Public Meetings - Alexandria, Virginia

The Alexandria City Council held a public hearing on Saturday, April 20, 2026, at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center. The meeting covered a wide range of items including proclamations, a consent calendar, public discussion, and numerous public hearings on budget, taxes, development permits, and zoning amendments. Key themes included funding for the Sheriff's Office, rental assistance, school board reform, and development incentives. The meeting lasted from 9:32 AM to 2:47 PM with a lunch recess. Proclamations & Recognitions - Councilmember Aguirre presented a proclamation recognizing National Library Week (April 19–25, 2026). Library Director Rose Dawson and Deputy Director Luis Labra spoke, highlighting the library's 90th anniversary in 2027. The proclamation passed unanimously. Public Discussion Period - Michael Morris (Environmental Policy Commission) reported on March meetings focused on housing, sustainability, and the Housing 2040 Master Plan. - Nicole Radshaw (resident) compared Alexandria to Disney World, advocating for safer bike infrastructure, free bus service, and pedestrian improvements. - Jacob Wolf Barnett (parent) presented a petition with over 260 signatures calling for city council leadership on school board reform, specifically reducing board size and increasing compensation. - Aaron Probes (parent) criticized ACPS for budget increases without improved outcomes, citing low test scores and principal turnover. - Ellis Orin Brown (8-year-old resident) asked for safer streets on Braddock Road so he can bike independently. - Bill Dickinson (Futureport) announced the organization's charter and urged council feedback on a vision for Potomac Yard. - Kathy Hoekstra (resident) requested that city boards and commissions improve public access and transparency, citing examples from COG meetings and NOVA Parks. Consent Calendar (Roll-Call Votes) - Items 5, 7, 9, 10 were approved on a consent agenda (moved by Councilman Chapman, seconded by Councilwoman Green). These included: - Development Special Use Permit 2026-10002 (Elbert Avenue Residences) - Development Special Use Permit 2025-10032 (300 North Lee Street townhomes) - Supplemental Appropriations for FY2026 - VDOT Administrative Project Agreements Discussion Items - Vacation of Kent Place and Russell Road (Item 6) – Planning and Zoning staff presented a request to vacate 7,620 square feet of unimproved right-of-way to adjacent property owners for subdivision and single-family homes. Public speakers opposed (Patrick McLaughlin, Susan Robinson) and supported (Amanda Rudolph, David Chamowitz). After debate, Council approved 5-2 (Vice Mayor Bagley, Councilman Aguirre, Mayor Gaskins, Councilwoman Green in favor; Councilman Chapman and Councilman El Nuby opposed). - Address Renumbering Ordinance (Item 8) – Public hearing with one supporter (Darren Tillingas). Council passed unanimously. - FY2027 Budget Add/Delete Proposals (Item 11) – Extensive public testimony on a proposed $200,000 cut to the Sheriff's budget to fund a jail efficiency study. Undersheriff Dan Gordon, Sergeant Angela Spate, Sheriff Sean Casey, and many deputies opposed the cut, arguing it duplicates existing studies and harms operations. Community members from ICE Out of Alexandria coalition supported the cut as a response to Sheriff Casey's voluntary cooperation with ICE. Council also heard from tenants and workers advocating for increased rental assistance. The public hearing was closed; a work session is scheduled for April 21 with budget adoption on April 29. - Property Tax Rates (Item 12) – No speakers; public hearing closed. - Parking Citations (Item 13) – No speakers; public hearing closed. - Stormwater Utility Fee (Item 14) – John Hill (AlexRenew commission) spoke, recommending expansion of flood proofing grants and revisiting project priorities. Staff confirmed ongoing planning. Public hearing closed. - Parking Meters Sunday (Item 15) – Maria Shirocky (Chamber of Commerce) opposed Sunday meter charges, citing economic softness. Council discussed alternatives (raising ticket fees or meter rates). Public hearing closed; further discussion on April 21. - Fire Prevention Code Changes (Item 16) – No speakers; public hearing closed. - BPOL Tax on Financial Services (Item 17) – Joe Haggerty (Chamber) and Josh Baverka (NVAR) opposed increasing the tax from $0.35 to $0.40 per $100 of gross receipts, arguing it would make Alexandria less competitive. Councilman Aguirre noted the category hasn't been raised in 30 years and is well below the legal maximum. Public hearing closed. - Eisenhower Pointe Phase 2 DSUP (Item 18) – Staff presented a 117-unit townhouse and back-to-back dwelling project at 4701 & 4801 Eisenhower Avenue. Applicant requested a 50% credit (approx. $300,000) for constructing Cumberland Street, similar to Phase 1. Staff did not support the credit, noting the street is required per the small area plan. Council debated; a motion