Eight tennis courts and the playground at Jefferson District Park will shut down Monday, Aug. 24, for a 10-week, $1.68 million renovation that swaps aging asphalt for post-tensioned concrete.

The Fairfax County Park Authority project at the Idylwood park (7900 Route 29), adjacent to McLean, will close courts No. 1 through No. 8. Basketball courts stay open.

The courts are among the most heavily used in Fairfax County, according to Park Authority spokesperson Andy Grabel. He told FFXnow that the existing asphalt courts require recurring full reconstruction because they crack and heave over time.

"Over time, asphalt surfaces crack, heave, and become increasingly difficult to maintain, requiring full reconstruction on a recurring cycle," Grabel said. "For decades, we have continually balanced and reprioritized these reconstruction needs across the countywide system."

The problem isn't unique to Jefferson District Park. Fairfax County's park system includes more than 400 athletic courts, most built with asphalt. The Park Authority said the Jefferson District courts were selected for the pilot upgrade because of their heavy use.

Instead of replacing the courts with more asphalt, the Park Authority is installing post-tensioned concrete, a material reinforced with rebar and steel cables that resists cracking and compression. The new surface carries a 50-year warranty.

The upfront cost is roughly double a traditional asphalt replacement, which would run about $816,000. But the Park Authority projects the concrete courts will save the county approximately $780,000 in maintenance over 50 years. Grabel said the improved durability and extended lifecycle justify the higher initial investment.

Field Turf USA is the project contractor. The Park Authority estimates construction will take approximately 10 weeks, putting the expected completion around late October.

During the work, the lower parking lot near the golf maintenance shop will serve as a staging area. Visitors should expect increased construction traffic and noise near that section of the park.

The park's eight courts are normally lighted until 11 p.m. daily and open year-round without reservations, according to the Park Authority's site. The closure means players will need to find alternatives through early November.

Residents looking for other courts or playgrounds can use the county's Park Amenity Locator at fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/locator. The Park Authority's announcement includes additional project details.