We're Making Strides: Creating a New Gateway for Recreation

We Asked for Help and You've Gotten us Halfway

Thanks to generous support from community members, this past weekend we passed the halfway mark in our fundraising efforts to plan for a new accessible water access point along Four Mile Run.  Solely through direct contributions and donations from our Sunday Morning Stretch class, we are able to report progress to the City of Alexandria in meeting our matching grant goal.

Much gratitude to all who have helped us this far! We are encouraged to continue our outreach and fundraising efforts. We certainly have a good deal of work ahead of us, but together we're making great strides.

Improve Access to Four Mile Run

A core part of the Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation's mission is promoting active recreation in nature and enhancing the opportunities for it.

Four Mile Run Water Access Point

This year, we have embarked on a project to establish an ADA-compliant water access point--a floating launch for kayaks, canoes, and other non-motorized watercraft, and a gateway to the nearby nature of Four Mile Run and the Potomac.

We are pleased to have the support of the City of Alexandria, which has committed matching funding of $16,000 toward the first phase of the project: engineering and design.

Nearby Nature in an Urban Setting

One of the best places to see the wondrous ongoing transformation at Four Mile Run is from the water. Paddling along the restored shoreline and tidal wetlands, you'll find ospreys fishing from above and catch the splash of turtles diving in as you approach. Nearby nature that ought to be accessible for all to experience.

Challenge & Opportunity

Lower Four Mile Run is a tidal waterway that is confined within a flood control channel, and thus the project is complex in terms of engineering constraints and permitting. At the same time, the location on the east side of Four Mile Run Park adds vibrancy to an underutilized area of parkland, and it ensures that people of all abilities are able to access the water safely to paddle, fish, and experience this treasure of urban nature.

Be Part of the Transformation

Help make the water access point a reality. Your tax-deductible donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar. And if your employer provides matching for your charitable giving, your dollar goes even farther!