to approve with the credit (Vice Mayor Bagley, seconded by Councilwoman Green) passed 4-3 (Mayor Gaskins, Councilman El Nuby also in favor; Councilman Aguirre, Councilman Chapman, Councilwoman Green? Wait, roll call: Vice Mayor Bagley aye, Councilwoman Green aye, Mayor Gaskins aye, Councilman El Nuby aye; Councilman Aguirre nay, Councilman Chapman nay, Councilman? Actually transcript says Vice Mayor Bagley, Councilwoman Green, Mayor Gaskins, Councilman El Nuby in favor; Councilman Aguirre, Councilman Chapman opposed. So 4-3). - Commercial Uses Zoning Text Amendment (Item 19) – No public speakers; Council closed public hearing and approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved: Vacation of Kent Place/Russell Road (5-2), Address Renumbering Ordinance (unanimous), Eisenhower Pointe Phase 2 DSUP with credit (4-3), Commercial Uses ZTA (unanimous). - Consent Items 5,7,9,10 approved via roll-call. - Deferred/Continued: Budget add/delete work session on April 21; final budget adoption April 29. Parking meters and BPOL tax to be discussed further at the work session. - Appointed Vacate Viewers for the Kent Place vacation: Don Solomon, Janet Skew, Michael Porterfield. - Notable: The council heard extensive public comment on Sheriff's budget and ICE cooperation. No final decision was made on the $200,000 cut.

Note: The meeting transcript identifies the date as April 15, 2026, but the provided meeting time specifies April 16, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The meeting was called to order at the specified time, with public comment period opened and immediately closed, followed by approval of the previous month's meeting minutes. The primary agenda item was a presentation and discussion of the GoAlex Strategic Plan for 2027-2031, including commissioner questions and endorsement. Commissioner updates included discussion of snow clearing of bike lanes, Braddock Road Metro station redevelopment concepts, and relocation of a Capital Bikeshare station. The meeting concluded with elections for chair and vice chair. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the March meeting were approved by a motion from Commissioner Beattie and a second. Public Comments & Testimony - The chair opened the public comment period but then immediately made a motion to close it, which was approved. No public comments were provided. Discussion Items - GoAlex Strategic Plan 2027-2031: Katie North, Division Chief for Mobility Services, presented the draft plan. The plan has three strategic goals: Inform and Educate, Enhance and Invest, and Improve and Celebrate. It targets customers under the "Live, Work, Visit" framework, aiming to inform residents, students, employers, and visitors about transportation options. Commissioners discussed: - Funding constraints: Commissioner Beattie questioned whether state grant funding (DRPT) still restricts spending to commute-focused activities. Staff responded that some funding streams are becoming more flexible and they are using a mix of grants and developer TMP funds. - Outreach to all residents: Commissioner Lovane suggested the plan should target all residents, not just those near transit, and recommended using school systems, yard signs, and broader social media (including BlueSky). - Partnerships: Commissioners encouraged partnering with ACPS, the Bikes in Schools (BITS) program, VRE, and Visit Alexandria. Commissioner Lovane also noted that the plan should include private schools in its maps. - Specific programs: The plan includes pilot studies for a water taxi and e-bike lending library, as well as transit education for students and street teams instead of a mobile commuter store. Staff explained that the mobile commuter store was not cost-effective and street teams are more flexible. - Tourism: Commissioner Catherwood questioned if targeting visitors spread GoAlex too thin, but staff clarified they would work with Visit Alexandria and hotels. - Performance metrics: The plan includes clear metrics to measure effectiveness. - Commissioner Updates: - Braddock Road Metro Station Redevelopment: Commissioners reviewed initial concepts including protected bike lanes, pick-up/drop-off zones, and pedestrian plazas. Concerns were raised about placing pick-up/drop-off on Braddock Road due to space constraints; Commissioner Catherwood suggested Potomac Avenue as an alternative. Staff noted an open house was upcoming and details were preliminary. - Snow Clearing of Bike Lanes: Commissioner Catherwood reported that bike lanes on Seminary Road and elsewhere were not cleared during winter, with posts knocked down and debris remaining. This undermines efforts to promote cycling. Commissioner Lovane added that without reliable network maintenance, mode shift goals are at risk. - Capital Bikeshare Relocation: Commissioner Catherwood mentioned a slight relocation of a station on West Reed Avenue to accommodate a bus stop adjustment. Key Outcomes - Endorsement of GoAlex Strategic Plan: The commission unanimously voted to endorse the draft GoAlex Strategic Plan (2027-2031). The plan will next be presented to the DASH Board of Directors and City Council in May 2026 for adoption, followed by DRPT approval. Implementation is targeted for July 2026. - Election of Officers: The commission elected Commissioner Lovane as Chair and Commissioner Beattie as Vice Chair. The vote was unanimous.

