Mayor Bowser Breaks Ground on Modernization of Jelleff Recreation Center in Ward 2

(Washington, DC) - Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser joined the DC Department of General Services (DGS), DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), District leaders, and community members to break ground on the $28 million modernization of the Jelleff Recreation Center in Ward 2. The project will replace the existing facility with a modern, accessible recreation center designed to serve residents, continuing Jelleff's longstanding role as a neighborhood gathering place.

"For generations, Jelleff Recreation Center has been a part of this community, bringing together families across historic Georgetown through youth programming and recreational activities," said Mayor Bowser. "We are proud to preserve that legacy while modernizing the facility to meet the needs of the community today."

Jelleff Recreation Center serves as a public recreation center and is home to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington in the historic Georgetown neighborhood. Named in honor of Frank R. Jelleff, a longtime supporter and leader of the Boys Club of Washington, the center has played a significant role in serving generations of families for almost 70 years. During construction, the Boys & Girls Club has temporarily relocated its programming to the Fillmore School until the new facility is completed.

The new recreation campus will offer 19,500 square feet of modernized indoor and outdoor amenities, including a new gymnasium, fitness room, multipurpose spaces, kitchen, game room, and activity center. Residents will also enjoy a refinished pool with an expanded pool deck.

Additionally, the recreation center will incorporate sustainable design features, including a green roof, geothermal system, and energy-efficient lighting. Jelleff will support the District's net-zero energy goals and will be solar ready and target LEED Silver certification.

"At DGS, we are focused on making sure District investments create opportunities beyond the projects themselves," said DGS Director Delano Hunter. "That means giving local businesses the opportunity to compete while creating pathways for DC residents to help build and improve the communities they call home."

"Jelleff has been part of this community for generations, creating opportunities for children and families to learn, grow, and connect," said DPR Director Thennie Freeman. "Today, we're building on that legacy and investing in the future of this community. This groundbreaking represents more than a new facility. It represents our commitment to creating welcoming spaces where young people can thrive, families can connect, and generations to come can make memories of their own."

This groundbreaking marks another milestone in Mayor Bowser's continued investment in world-class recreational facilities. Since 2015, more than $640 million has been invested in modernizing and completing critical repairs at recreation centers citywide, including nearly $45 million in Ward 2. These investments have provided residents with modern, high-quality spaces to learn, play, and connect.

Construction on Jelleff Recreation Center is expected to be completed in summer 2027. The project also reflects the District's commitment to supporting local businesses, with 50% Certified Business Enterprise participation, representing more than $14.8 million in project commitments. For more information on this project, visit dgs.dc.gov.

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