Potomac Yard Park
Potomac Yard Park Map
About Potomac Yard Park in Alexandria
Potomac Yard Park is a 24-acre linear urban park located in Alexandria, Virginia. The park, which opened on December 14, 2013, was designed and constructed through a public-private partnership between the City of Alexandria and Pulte Homes. It serves as a regional amenity, offering a mix of active, passive, and social uses for residents and visitors alike.
The park's design incorporates elements that pay homage to the area's rich history as a former rail yard. A series of seven interpretive signs have been installed throughout the park, providing visitors with sequential information about the history of Potomac Yard, from Virginia's first highways to the area's transition into its current form.
One of the park's notable features is its interactive fountain, situated between two playgrounds. The fountain boasts thirty-six water jets, including twelve laminar jets that create streams of water between two troughs. The fountain is equipped with lighting effects for nighttime operation, adding to the park's visual appeal after dark.
Potomac Yard Park plays a crucial role in improving connectivity in the area. It provides the missing link to create a continuous off-street trail from Braddock Road to Four Mile Run, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist mobility. The park's multi-use trail is part of the larger Potomac Yard Trail network, which has been recognized for its linkages to regional trail systems, neighborhoods, and transit connections.
The park is designed with sustainability in mind. The interactive fountain, for instance, supports Alexandria's Eco-City Initiative by treating and recycling water to reduce overall water consumption. This approach aligns with the city's broader environmental goals.
Potomac Yard Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with the interactive fountain operating seasonally from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the warmer months. The park's location and amenities make it a popular destination for families, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful outdoor space within an urban setting.
