Friends of Bowie Park told the Fairview Board of Commissioners on May 15 that recent construction activity at the Bowie Meadows development has visibly increased silt in Lake Bird and Lake Anna and asked the city to consider testing, remediation and grant funding.

Why it matters: The group’s concerns involve potential impacts to park waterways, wildlife and recreation areas. The board asked staff to assemble engineering options and cost estimates for repairs to trail crossings and the perimeter‑trail bridge.

Eileen Brogan, speaking for Friends of Bowie Park, said observers see a change in water clarity in the park lakes and described the appearance: “It looks pretty much like coffee,” she said. Brogan asked whether the city could test the lakes for siltation or consider hiring an environmental engineer and said Friends of Bowie Park would look for grant support to fund testing or work.

Tom Doherty said park staff and consultants are working on engineering for the perimeter‑trail bridge; he said the same consultant doing work on the historical village is evaluating whether a pedestrian bridge or a lower‑water crossing with culverts would be the safest and most durable option. Doherty said the draft budget includes approximately $100,000 from bond proceeds for the Buoy Park perimeter‑trail bridge; staff will return to the board with options and recommendations.

Brogan also noted her group’s interest in a bridge design estimate and in obtaining the cost information needed to pursue grants. Staff encouraged the Friends to assist with fundraising and noted that Friends‑led grant proposals have been used for some park projects in the past.

Next steps: Staff will develop engineering options and cost estimates for the perimeter‑trail crossing and provide the board with recommendations and any testing options for siltation; Friends of Bowie Park said they will explore grant opportunities and can assist with fundraising or project scoping if needed.