The Alexandria City Council held a legislative meeting on April 14, 2026, at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center. The meeting began with a closed executive session at 6:15 PM to discuss investment of public funds, reconvened in open session at 7:05 PM, and adjourned at 8:06 PM. Council approved several ordinances on first reading, received the monthly financial report, adopted proclamations, and made appointments to boards and commissions. Key discussion centered on proposed parking citation increases, Sunday parking meter enforcement, and a BPOL tax rate increase, with several council members signaling potential opposition. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of meetings from January 13, January 24, February 10, February 21, and February 24, 2026. - Accepted resignations from Lynn Jorden (Public Record Advisory Commission) and Robert L. Montague (Waterfront Commission). - Made uncontested appointments to seven boards and commissions. - Received the Monthly Financial Report for the period ending February 28, 2026. - Adopted a resolution approving the City's participation in a settlement of opioid-related claims against six regional distributor/dispenser defendants. - Passed on first reading: Supplemental Appropriations Ordinance for FY2026, Stormwater Utility Fee ordinance, Fire Prevention Code amendments, House Numbering ordinance, and an ordinance amending financial services licensing. These were scheduled for public hearing on April 18, 2026. Proclamations and Recognitions - Council recognized April 2026 as "Volunteers Are the Heart of Alexandria" month and presented a proclamation to Volunteer Alexandria. - Council recognized April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month. Alex, a community advocate, spoke about challenges faced by the autistic community and called for continued support. Reports and Updates - Mayor Gaskins reported on the COG meeting, noting a regional commuter survey and changing transit patterns. - Councilwoman Greene reported on the COG Food and Agriculture Regional Member (FARM) Policy Committee meeting, which focused on food security. - Councilman Aguirre reported on the Commission on Aging meeting, including thanks for the age-friendly plan and next steps. - Councilman Aguirre also gave general updates on Metro's 50th anniversary, local business openings, and community events. - Councilman Chapman reported on the NVRC Go Virginia board, a field allocation policy meeting for recreation, and congratulated Councilwoman Greene on her sorority induction. - Councilwoman Greene acknowledged the passing of community leader Susan Callum. - Vice Mayor Bagley noted a Days of Remembrance ceremony for Holocaust victims. - City Manager presented the State of the Economy, reporting unemployment at 4.3%, inflation at 3.3%, real estate market softening slightly, and consumption taxes (meals and lodging) declining year-to-date. Discussion Items - Parking Citation Increase (Item 16): Council approved first reading of an ordinance to increase parking citation fines, with the understanding that further discussion and potential adjustments would occur at the April 21 budget ad-delete session. - Parking Meter Changes (Item 17): This ordinance included proposed Sunday parking enforcement. Several council members (Chapman, Mayor Gaskins, Greene, Al Nubi) expressed concerns or opposition to Sunday parking. Council passed first reading to allow public hearing and further debate. - BPOL Rate Increase (Item 20): Ordinance to amend business license tax rates. Passed first reading for public hearing, with similar intent to revisit. - Contested Appointments: Council made appointments to 10 boards/commissions, including reappointing Sean Zielenbach to the Housing Affordability Advisory Committee. The appointment to the Independent Community Policing Review Board was deferred and will be readvertised. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items approved unanimously (docket items 10-21, with items 16, 17, 20 voted separately). - First reading of ordinances for parking citations, parking meters, BPOL rates, stormwater fee, fire code, and house numbering passed. Public hearings scheduled for April 18, 2026; final passage for most on April 29, 2026. - City Council schedule approved, including upcoming events: We Are Eco-City Alexandria (April 25), Ellen Pickering Award (April 26), City Council Town Hall (May 19), Environmental Policy Commission Retreat (May 2), and unveiling of City Memorial for Potomac Mid-Air Collision victims (June 1). - Meeting adjourned at 8:06 PM.

