Fort Ward in Alexandria Receives Money to Complete Management Plan

Alexandria City Council authorized Tuesday the release of $110,000 in contingent reserves to fund the completion of a management plan for Fort Ward Park and Museum.

The Fort Ward Advisory Group developed a scope for the management plan last year. The advisory group has been working to protect graves, manage stormwater runoff and recreation use, enhance the visitor experience and promote historic and cultural resources.

Local firm Lardner/Klein, along with includes Heritage Strategies, Inc., and John Milner Associates, was recently selected to complete the plan based on the team’s experience with similar work at Rappahannock Station, Appomattox Courthouse and other places. 

The firm will initiate a public planning process, working with the advisory group, with the new funding.

“In terms of archeology, water and flooding issues … recommendations will be coming forward for council’s future consideration,” Mayor Bill Euille said.

Heritage Strategies brings an expertise in preservation, while John Milner Associates has experience managing and preserving archaeological resources—including work at Freedmen’s Cemetery Memorial and the Virginia Theological Seminary.