Project Background

While much historic preservation and adaptive reuse has already occurred on the Workhouse Campus under the partnership of the County and the Workhouse Arts Foundation’s projects & programs, the intent of this Master Plan is to continue the redevelopment to accommodate vibrant, integrated, mixed-use programs that realize the development potential of the campus while maintaining and protecting the site’s historic character, assets, and resources.

Project Description

The project seeks to explore opportunities and create a framework for the future improvements and growth of the county owned 52-acre Workhouse Campus. The overarching vision for the Workhouse Campus is to establish a unique, widely recognized destination of choice, providing dynamic and engaging arts, cultural, educational, and community building experiences with unique economic development opportunities. The campus contains numerous historic buildings formerly used to house and rehabilitate inmates. Certain buildings currently in use on the site have been renovated and operate as the Workhouse Arts Center pursuant to an agreement between the County and Workhouse Arts Foundation, Inc (WAF). The County continues to maintain ownership of the entire campus and, through licensing and leasing agreements, WAF continues operation, management, and programming of the buildings it currently occupies.

Project Location

The project is located at 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, Virginia.

Project Phase

The Basic Scope of Services included Master Planning design consulting services for the Project, during the design phases described below:

• Phase 1: Pre-Planning
• Phase II: Developing the Vision
• Phase III Refining the Vision
• Phase IV: Master Plan Development

Timeline

The Final Master Plan Report was submitted on September 1, 2023.

What to Expect

The overarching vision for the Workhouse Campus is to establish a unique, widely recognized destination of choice, providing dynamic and engaging arts, cultural, educational, and community building experiences with unique economic development opportunities.

After the Master Plan is completed, the County will work with the stakeholders to determine the priorities; funding sources; and the timeline for implementation of the Master Plan.

Project Cost and Funding Source

This Master Plan project was funded through the County’s Capital Improvement Program.

Presentations to the Community

The County and the consultant team held several Public and Stakeholder Charettes during each phase of the Master Plan project.

Workhouse Arts Campus Masterplan Final Report - September 1, 2023

Workhouse Arts Masterplan Study ARB & VDHR Briefing - May 11 to May 12, 2023

Workhouse Arts Masterplan Study - Phase 3 South County Federation Review - April 11, 2023

Community Meeting Presentation - February 15, 2023

Community Meeting Presentation - August 17, 2022

Contact

For more information about the project, please contact project manager, Franklin Roberts, at Franklin.Roberts@fairfaxcounty.gov, Building Design and Construction Division, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.