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met on April 13, 2026, at 7:02 PM in the Del Pepper Community Resource Center. Chair Liu was absent; Vice Chair Bauman participated remotely. Temporary Chair Foley was elected (5-0, Patel abstaining). The board heard three cases: two routine approvals and a contested case at 1030 Cross Drive involving a after-the-fact gazebo and fence. The meeting adjourned at 8:58 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified during the hearing. Only applicants and their representatives presented. Discussion Items - BZA2026-00004 – 219 West Mount Ida Avenue: Special exception to construct a rear addition encroaching 3.84 feet into the required side yard on a corner lot. Staff recommended approval, and the applicant presented neighbor support. The board approved unanimously. - BZA2026-00003 – 2410 Davis Avenue: Variance to construct a 55‑square‑foot mudroom and open portico encroaching 2.75 feet into the required front yard on an irregular triangular lot. Staff recommended approval. The board approved as amended. - BZA2026-00001 & BZA2026-00002 – 1030 Cross Drive: Two after-the-fact requests on a corner lot: (1) a variance to keep a 256‑square‑foot gazebo in the required secondary front yard (setback 0 feet vs. required 25.20 feet), and (2) a special exception to keep a 6‑foot privacy fence along the secondary front property line (setback 0 feet vs. required 13 feet). The gazebo had been built about 9 years prior; the fence replaced a 4‑foot fence in 2024. Staff recommended denial of both, citing failure to meet criteria and potential precedent for neighboring properties. The variance was deferred to a full board. The special exception was approved with conditions after extensive deliberation. Key Outcomes - BZA2026-00004 (219 West Mount Ida): Approved 6-0. - BZA2026-00003 (2410 Davis Avenue): Approved as amended 6-0. - BZA2026-00002 (1030 Cross Drive – variance): Deferred to a future meeting with a full board present (motion 6-0). - BZA2026-00001 (1030 Cross Drive – special exception): Approved 4-2 (acting Chair Foley and Vice Chair Bauman voting against) with the following conditions: - The fence along Bayless Street and the adjacent portion of the rear property line within the 13‑foot setback must be modified: the lower 4 feet may remain solid, but the upper 2 feet must be permanently fixed with at least 50% openness (e.g., lattice or bars). - The applicant must also apply for an encroachment permit for the approximately 1‑foot section of fence located in the public right-of-way. - Minutes from February 9, 2026: Approved 6-0.

