News & Insights
Photo courtesy of: Greg Land
New 15K sq. foot facility expands access to recreation, wellness, and community space in the nation’s capital
A crowd of community members, families, and city officials gathered in Southeast Washington, DC on Feb. 28 to celebrate the opening of the new Anacostia Recreation Center at Ketcham, a project years in the making and a milestone for the neighborhood. Far from the halls of federal buildings and national headlines, the moment reflected a different side of Washington, one rooted in neighborhoods, families, and everyday community life.
The 15,000 square foot facility, delivered by the DC Department of General Services in partnership with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, represents a significant investment in public space and community well-being in Washington, DC’s Anacostia neighborhood.
Inside, the center is designed to be active and adaptable. A full gymnasium anchors the space, complemented by fitness rooms, multipurpose areas, a kitchen, and a tech lounge. Outdoors, residents will find covered seating, a new playground, and a walking and running path, creating a campus that supports everything from youth programming to everyday recreation.
Beyond its physical features, the center is intended to serve as a gathering place and a resource for residents of all ages, supporting health, connection, and opportunity in a part of the city that continues to see renewed public investment. It is a reminder that Washington’s story is not only shaped by policy and politics, but by the strength and vitality of its local communities.
Brailsford and Dunlavey served as project support on the initiative, contributing to the delivery of a modern, community centered facility aligned with the city’s broader goals for equitable access to recreation and high quality public amenities.
“We are incredibly proud to have been part of this transformational project,” said B&D Vice President Jeff Bonvechio. “The new Anacostia Recreation Center will be an important community asset and a space that will serve residents and families for years to come.”
As the doors open, the Anacostia Recreation Center stands not just as a new building, but as a reflection of Washington, DC as a city of neighborhoods, where investments in community infrastructure help shape stronger, more connected places to live.
