www.tommywells.org - UPDATE concerning the park at 6th and I Streets SW

We’ve been contacted by many neighbors over the last week complaining about the conditions of the park at 6th and I Streets, SW. We spoke with the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) last week and asked them to address the problems at the park.

Yesterday afternoon, DPR staff reported back. As many of you many know, the park had previously been under the supervision of the National Park Service (NPS) and was part of a land transfer to the District. When that transfer took place however, DPR reports that NPS did not coordinate the maintenance or provide instructions on care for the pond and water features.

DPR has sent inspectors and staff to the park. Last Wednesday May 20th, the grass was cut around 6 pm, and trash was collected. DPR will have inspectors out again today to address problems with the pond and others issues. The agency is also reaching out to NPS officials regarding instructions for pond maintenance and to address standing water issues to prevent mosquitoes.

As our office receives more information on the status of the park we will keep you posted on Tommy’s website, www.TommyWells.org. As always, we can also be reached at 202-724-8072.

Readers have left 7 comments.

(1) Untitled
2009-05-27 16:20:05

Thanks for getting some answers on this. But the answers seem a little lame. DPR obviously dropped the ball, no matter if they blame NPS. If the park was transferred to DPR, then that means that it is their responsibility. Period. Trash clean up, grass cutting, and avoiding rotting water does not need instructions.

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Written by Glenn ()

(2) Untitled
2009-05-27 16:45:06

thank you!!!

Written by Guest User ()

(3) Untitled
2009-05-27 23:11:41

Thanks for looking into this! The park could really liven up the neighborhood, but unfortunately it has been more of an eyesore for over a year...

Written by Guest User ()

(4) Untitled
2009-05-28 09:51:12

That's great! Many thanks - it's a charming little park when it's maintained. And really pretty gross when not.

Written by Guest User ()

(5) Untitled
2009-05-29 07:26:39

As of yesterday, our blog readers at swdcblog.com report that the park's condition remains deplorable: more trash and long grass again, as well as the fetid water in the pond.

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Written by Glenn ()

(6) Untitled
2009-05-29 16:38:14

thank you tommy!!!!!

Written by Guest User ()

(7) Untitled
2009-06-01 15:11:28

As of 5/27 they were supposed to have inspectors address the pond issue, but it still hasnt happened?

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Written by Guest User ()