The former parking lot of RFK Stadium has traded tailgaters for playing fields.
With the first phase of Events DC’s 190-acre redevelopment now complete, the Fields at RFK Campus are bringing long-awaited community facilities to the area, while accomplishing something no one thought was possible – successfully bringing the project from conceptual layout to completion in a mere 12 months.
Developer Events DC set out with an ambitious goal to open the fields this summer, in time for DC sports programs to use them. To accomplish the unprecedented schedule, the project team used a design-build approach.
With both design and construction taking place simultaneously, Bohler DC began by helping Events DC and the project team establish an effective permitting strategy. Our team maintained open lines of communication with all project team members and provided a quick turnaround on civil engineering design documents. In remaining flexible with field changes, our team positioned Events DC to maintain forward momentum and fast-track the schedule.
Bohler’s work also included creative grading that ultimately reduced project costs. The design maintained the existing grades within the parking lot and added fill to construct the turf fields on top of the existing asphalt. An underdrain system was added to help mitigate drainage concerns. Our design also incorporated seven bioretention facilities that connect to a subgrade system, preventing runoff from entering the nearby Anacostia River.
The Fields is the first phase of this high-profile redevelopment. The development includes three lighted, artificial turf soccer fields, totaling 217,000 SF of public recreational space, on a 27-acre site of the campus. The project also includes bleacher seating, a picnic area, playground, and a 6,000 SF pavilion with various community amenities.
Additional phases are anticipated for the remainder of the campus redevelopment, which will further revitalize the area and return it to its former glory.