The Fairfax County Park Authority was honored with a Governor’s Environmental Award in recognition of its energy upgrades at the Spring Hill Rec Center on March 24 at the Environment Virginia Symposium in Richmond. The awards program recognizes successful and innovative efforts that improve Virginia's environment.

"This award reinforces that the Park Authority is a trailblazing agency for energy savings and sustainability in Fairfax County and the Commonwealth of Virginia," said Keith Snyder, energy branch manager at the Fairfax County Park Authority. "The energy upgrades at Spring Hill Rec Center not only enhance the experience of rec center patrons but will also continue to produce environmental benefits and cost savings for the community for many years to come."

The Park Authority addressed issues related to the maintenance and performance of key systems at Spring Hill Rec Center, including the chiller, cooling tower and pool units. The project resulted in a 44% building energy reduction and $204,011 operation and maintenance savings over the first operating year. These upgrades helped the Park Authority meet the county’s Operational Energy Strategy goal of 25% energy usage reduction county-wide by 2030, a full five years ahead of schedule.

Since completion, the project has won several awards, including the 2025 U.S. Department of Energy Better Buildings: Better Project Award and Better Practice Award and Virginia Energy Efficiency Council Award.

Spring Hill Rec Center is located at 1239 Spring Hill Road in McLean. For more information, visit the Spring Hill Rec Center website or call 703-827-0989.