Update on Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center
Arlington County VA Government sent this bulletin at 05/20/2020 05:34 PM EDT
On Thursday, April 30, the County Board adopted the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Operating Budget, which was revised to reflect significant anticipated revenue losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Several proposed expenditure enhancements in the originally proposed FY 2021 budget were removed, including a majority of the funding needed to open Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center.
The FY 2021 Adopted Budget includes $685,000 in new funding for Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center for maintenance and operations of the expanded outdoor features, the two previously authorized positions, and minimal utilities and maintenance for the interior of the building while it remains closed. This is a savings of $1.9 million from the original FY 2021 Proposed Budget request of $2.6 million to open and operate the facility.
The opening of Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center is delayed until sometime after July 2021, which is the start of the new fiscal year (FY 2022).
The FY 2021 budget will be revisited frequently throughout the fiscal year as the County continues to monitor revenue projections and the long-term impacts of Covid-19.
Next Steps for Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center
The new building and park are scheduled to be complete in early 2021. The good news is that the esplanade, which will be completed at the same time and offer a scenic walk alongside Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary, will open for public use when completed as long as our park system has reopened by that time. If not, access to the new park amenities will coincide when County parks reopen. The event lawn and other outdoor park amenities will be open as well.
We understand that some of you are interested in inquiring about pool space and rentals. We will let you know when we are ready to begin evaluating rentals for the new facility.
Thank you for your understanding as we work together to get through these unprecedented times. We will continue to keep you posted on construction as well as the planned opening date for the center. Please be safe.
