WASHINGTON — The Rosedale Recreation Center is a staple for many children and families in its Northeast neighborhood. However, the playground, which was rebuilt in 2013, is not what it once was.
Rosedale's ANC Commissioner, Marc Friend, told WUSA9 he's been pushing for a new rec center and playground. Friend said the gym's roof is leaking, the basketball court needs repairs, equipment is vandalized, and there's just not enough room or services for everyone.
"So many kids come in and out of this rec center, and we really need the physical structure to support the need," Friend explained
Coach Tay Herndon told WUSA9 he grew up in the Rosedale neighborhood. He now volunteers there and coaches. He says the repairs and an expansion would give everyone a chance to play.
"A 16-year-old kid isn't trying to do the same thing as a 5-year-old. We have to provide those services to keep them here. Instead of in the streets, in harm's way, doing something they shouldn't be doing," Herndon said.
Friend says he has proposed a plan to rebuild a new rec center. It would be a $40 million project over two years. It would cover repairs and expand programs and services for children and teens. However, getting the funding has been challenging.
Friend told WUSA9 that a new library has been approved but it won't be complete until 2031. He is still advocating for a new rec center and a playground.
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