News Advisory for Immediate Release Wednesday, June 21, 2006 Groundbreaking for Marvin Gaye Park Bicycling and Walking Trail to Be Held Saturday Contact (Media Only): Erik Linden (202) 671-2004 (Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) are teaming up to join community leaders and residents June 24 to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Marvin Gaye Park walking and bicycling trail. Once completed, the trail will be the longest city-managed trail of its kind in the District. The trail (in what was previously known as Watts Branch Park) was first constructed in 1978, based on a plan developed by residents. In recent years, the 1.6-mile trail fell into disrepair. In 2001, DDOT identified the trail for improvements under the federal “Recreational Trails” program. Construction of the new trail is part of a $3.1 million project that includes trail reconstruction, safety and lighting improvements and the installation of two new bridges. Who    Michelle Pourciau, Acting Director, District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Kimberley Flowers, Director, DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Adrian Washington, President & CEO, Anacostia Waterfront Corporation Other guests What Groundbreaking on Marvin Gaye Park Trail When Saturday, June 24, 2006 Kickoff Parade: 10:30 am Groundbreaking Ceremony: Noon Where Parade: Watts Branch Recreation Center 6201 Banks Place, NE Groundbreaking Ceremony: Heritage Green Division Avenue, NE, at Foote Street, NE