The Independent Community Policing Review Board (ICPRB) held a meeting on April 1, 2026, at the Charles Houston Recreation Center. The meeting included a vote to allow Vice Chair Alexis Stackhouse to participate virtually due to a work conflict, approval of the previous meeting’s agenda and minutes, public comment, a presentation by the Independent Policing Auditor (Amiratu) on the ongoing investigation into the death of a loved one in police custody, a 1.5-hour NACOLE training on racial equity and cognitive/implicit biases, discussion of the Board’s letter to APD and Chief McGuire’s response regarding MOU compliance, review of public hearing rules, and scheduling of future meetings. Key topics included the timeliness of the MOU (60 days vs. 60 business days), the Board’s role in reviewing the final report on the Tucker case, and new state legislation (HB 1476) expanding civilian oversight access to records and closed session authority. Consent Calendar - Roll Call: Members present: Deborah Porter (Chair), Alexis Stackhouse (Vice Chair, virtual), members Darrlynn Franklin, Christopher Lewis, Jeanne O’Toole, and Jules Tamegue. Secretary Suzanne Berkey was absent. - Motion to Allow Virtual Participation: Vice Chair Stackhouse was allowed to participate virtually due to a work conflict, motioned by Member Lewis and seconded by Member Franklin. - Approval of Agenda and Minutes: The agenda and minutes from March 4, 2026, were approved after a proper motion and second (Member Franklin, seconded by Member Lewis). Public Comments & Testimony - Tina Alexander (family member): Expressed frustration with delays, incomplete autopsy results, and lack of transparency in the case involving her loved one. She questioned why Chief McGuire had not attended any board meetings, contrasting with practices in other jurisdictions. She asked that the board’s report address the incomplete autopsy. - Frank (founder of Alexandria Accountability): Described his four-year effort to enforce professionalism among APD officers. He claimed that APD leadership and the City Attorney are exploiting an optional exemption to avoid releasing dispositions of sustained complaints, enabling a pattern of non-compliance. He noted similar issues at the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office and Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. Discussion Items - Board Letter to APD & Chief Response: The Board discussed a letter sent to Chief McGuire regarding compliance with the MOU, specifically timeliness of investigations and proper labeling of documents. The Chief’s response, received about six–seven days later, stated that the 60-day timeline began on January 15, 2026 (when the Commonwealth Attorney declined charges), and that he had the authority to extend the deadline for good cause. The Board noted that the Chief did not notify the family, board, or city council as required, and that the final report remained outstanding as of April 1, 2026. - MOU Discrepancy: Members highlighted that the MOU specifies 60 calendar days, while the ordinance states 60 business days. The Auditor agreed this should be reconciled, likely by amending the MOU. - Auditor Update on Tucker Investigation: The Auditor reported that APD’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is expected to complete its report by April 8, 2026. She clarified that once the report is released to the Board, it becomes a public document. The family will be notified directly before public release. Several Board members expressed concern that the family would see the report before the Board, with Vice Chair Stackhouse and Member Lewis arguing that all parties should receive the report simultaneously. The City Attorney advised that the report should be released to the Board, APD, and city council at the same time, and that complainants/families should not receive it early to avoid premature press leaks. No formal vote was taken; the MOU’s notification process will be addressed in future revisions. - HB 1476 – New Legislation: The Auditor summarized new state law (pending governor’s signature) that strengthens civilian oversight authority in three areas: closed session discussions (allowing the Board to view unredacted documents during closed session, but no final decisions can be made there), access to juvenile records, and access to protected victim information. She noted that CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) certification remains unavailable to the Board under current federal law, but a coalition of auditors is working to change that in the next legislative session. - APD Training and Community Police Academy: Board member Jeanne O’Toole expressed frustration with delays in setting up joint training with APD. The Auditor acknowledged the difficulty and suggested the Board consider reaching out directly to the Chief. She noted that she has repeatedly requested that APD send