F.H. Paschen And McLean Community Center Cut Ribbon on ADA Improvements at Old Firehouse Center

McLEAN, VA – Community leaders, teenage residents, parents, and F.H. Paschen representatives gathered today to mark the completion of critical ADA-related renovations at the Old Firehouse Center (OFC), a facility operated by the McLean Community Center (MCC).

In attendance at the ribbon-cutting was MCC Executive Director Betsy May-Salazar, Chair of McLean Community Center Governing Board Doug Jeffery, Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman, Former Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust, Board of Supervisors Chair Jeff McKay and County Executive Bryan Hill.

The updates improve accessibility and comfort for all visitors, strengthening the center’s role as a vital gathering place for teens and families across Fairfax County.

The $660,000 project began as a focused effort to upgrade the entry vestibule and restrooms to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. As work progressed, additional improvements were added, including a full replacement of the entry storefront, new flooring in half of the building, fresh paint covering most of the interior, a renovated game room, refurbished bulkhead, updated landscaping, and replacement of exterior HVAC louvers.

“These renovations reflect McLean’s commitment to providing safe, welcoming, and accessible spaces for our community,” said Charles Lawler, Head of F.H. Paschen’s Mid-Atlantic office. “Seeing how MCC has brought this historic building which served as the first fire station in Fairfax County to new life as a community center inspired our team to ensure this space can continue to serve everyone.”

Throughout the project, crews coordinated closely with MCC leadership and staff to limit disruptions, even as programs and camps continued onsite. Supply delays presented challenges, but construction stayed on track, beginning in January 2025 and concluding this month.

Originally opened in 1990, OFC was the first dedicated teen center in Fairfax County and continues to provide after-school programs, events, and summer camps. The facility is supported through funding from Greater McLean residents, as well as fees, donations, and the leadership of MCC’s elected Governing Board.

Today’s ribbon cutting celebrates the completion of critical accessibility improvements and marks another successful partnership between F.H. Paschen and communities throughout Northern Virginia.