The Fairfax County Park Authority Board voted to approve a Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program grant totaling $10,084.47 on Dec. 10, to support improvements at the Westgrove Park off-leash dog area. The total estimated cost for this improvement project is $20,168.94.
The Westgrove Pumphouse Association for Canine Kindness (Westgrove P.A.C.K.) sought to enhance the off-leash dog area at Westgrove Park through the installation of ADA compliant engineered wood fiber surfacing and the addition of accessible picnic tables. Since its establishment as an interim-use off-leash dog area in 2012 and designation as a permanent use in the Westgrove Park Master Plan approved in 2013, the dog park has experienced heavy use, resulting in surfacing challenges.
The project will install engineered wood fiber surfacing at the north end of the dog park, providing improved accessibility, maintainability and aesthetics compared to existing conditions. Engineered wood fiber also supports the Park Authority’s goals for universal accessibility, unlike grass or bare soil, which has been unable to withstand high levels of use. In addition, the project includes the installation of two accessible picnic tables, enhancing comfort and usability for park visitors.
The total project cost of $20,168.94 will be shared equally between Westgrove P.A.C.K. and the Park Authority through the Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program. The project will be managed by staff from the Park Operations and Development Divisions, with maintenance and repair responsibilities provided by Westgrove P.A.C.K., as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Park Authority and the organization. Project completion is anticipated by spring 2026.
Westgrove Park is located at 6801 Fort Hunt Road in Alexandria in the Mount Vernon District.
The Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program encourages public-private partnerships that improve Fairfax County parks and park facilities. Since 1999, the program has awarded approximately $2.2 million in grants for projects valued at more than $16.6 million. Grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to the maximum of $20,000 have funded projects such as trail improvements, construction of gazebos and shelters and park and athletic field enhancements.
For more information or to apply for a matching grant, visit the Mastenbrook Grants website, or call 703-324-8740. Applications are available on the Mastenbrook Grants website.