For years, the fate of Lake Accotink was explored on slide shows in the cafeteria of a few surrounding schools and it felt as if it was always the lake supporters vs. the county budget minders hashing things out. The sediments were taking their toll and to save the lake completely, it would take millions of dollars, so they are at a compromise for a smaller lake in Springfield. Not all are happy with that resolution.

The plan will be discussed on June 6, a day that will live in infamy in another cafeteria meeting at Kings Glen Elementary School. 

“Save the lake as it is. It is a treasure among the suburban sprawl,” said Mike Merrigan on the social media page.

At the upcoming open house meeting, attendees will learn about the dam assessment, receive updates on the study’s progress, and share feedback. Following the meeting, information and materials shared at the open house will be posted on the public website. Supporters of the lake are hoping things will improve, so they want to gain momentum at the meeting. "Don't let an apathetic turn out lead decision-makers to assume Lake Accotink doesn't matter," read the event ad on social media.

Years ago the smaller lake compromise prevailed, and on Jan. 23, 2024, former Supervisor Walkinshaw (D-Braddock) expressed the compromise. “This morning, the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to support my motion to advance the smaller lake option at Lake Accotink Park. The smaller lake option was a key finding developed by the Task Force on the Future of Lake Accotink and meets the community's desire to preserve the lake sustainably,” he wrote on social media back then.

In two years after that statement, things really haven’t changed. Well, Walkinshaw is now Congressman. 

The Smaller Lake Accotink Preservation Feasibility Study aimed to better understand the conditions within Accotink Creek and Lake Accotink, while exploring the best methods for preserving a 20-to-40-acre lake at a depth of 4-to-8 feet, said a statement on the “Smaller Lake Accotink,” website.

For those not attending the meeting, there is a place on the website to share opinions, savelakeaccotink.org:

Share Your Thoughts

We want to hear from you. What matters most to you about the future of Lake Accotink? Email editors@connectionnewspapers.com

June 6 Open House

 Kings Glen Elementary. 3-5 PM

5401 Danbury Forest Drive

Springfield, VA 22152