Davis Saves $50,000 Funding for Annandale Fields
Congressman Says Federal Grant Will Help Kids Turn Away From Gangs

June 14, 2006

Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Davis (R-VA-11th) took to the House floor today to save $50,000 in proposed federal funding to renovate ball fields at Mason District Park in Annandale.

The $50,000 grant, part of the massive Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2007, was the subject of debate after an Arizona congressman tried to strike the park funding out of the bill. Davis spoke to the importance of this project in improving outdoor recreation options for youth in the area particularly as an alternative to joining gangs.

"One way we can make a positive impact on the gang problem is to give kids an alternative," Davis said. "The ball fields in question are used by youth athletic leagues that can bring kids in, offer them any number of positive experiences, and keep them out of trouble."

"Northern Virginia is rapidly expanding," he said. "Open space is at a premium. With every passing year there are fewer and fewer places for young people to engage in constructive outdoor activity. With every passing day there seem to be more and more ways for them to get into trouble. Organized athletic activity is one of the most effective alternatives to gang activity."

The House rejected the attempt to strip the $50,000 out of the appropriations bill. The money would go to the Fairfax County Park Authority to renovate the fields at Mason District Park.

The Appropriations bill that contains the grant is expected to be approved by the House of Representatives later today.

"If this money saves one kid from a life of crime, it would be worth the small investment," Davis said.