Imagine trying to build a new home on old, uncertain ground. Before you think about paint colors or floor plans, the first question is always:

“Is this land safe to build on?”

That’s exactly where we are today with the Clyde Washington Recreation Center — the new facility that will replace the old Dumfries Triangle Rescue Squad building.

And today, we took a major step forward.

The Town of Dumfries has secured a $28,000 Virginia Brownfields Assistance Fund grant to help us understand exactly what’s under the surface before we start rebuilding. When I say this step matters, it truly does — especially on a site like this.

Why This Site Requires Careful Assessment

For decades, the Dumfries Triangle Rescue Squad operated on this property. Emergency response buildings often had:

• Underground fuel tanks
• Stored oils and chemicals
• Older building materials that can contain hazards like asbestos

We know there were old gas tanks and other containers on-site, and they may have left behind contaminants.

Trying to build the new Clyde Washington Recreation Center without checking would be like building a house on sand — sooner or later, the foundation cracks.

This grant allows us to take the responsible, necessary first steps without using local taxpayer dollars.

What This Grant Pays For

1. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment

Think of this as the site’s “medical history.” Experts review old records, walk the property, and identify any signs of contamination or risk.

2. Hazardous Materials Survey

Before we tear the old building down, we need to know what’s inside—materials like asbestos, lead-based products, or outdated insulation that require special handling.

These two assessments tell us:

• What must be removed
• What must be cleaned
• What must be protected
• And what it will take to safely prepare the land for the Clyde Washington Recreation Center

This is how we protect the Town, protect our investment, and protect our families.

Why This Matters for Dumfries

Building a new recreation center isn’t just a construction project — it’s a community legacy.

The Clyde Washington Recreation Center will stand as a place for:

• Youth programs
• Senior activities
• Health and wellness
• Community gatherings
• Learning, recreation, and connection

But before we dream about what’s inside, we must make sure the ground beneath it is safe and ready.

This funding:

• Costs residents nothing
• Helps us avoid costly surprises later
• Moves the project forward with clarity and confidence
• Continues Dumfries’ track record of securing grants instead of using local tax dollars

Momentum matters — and this is real momentum.

What Happens Next

Once the state agreement is finalized, work will begin immediately.

We expect the assessments to be completed by February 2026.

When the results come in, we’ll share them publicly and walk the community through the next steps, including demolition, planning, and engagement sessions to design the Clyde Washington Recreation Center together.

A New Beginning on Sacred Ground

Clyde Washington, Sr. was known for his commitment to community, unity, and service. Naming the recreation center in his honor wasn’t just ceremonial — it was symbolic.

We are building on his legacy.

Transforming the old Rescue Squad site into the Clyde Washington Recreation Center represents Dumfries at its best:

• Honoring our past
• Serving our present
• Preparing for our future

Strong roots create strong fruit — and this is one more root being planted.

Your Turn: Help Shape the Vision

As we move forward, your voice will shape this center.

What do YOU want to see in the Clyde Washington Recreation Center?

• Gym?
• Community rooms?
• After-school programs?
• Senior space?
• Arts and culture?
• Outdoor play areas?

Drop a comment, reply, or share your ideas when the survey goes live.

This is your recreation center — and together, we’ll build something Dumfries can be proud of.

— Mayor Derrick R. Wood