Media Contact Only:  Bryan Martin Firvida, (202) 673-7662

(Washington, DC) – The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will begin construction of a new 30-foot high barrier net along the perimeter of the outfield fencing of the baseball field at Guy Mason Recreation Center, 3600 Calvert St., NW, on May 19, 2008.  The new barrier net will replace and expand the temporary netting that has been in place and help improve the safety of park patrons from foul and long-hit balls from the baseball field. 

The new 30-foot high barrier net along the perimeter of the outfield will be constructed of 6 feet of black chain link fence, topped with 24 feet of high-strength black nylon barrier net.  The new barrier net system will be supported by 6 inch diameter steel poles set into 5 foot concrete footings.

Fields and park areas at Guy Mason will remain open for use during the project as construction will take place during the day and has been scheduled to minimize disruptions to scheduled games and activities.  Heavy equipment will on-site during the project and safety barriers will be installed to identify work areas.  Park patrons should exercise caution when moving throughout the park during the duration of the project.

The playground will also remain open during construction, but patrons should exercise caution and be mindful of hit balls from the baseball field, as the temporary barrier net will be removed during construction of the new barrier net.

The fenced-in park area between the baseball field’s right field fencing and parking lot will be closed from May 19 to May 31, 2008 to accommodate construction. 

The project is scheduled to be completed in late June 2008.