Some potential upgrades are on the horizon for Alabama Drive Park in Herndon, including an overhaul of its soccer field and playground.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is currently seeking community feedback on a proposed renovation of the approximately 11-acre park, which is located within the Town of Herndon but owned and managed by the county.
As currently conceived, the project would convert the park’s rectangular athletic field (Field #3) from grass to synthetic turf and replace the existing playground with new equipment for both preschool and grades 5-12 children. Drainage improvements are also planned.
In addition, the park authority is considering asphalt repairs for the parking lot and trails, basketball court repairs and a possible restriping to accommodate futsal, and the addition of a picnic shelter and other furnishings.
Whether the FCPA will pursue the second group of proposed renovations depends on how much funding is left after the project’s primary goals are addressed.
“Alabama Drive Park was identified as a project under the 2020 park bond referendum,” FCPA spokesperson Andy Grabel told FFXnow by email. “The project will cost $2,498,000 and be funded by 2016 & 2020 park bond dollars.”
On top of inviting general comments, the park authority is asking community members to weigh in on the basketball courts’ future configuration and which of the funding-dependent renovations should be prioritized.
FCPA staff will be present at Alabama Drive Park for a “Salsa in the Park” celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 2 from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
“Enjoy the festivities while learning more about the proposed plans for Alabama Drive Park and sharing your feedback,” the renovation project page says.
According to Grabel, the Alabama Drive Park project is being fully funded and managed by the park authority, but it will be reviewed by the Town of Herndon, which is responsible for issuing the site permit to allow construction.
The FCPA anticipates starting work at the park in spring 2027.
