Arlington is in the process of designing the Jennie Dean Park at Shirlington/Four Mile Run — and our participation at one of these events is very important. There are groups interested in more ball fields, dog parks, playgrounds, concert spaces, etc. If Tree Stewards show up at just one of these events and share our expertise on why trees are important, why their roots need space, and vote for the importance of natural areas with trees, we can make a difference. More info here and below.

TS Nora Palmatier is on this committee. She says her fellow committee members love trees and want more — but many of them lack the knowledge of what trees need to thrive. The entire event is important, but if your time is limited (and we know it is!) just come down to the Open Planning Studio (runs 3 days) for a half hour to share your knowledge with the park consultants. It really will make a big difference.

Here’s a description of the event and details on the schedule:

Help us Develop a Vision for Four Mile Run Valley
Bring your ideas for the future of the Four Mile Run Valley to a multi-day community visioning workshop on Dec. 2 – 6. Through hands-on design exercises and engaging conversations, learn and share about land uses and urban design; parks, playgrounds, recreational programming and open spaces; the dog park; street design and transportation; stream restoration and environmental improvements; historic and cultural resources; and more! Learn more at arlingtonva.us, search 4MRV visioning workshop.

· Kick-Off Event, Fri., Dec. 2, 7 – 9 p.m. @WETA, 3939 Campbell Avenue, 6th floor

· Hands-on Design Workshop, Sat., Dec. 3, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. @Drew Model School, 3500 23rd Street S

· Open Planning Studio, Sun., Dec. 4 – Tuesday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. –6 p.m., 2700 Quincy Street, 3rd floor

· Closing Open House, Tues., Dec. 6, 7 – 9 p.m.,Drew Model School, 3500 23rd Street S

The overall goal of the Four Mile Run Valley (4MRV) initiative is to develop a comprehensive vision and policy framework and specific strategies for the area through the adoption of a Four Mile Run Area Plan, a Parks Master Plan, and a design for the Nauck Town Square. These plans will help guide public and private investment, including County operations for the long term, along with the preservation and enhancement of natural resource, open spaces, and future development, in a manner compatible with the surrounding area and consistent with the County’s overall policies. Learn more here.