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Meeting Minutes from March 16, 2006

We kicked off around 6:30 pm at Mocha Hut on U Street with neighbors and their little ones in tow.  It was a great up-start to what is surely to be a successful effort in getting Harrison Recreation Center (HRC) to function at its fullest potential.

We started off with a quick review of the history and current status of HRC and the Friends of Harrison Recreation Center (FoHRC). HRC is valued greatly in the neighborhood as it is some of the last significant greenspace in the neighborhood, and is currently owned and run by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR).  HRC is used by the surrounding schools as a playground throughout the day, which limits certain changes.

We talked about our ideas for the space both short term and long term.  Goals and ideas that we discussed include:

• Obtaining keys for the neighborhood;
• Getting extended hours;
• Rules for park usage (getting some improved signage);
• Provisions for dog use;
• Create a list for long term improvements;
• Fundraising to help pay for capital improvement.  

Fundraising is going to be an integral step to making capital improvements to HRC.  We should consider approaching the developers in the area, such as PN Hoffman, Metropolis, and Donatelli and Klein to see what kind of commitments they have to the beautification of the neighborhood, where their future residents will be living. 

Other options for fundraising are the ANC and MidCity Business Association.  There is a lot of funding out there and most likely people that are willing to make a contribution, we just have to point them in the right direction.

In terms of an outlet for fundraising, we discussed using the Spring CleanUp to draw attention to HRC.  We could use HRC as a kick-off stop and invite those who might be interested in contributing.  We are currently looking at dates in early to mid May, most likely the 13th. 

If you are interested in helping out or contributing ideas, please Laura Bridge at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  

Thanks so much, Laura