Posted on December 8, 2025
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has withdrawn $60.5 million in construction loans previously allocated for dredging Lake Accotink, the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services announced.
“DEQ confirmed that this action does not affect Fairfax County’s ability to reapply in the future,” states a Dec. 5 email from Lake Accotink Project Manager Turgay Dabak.
DPWES, in coordination with the Park Authority, will continue carrying out the Board of Supervisors’ direction to evaluate the feasibility of preserving a smaller Lake Accotink, with study completion expected in 2027.” Dabak states.
“DPWES will continue pursuing alternative funding sources, including grants, low-interest loans, and partnership programs to support the project once the board identifies a path forward after current studies conclude,” he says. “Furthermore, DPWES plans to reapply for Virginia Clean Water Revolving Loan Funds once the project nears construction, aligning with the loan program requirements.”
The Department of Environmental Quality had previously approved two allocations from the Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund, including $30.5 million in 2020 and $30 million in 2021, based on initial dredging cost estimates.
“Because construction is now projected to begin no earlier than 2027, the project no longer meets federal and state requirements requiring fund drawdown within 24 months of award,” DPWES says. DEQ denied the county’s request for an extension based on an updated schedule.
