Mayor Bowser Breaks Ground on the $19 Million Modernization of Upshur Recreation Center and Outdoor Pool House

(Washington, DC) - Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser joined the DC Department of General Services (DGS), the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), and the Ward 4 community to break ground on the modernization of Upshur Recreation Center and pool house. This groundbreaking marks the latest milestone in the Bowser Administration's efforts to deliver modern, world-class recreation facilities in all eight wards.

"It takes investment and work to stay the #1 ranked park system in the country for six straight years," said Mayor Bowser. "Over these past 12 years, we have delivered modern and accessible recreation centers, senior centers, aquatic centers, spray parks, and playgrounds across all eight wards and now we're on our way to a world-class facility here at Upshur."

The $19 million project will transform the existing facility, originally built in 1958, expanding the recreation center and pool house from approximately 6,500 square feet to 9,500 square feet. The modernized, energy-efficient campus will create a more connected and accessible recreational experience by bringing the recreation center and aquatic facilities together into one cohesive space. The new recreation center will include an indoor half gymnasium, multi-purpose room, technology area and open lobby. The outdoor improvements will include a renovated pool house with new locker rooms, a splash pad, new playground, full-sized basketball court, and picnic areas. This project will also enhance ADA accessibility throughout the recreation center and surrounding park.

"We are excited to be transforming Upshur Recreation Center from a tiny field house to a modern recreation facility with an accessible campus where families can move seamlessly from the recreation center to the pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas," said DGS Director Delano Hunter. "We know how much this facility means to the community, especially as home to one of the busiest outdoor pools in the city, and we are proud to help deliver a world-class recreational space that reflects the needs of the residents who use it every day."

Since 2015, the Bowser Administration has spent more than $640 million in recreation center projects across the city, with $44 million dedicated to Ward 4 recreation centers, with an additional $27 million planned for current and future Ward 4 projects.

"DPR has held the title of the number one park system in America for six consecutive years," said DPR Director Thennie Freeman. "It is because of continued investments such as these by the Bowser Administration that we will remain at the forefront of connectivity, community, health, wellness, and opportunity for residents to explore and enjoy this amenity that they love."

Construction on Upshur Recreation Center is expected to be completed in Spring 2028. The project includes 47% participation by Certified Business Enterprises, representing more than $9 million in contracts, and is subject to the District's First Source law to ensure District residents benefit from construction jobs and workforce opportunities. For more information on this project, visit dgs.dc.gov.

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