The Department of Public Works recently provided an update to the Association on the North Quincy Street extension project. This Spring, Arlington County completed acquisition of the properties required for the right-of-way. The first phase of demolition, which includes asbestos removal and lead abatement work on the former C&P building, will be completed by the end of July. The second phase of abatement and demolition work, which includes the former Arlington Forest Service Center building, a small American Service Center-owned building, and 4007, 4009, 4011 Fifth Road North (Building 12 of the Buckingham Apartment complex) will begin July 29 and is scheduled to be completed by November. The construction contract is currently being advertised. Work on the watermain and other utilities is expected to begin in Fall of 1996 and roadway construction to be completed in the Spring of 1997.
Recently, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Resources contacted the Association to inform our community and members of the need to remove the playground equipment located at the Arlington Arts Center. According to their letter, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Resources conducts routine safety inspections of playgrounds. Equipment at the Arlington Arts Center playground is being removed for safety considerations. Some pieces are being removed immediately and the remaining will be removed in the course of the next month.
The site is scheduled for a playground renovation to be installed in late winter or spring of 1997. Planning for the playground which is a community involvement process will begin in the fall. The civic association will be contacted in early fall 1996 and interested members will be encouraged to participate in the design process. Please contact Laura Lazour, Countywide Recreation Services Supervisor, at (703) 358-4756 or (703) 358-5920 if you have any questions.