representatives to board meetings or provide piecemeal training, but has not received a response. - Public Hearing Rules and Procedures: The Board reviewed draft rules for public hearings. Key changes recommended by members include: clarifying that “the chair” may also refer to a designee, ensuring consistent language referring to the “Independent Community Policing Review Board,” and noting that the “public hearing may be recorded or transcribed” as required by ordinance. Member Christopher Lewis raised the possibility of allowing the chair, with board consent, to suspend rules in exigent circumstances. Member O’Toole suggested changing “shall” to “should” in a section on board member participation. The Board decided not to vote on the rules that night, but would approve them at the start of the next meeting that includes a public hearing. - Flock Safety Presentation: The Auditor informed the Board that researcher Rebecca Weinstein has offered to present on the privacy and security implications of the Flock Safety license-plate-reader system. The Board may host a community event or invite her to the May meeting. - NACOLE Training – Part I: Tina, NACOLE Director of Training and Education, delivered a 1.5-hour training on racial equity and cognitive/implicit biases. She covered the difference between equality and equity, the prevalence of racial disparities in policing, and six cognitive biases (confirmation, anchoring, availability, expediency, conformity, blind spot) and six implicit biases (affinity, halo/horns, authority, attribution, perception, and the “like-me” bias). She emphasized activating “System 2” thinking (slow, deliberate) and provided self-check questions to help board members manage biases when reviewing cases. - Planned Community Engagement: The Auditor announced that the Board will host a listening session at the Juneteenth event (June 19, 2026, 4:30–6 PM) and is working with the researcher on a potential Flock Safety community education event. Key Outcomes - MOU Revision: The Board agreed that the discrepancy between the MOU’s 60 calendar days and the ordinance’s 60 business days should be resolved by amending the MOU. The process for notifying complainants of final reports prior to board release will also be addressed in the MOU revision. - Public Hearing Rules: Final approval of the public hearing rules was deferred. The Board will vote on the rules at the beginning of the next meeting that includes a public hearing. - Board Member Resignation: Member Lawrence Lewis has stepped down due to a six-month overseas assignment. He may reapply if the seat remains vacant upon his return. - Next Meetings: - May 6, 2026, 6:00 PM – Monthly board meeting plus NACOLE Training Part II. - June 3, 2026, 6:00 PM – Monthly board meeting plus NACOLE Training Part III. - June 19, 2026 (Juneteenth) – Listening session at Alexandria Pride Festival. - APD Annual Training – Date still to be determined. - Training Reminder: Board members must maintain current status for all city security training to retain access to their city email; failure may result in loss of access.

The Board of Architectural Review (BAR) held a public hearing on April 9, 2026, at the Charles Houston Recreation Center, commencing at 7:02 p.m. and adjourning at 9:08 p.m. Acting Vice Chair Zandian presided, joined by Members Miller, del Ninno, Robinson, Adams, and (later) Spencer. Chair Scott was absent. The board considered six docket items and approved minutes from the March 18, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - BAR2026-00053 – Signage at 106 North Lee Street. Approved 5-0 as submitted. - BAR2026-00061 – Modifications for an addition at 109 Duke Street. Approved 5-0 as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - 623 South Royal Street (Items 5&6): The applicant’s agent, Jonathan Parsons, answered board questions. No public testimony was offered. - 1126 Prince Street (Items 7&8): Three speakers: - Chris Corfield (1118 Prince Street) requested a deferral to explore alternatives to demolition and understand traffic implications. - Mark Lamb (1130 Prince Street) expressed concerns about the loss of historic fabric, impacts on his property's windows and natural light, and the scale of the proposed new construction. - Steve Roberts (Historic Alexandria Foundation) urged the board to require documentation of existing historic materials and retention of a rear brick wall and early‑19th‑century smokehouse structure. - 220 & 224 South Peyton Street (Item 9): Steve Roberts spoke in support of the design and asked that archaeological conditions be included in the approval (later clarified as already addressed through the site‑plan process). - 732 North Washington Street (Item 10): A member of the public (speaking on behalf of “Gallizander Panich”) expressed general support but noted concern that the proposal did not address the Washington Street standards, particularly