Residents of Loudoun will get a chance to approve four parks projects on the Nov. 2 ballot with a single vote. The vote will be an all-or-nothing judgment on the merits of all the projects, which in total will cost $15,430,000.
A vote for the four projects will help ease the strain on Loudoun's current park facilities, according to Cindy Welsh, director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services.
"It's going to absolutely address the population increase and some of the restoration projects will lessen the operating costs," Welsh said.
The most expensive project is the proposed Dulles South Multi-Purpose Facility, at $9 million. The facility would be located in a park in South Riding and contain amenities such as a senior center, an indoor swimming pool and athletic equipment.
Currently, the only similar facility in that area is the Arcola Community Center. The Dulles South Multi-Purpose Facility would "make it more hospitable for people and kids," said Supervisor Stephen Snow (R-Dulles).
"Everyone is just excited about it," Snow added. "Everyone is in anxious anticipation."
OUT IN PURCELLVILLE, two projects could be the recipients of the county's largesse. The renovation of the Loudoun Valley Community Center, at $3,730,000, has become an emotional issue for Purcellville residents, according to Welsh.
"There's a lot of historical value to the community of Purcellville," Welsh said. The Loudoun Valley Community Center, located in an old school, was the first of its kind in the county.
"It is in deep need of repair," said Supervisor Jim Burton (I-Blue Ridge).
Another building near Purcellville could get funds for improvements if the bond referendum is passed — a rebuilt barn that residents hope will become the Franklin Park Performing Arts Center.
The restoration project began as a volunteer-run effort, but ran out of steam and was handed over to the county. Now, voters have the chance to decide if $1.4 million will be spent to design, construct and equip the center.
"It's just sitting there going to waste," Burton said. "It needs to be finished. Everyone in Loudoun will be able to enjoy it once it's finished."
The last project on line for the vote is the purchase of land for Lovettsville Park, at $1.3 million. The park would be located across the street from the Lovettsville Community Center. Currently, the land is slated for development.
"Not only will it preserve the park land, it will be eliminate the possibility of development," Welsh said.