DC Daily: River testing, RFK redevelopment contracts, and a new Ward 8 rec center

1) Waterways: daily E. coli testing starts Monday

The District says it will ramp up bacteria monitoring on the Potomac and Anacostia rivers starting Monday, March 2. The plan is daily E. coli sampling at six regular locations, with results posted online within about 48 hours.

Officials say recent readings are back in the typical range for DC waterways, and the public advisory to avoid contact with the Potomac is expected to be lifted on March 2 if conditions remain stable. The city also emphasized that DC drinking water has not been affected.

2) RFK redevelopment: DC opens the door for local contracts

As demolition and early planning move forward at the RFK Stadium site, the city is encouraging small and local businesses to compete for upcoming contracts tied to the redevelopment. The mayor’s office says the deal for the stadium complex includes a commitment that 40% of spending goes to DC companies.

Near-term work includes studies and project services connected to utilities, roads, stormwater, battery storage analysis and transit planning. Businesses generally need to be certified through the District’s small and local business program to pursue many of the opportunities.

3) Ward 8: ribbon cutting for the new Anacostia Recreation Center at Ketcham

On Saturday, city leaders scheduled a ribbon cutting for the new Anacostia Recreation Center at Ketcham, a 15,000-square-foot facility designed for sports, fitness, classes and community gatherings. Planned features include an indoor gym, fitness room, kitchen, multipurpose rooms and lounge space, plus outdoor upgrades like seating, lighting, a field and paths.

It’s part of the city’s broader push to modernize recreation centers, with a heavy focus on adding and upgrading facilities east of the river.

Sources