“A natural gathering place for the community.” That’s what recreation centers are. Today we explore Woodland Terrace Recreation Center. It stands as a testament to community and recreation in Southeast Washington D.C.
Woodland Terrace Recreation Center offers many amenities. There are ball fields for sports enthusiasts. Play courts invite friendly competition. A computer lab provides access to technology. A playground is available for children. A picnic area allows families to enjoy outdoor meals. Restrooms ensure convenience for all visitors. A fitness center supports healthy lifestyles.
Woodland Terrace is in the small residential and industrial neighborhood named Woodland. This neighborhood lies in Ward 8. Ward 8 is among the poorest and least developed of the city’s wards. Woodland is almost exclusively African American like the neighborhoods around it.
Woodland Terrace itself has a history tied to the development of its surrounding neighborhood. In the 1960s many public housing complexes were built here. One of the first and largest was Woodland Terrace. It has 234 units. It was built on the block bounded by Ainger, Langston, Bruce, and Raynolds Places SE.
Originally intended for poverty-stricken senior citizens it became home to families with children. The construction began in 1962. It was ready for occupancy at the end of 1964.
The Fort Stanton Recreation Center and Avalon Playground are located next to the Anacostia Community Museum. The museum is adjacent to Woodland on Erie Street SE. The District of Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation owns and operates the recreation center. Besides the computer lab, fitness center, gymnasium, and multi-purpose room there is much more on offer. An outdoor pool, playground, basketball courts, baseball diamond, athletic field, and picnic tables are available.
The Woodland Community Center is a small city-owned center. It is located at 2310 Ainger Place SE. It was constructed around 1965. Future D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty held a campaign debate at the Woodland Community Center in 2006.
The Anacostia Community Museum is a constituent museum of the Smithsonian Institution. It stands adjacent to Woodland on Erie Street SE.
Allen Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church is near Woodland. It is a historic African American congregation founded in 1850. President Barack Obama worshipped there on Easter Sunday in 2010.
The amenities at Woodland Terrace Recreation Center create opportunities. Residents can engage in sports, fitness, and learning. It truly serves as a natural gathering place. It enriches the lives of those in the community.
So, as you explore Woodland Terrace Recreation Center remember its role. It is a place for growth and laughter. It is a place for learning and play. It is a place where the community comes together.