Story

The redevelopment of the McMillan Sand Filtration Site represents a significant achievement in both historic preservation and modern community development. As a design-build contractor, Gilbane has transformed this 25-acre site, which was once a key part of the McMillan Reservoir Park and a testament to early 20th-century engineering innovation. Built in 1905, the McMillan Sand Filtration Site played a crucial role in Washington, DC's public health infrastructure for over 80 years. When it was decommissioned in 1986, it was one of the last large-scale sand filtration facilities remaining in the United States. Our team carefully stabilized and restored the filtration towers, silos, regulator houses, and sand washers. These structures, distinctive examples of industrial architecture from the early 1900s, have been reimagined for contemporary use following their preservation. The adaptive reuse includes small retail spaces and art installations, ensuring that these historic elements remain active and functional parts of the community. The project's second phase included a new 19,500-square-foot recreation center as part of a six-acre development with essential amenities for neighborhood use. The master plan complemented the site's historic features while providing practical recreational spaces. The eight-acre park includes a recreation center, indoor pool, outdoor play areas, and a natural amphitheater. A walking museum incorporated throughout the site provides historical context for visitors, offering educational insight into the facility's original purpose and significance. Sustainability principles guided the entire redevelopment. Rain gardens, permeable pavement, green roofing, and a stormwater pond for water reuse earned LEED® Silver certification and echo the site's original purpose of water management. These features create a self-sustaining ecosystem that reduces environmental impact while providing educational opportunities about conservation and natural systems. The McMillan Sand Filtration Site redevelopment shows how historical industrial sites can be thoughtfully transformed while preserving their heritage. By carefully balancing preservation with necessary modernization, this project has created a neighborhood asset that honors the past while serving present needs in the heart of Washington, DC.