(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, the Bowser Administration, led by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Department of General Services (DGS), joined community members to celebrate the modernization and reopening of the Lorenzo ‘Larry’ Allen Park, located on the 5100 block of Illinois Avenue, NW. The project, which began its design renewal in 2018, revitalized the park that was named in commemoration of ANC 4D04 Commissioner Lorenzo ‘Larry’ Allen. Construction officially began in Fall of 2020 and the modernization concluded on March 31, 2021. Administration officials were joined by Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George as well as representatives from Lee Associates and Columbia Enterprises, Incorporated.
“A park that’s named after someone who meant so much to this community requires special attention. This park is seen on three street sides, but it’s been a hidden gem,” said DGS Director Keith A. Anderson. “Commissioner Lorenzo Allen valued beauty in public spaces, and I believe our teams translated the design and construction plans into a useful, peaceful space that Mr. Allen would support.”
“DPR partnered with the community to address many of their needs with the intent of providing a great triangle park destination for years to come,” said DPR Director Delano Hunter. “We are excited to share this new multiuse green space, in honor of a longtime public servant, with the community.”
Allen was a U.S. Veteran, committed to the District’s Petworth/Brightwood area where he served as commissioner from 1976 to 1992. He particularly cared about the community, its beautification, and the impact on the quality of life of all residents. The Lorenzo Allen Park is a $350,000 project designed by Lee & Associates. Columbia Enterprises, Incorporated was the project’s general contractor.
The park includes a memorial plaque about Commissioner Allen, an upgraded entry sign and sidewalk, granite benches, a bicycle rack, light fixtures, and a community garden.
The triangle park is bounded by 9th Street, Gallatin Street, Hamilton Street, and Illinois Avenue.
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