regarding balconies on the primary facade. - 724, 726 & 728 North Patrick Street (Item 11): A neighbor (Patrick, of 728 North Patrick) requested that nearby property owners be kept informed throughout the development process, citing past communication gaps. Discussion Items - 623 South Royal Street (BAR2026-00025 & BAR2026-00050): The board asked the applicant to revise the roof of the proposed porch so that the slopes on both sides are parallel, aligning with the existing structure. The board then approved the request as amended (5-0). - 1126 Prince Street (BAR2026-00042 & BAR2026-00043): The board heard staff’s history of the building (constructed 1893–1896 as a temporary grocery, later converted to residential, largely mid‑20th‑century interior). Board members discussed the proposed new building’s height and massing relative to the two‑story neighbors. A motion to approve the complete demolition (of the front building only, excluding the historic rear wall and structure) carried 5-0 (Member Spencer abstained). A separate motion to defer the new construction application (at the applicant’s request) carried 5-0 (Spencer abstained), with the understanding that the applicant would return with revisions addressing massing, materials, and the building’s rear elevation. - 220 & 224 South Peyton Street (BAR2026-00051): The applicant (Stephen Kulinski) presented a revised design for a new apartment building on an irregular lot, improving column proportions, window scales, and masonry detailing. Staff and board members praised the design. A motion to approve with staff recommendations and a request to study lowering the privacy wall between roof decks carried 6-0. - 732 North Washington Street (BAR2026-00055): The applicant (Kenneth Wire) presented a proposal to convert an existing five‑story office building to residential, adding a mansard roof, balconies, and window modifications. Board members raised concerns about attached balconies on the Washington Street elevation (violating Washington Street standards), the roof‑level dormer design, and the horizontal muntin pattern on ground‑floor windows. A motion to defer to allow the applicant to address comments carried 6-0. - 724, 726 & 728 North Patrick Street (BAR2026-00054) – Concept Review: The applicant (Stephen Kulinski) presented a concept for new townhouses. The board offered design feedback, including suggestions to add depth to the central recessed portion of the facade, vary brick color on end units, and provide material samples at the next review. No vote was taken at this concept‑review stage. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of March 18, 2026 (5-0). - Approved Consent Calendar items BAR2026-00053 and BAR2026-00061 (5-0). - Approved BAR2026-00025 & BAR2026-00050 (623 South Royal Street) as amended (5-0). - Approved BAR2026-00042 (demolition at 1126 Prince Street) as amended (5-0, Spencer abstained). - Deferred BAR2026-00043 (new construction at 1126 Prince Street) at applicant’s request (5-0, Spencer abstained). - Approved BAR2026-00051 (new construction at 220 & 224 South Peyton Street) as amended (6-0). - Deferred BAR2026-00055 (alterations and addition at 732 North Washington Street) at applicant’s request (6-0). - Concept review for BAR2026-00054 (724, 726 & 728 North Patrick Street) received without a vote; applicant to return with revisions. Note: The meeting date appears as April 8, 2026 in the agenda and minutes, but the user instruction specified April 9, 2026. This summary uses the user‑supplied date.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on April 7, 2026, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Del Pepper Community Resource Center. The meeting covered a consent calendar, several development special use permits, a capital improvement program review, and a zoning text amendment. All actions were taken after public testimony and deliberation, with votes recorded. Consent Calendar - Item 2: Adopted a resolution setting the FY2027 Planning Commission meeting schedule unanimously. - Item 3: Approved Street Name Case 2025-00007 for a new public street in the Eisenhower West area unanimously. - Item 4: Recommended approval of Development Special Use Permit 2026-10002 (Elbert Avenue Residences) for a multiunit residential building with a Floor Area Ratio increase, unanimously. - Item 5 (pulled from consent): See Discussion Items. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 5 – Right-of-Way Vacation: No public speakers; commissioners questioned staff about interdepartmental review and future trail use. - Item 6 – CIP: No public speakers; commissioners discussed project timelines, funding, and the affordable housing pipeline. - Item 7 – Eisenhower Pointe Phase 2: The applicant's attorney, Mary Catherine Gibbs, spoke in support of the plan and requested a credit for road construction costs. No other public testimony. - Item 8 – 300 North Lee Street Townhomes: Community member Scott Corzine spoke in strong support, praising the developer's responsiveness and the project's compatibility with the neighborhood. - Item 9 – Zoning Text Amendment: No public speakers. