The redevelopment of the Joseph Willard Health Center and Sherwood Community Center sites is progressing toward the construction phase. Staff will update the community on the final design concept on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 9 a.m. during a community meeting at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center.
This joint county and city project aims to transform the downtown Fairfax location into a single destination for health, wellness, fitness, childcare and performing arts. The new innovative campus will collocate health programs, early childhood education, senior services and gym and fitness facilities, creating a state-of-the-art community hub designed to serve residents of all ages. With a focus on comprehensive health and wellness, this development will provide a blend of resources to meet the community’s needs.
Community Engagement Drives Project Design
From the project’s outset, Fairfax City and Fairfax County worked closely with community members and stakeholders, engaging them in the planning process even before the initial concepts were developed. Project leaders hosted several meetings with key stakeholder groups, conducted five virtual community meetings and organized three in-person open house events. Additionally, the city’s Engage Fairfax site served as a platform for residents to share feedback, and many responded with insightful contributions that helped shape the campus design.
The project team acknowledges the valuable input received and has actively addressed community concerns throughout these engagements, integrating suggestions into the planning stages. Thanks to this collaborative approach, the project is now in the final design phase, with construction anticipated to start in early 2026.
Sustainability and Green Design Goals
To align with Fairfax’s sustainability goals, the new campus will incorporate green building features aimed at achieving LEED Gold certification and net-zero energy performance. The facility will be all-electric, using advanced energy-efficient systems and rooftop solar photovoltaic panels to reduce environmental impact. Plans also include thoughtfully designed interior spaces for art displays, outdoor playgrounds for the childcare programs and a rooftop recreational area with bocce ball courts for the senior center.
For more information about this project and to stay informed on upcoming community events, visit the project page online.
Meeting Information
Date: Saturday, Nov. 16
Time: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. (slide show presentation by the architect is scheduled for 9:30 a.m.)
Location: Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Blenheim Blvd, Fairfax
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