WASHINGTON (AP) — The family foundation of a Washington developer is announcing a $1 million gift to help restore the National Mall’s grounds and facilities.

The nonprofit Trust for the National Mall announced the gift Monday from the Akridge Family Foundation. John “Chip” Akridge is founder and chairman of the fundraising effort for the mall.

Akridge began working to establish the fundraising organization to support the National Mall in 2001, and it was officially launched in 2007.

The group has set a goal of raising $350 million privately for the mall. Many areas have become run down from over-use and inadequate funding for maintenance over the years.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.