their priorities for a new park include a community gathering space, a place where people of all ages can hang out, a family-friendly space, a place to show community pride, and a place that is safe, fun, and free of litter.

Among the activities people said they want: cultural performances, fitness activities and games, a marketplace, and a place to relax and meet friends.

After reviewing the public comments, OCR will complete a conceptual design. The park is expected to open next summer.