On Saturday, April 9, the Fairfax County Park Authority officially opened new diamond fields at McNaughton Park in the Mt. Vernon district. This was the conclusion of a $4.4 million renovation program funded through the 2008 and 2012 Park Bonds.
This was the ribbon cutting on completely renovated fields that have been the home of Woodlawn Little League since the 1960s. The project included the demolition of the four existing fields and the construction of a 90-foot diamond and a 60/70-foot diamond with grass infields along with a 60/70-foot diamond and a 60 foot diamond with skinned infields. Along with the fields, covered dugouts, bullpens, batting cages, bleachers, and fencing were also included.
The ceremony included the Presentation of the Colors by the Fairfax County Public Safety Honor Guard and the singing of the National Anthem by Genevieve Kirk. Mt. Vernon Park Authority board member Linwood Gorham welcomed the crowd of youth players, coaches, and parents who gathered for the ceremony. Mt. Vernon Supervisor Dan Stork and Lee District Supervisor Jeff McKay both offered remarks and support for the value and importance of youth sports.
In addition, Woodlawn Little League President Dennis Dunn spoke. Dave Bowden, Director of the Park Planning and Development Division of the Fairfax County Park Authority and Shawn Bertani, Senior Director of Community Relations for the Washington Nationals spoke as well.
The event concluded with all in attendance being invited to join in the ribbon cutting.
Here are pictures from the Park Authority’s official Flickr account.
