Mayor Opens DC’s First Resilient Recreation Center

Mayor Muriel Bowser toured the new recreation center with ISTUDIO Project Architect Marisa Brown, Project Manager Dan Snook, and Principal Rick Harlan Schneider. Named for its neighborhood native son, the Marvin Gaye Recreation Center is the city’s first center with integrated natural ventilation. Fresh air, daylighting, and energy efficiency are just some of the sustainable features that make this LEED Gold facility a resilient hub in Northeast Washington DC.

On hand to celebrate the ribbon cutting were Gaye’s brother Antwaun Gay, Ward 7 Council Member Vincent Gray, DC Department of Parks + Recreations (DPR) Director Keith Anderson, and DC Department of General Services (DGS) Director Greer Gillis. The recreation center and trail serve DPR’s mission to promote health, conservation, and universal access to parks.

Many thanks to the team at DC DGS and DPR, the design-build contractor MCN Build, and the communities of Ward 7!

Mayor Muriel Bowser: “We are honored to celebrate and honor a DC native who brought so much joy to our world with a fantastic recreation center that will continue bringing joy to our community.”

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Mayor Muriel Bowser: "Today, we cut the ribbon on the new Marvin Gaye Recreation Center in Ward 7, honoring his legacy, and of course, his love for music."

CM Vince Gray: "I'm sure Marvin Gaye would’ve love this majestic center we opened in #Ward7 today, just blocks away from where he grew-up!"

DC DGS: "TODAY: @WeElevateDC joined @MayorBowser , CM @VinceGrayWard7, @DCDPR and the Ward 7 community at the Marvin Gaye Recreation Center Ribbon Cutting."

DC DPR: "#MarvinGayeDay we are getting it on!"