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Vacation of Kent Place and Russell Road Right-of-Way: Staff presented a proposal to vacate 7,620 square feet of unimproved right-of-way. A public access easement of 20 feet would be preserved for a future pedestrian trail. Commissioners clarified that Parks and Recreation had reviewed the site and found no master plan conflict. The motion to recommend approval based on consistency with the master plan passed 7-0. - Item 6 – FY2027-2036 Capital Improvement Program: Staff presented the 10-year, $2.01 billion capital improvement plan and $238.7 million capital budget. Commissioners discussed funding for Fire Station 208 relocation, the West End Recreation Center, waterfront flood mitigation, and the affordable housing pipeline. The commission voted unanimously to find the CIP consistent with the city’s master plan. - Item 7 – Development Special Use Permit 2025-10033 (Eisenhower Pointe Phase 2): The applicant sought to redevelop 5 acres into 117 homes (37 townhouses, 80 back-to-back dwellings) with $1 million contributions to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and Eisenhower West Implementation Fund. The applicant requested a 50% credit on road construction costs (≈$310,000), similar to Phase 1. After debate, the commission voted 4-3 to amend the motion and remove the credit, then voted 6-1 to recommend approval as submitted by staff. - Item 8 – Development Special Use Permit 2025-10032 (300 North Lee Street Townhomes): The applicant proposed 32 townhouses, including two committed affordable for-sale units, with cluster development and density bonus requests. Commissioners praised the design, community engagement, and BAR collaboration. The motion to recommend approval passed 7-0. - Item 9 – Zoning Text Amendment 2026-00001 (Commercial Uses Update): Staff proposed amendments to permit live entertainment, outdoor fitness studios, temporary trailers for schools, and daycare by right with use limitations. Commissioners discussed enforcement mechanisms and requested a change to require training of all employees (not just new employees). The commission voted unanimously to initiate the text amendment and then to recommend approval as amended. Key Outcomes - Item 2 – FY2027 Meeting Schedule: Adopted unanimously. - Item 3 – Street Names: Approved unanimously. - Item 4 – Elbert Avenue Residences: Recommended approval unanimously. - Item 5 – Vacation: Recommended approval 7-0. - Item 6 – CIP: Found consistent with master plan 7-0. - Item 7 – Eisenhower Pointe Phase 2: The motion to amend (remove road construction credit) carried 4-3 (Vice Chair Koenig, Commissioners Harris, Lennihan, Dube in favor; Commissioners Manor, Ramirez, Manor dissenting? Actually transcript shows 4-3 to amend, then 6-1 to approve). Final recommendation of approval (as submitted by staff) passed 6-1. - Item 8 – 300 North Lee Street: Recommended approval 7-0. - Item 9 – Zoning Text Amendment: Initiated 7-0, then recommended approval as amended 7-0. - Minutes: Approved minutes from March 3, 2026, unanimously. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 10:05 PM.

City staff presented three design concepts for a dedicated bicycle and pedestrian trail along North Beauregard Street, a 1.5-mile corridor from Fillmore Avenue to the Fairfax County line. The study builds on the Alexandria Mobility Plan and Alex West Small Area Plan. No votes were taken; public feedback is open until April 19, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Casey (resident): Raised several concerns: (1) Connectivity to existing trails (Lucky Run, Holmes Run, Braddock Road) and need for safe crossings at intersections like Seminary Road and King Street; (2) Narrowing the roadway could reduce speeding, which is a safety issue—drivers often exceed 25 mph; (3) A 10-foot shared-use path may be too narrow on steep hills, creating conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists; (4) Utility poles and boxes in the path are hazards and should be relocated; (5) The transition between trail sides (e.g., east to west) must be addressed. Suggested giving extra weight to designs that separate users. - Chat questions: Asked about maintenance cost differences between Options 2 and 3, cost to replace bollards, whether the city studied current bike/scooter usage (staff noted anecdotal use and one scooter fatality), and if dedicated bus lanes for the West End Transitway are planned (staff confirmed not in funded phase). Discussion Items - Project Overview: Sarah (city staff) presented the study, noting it is funded only for feasibility, not design or construction. The corridor has four+ vehicle lanes, narrow sidewalks (4 ft), steep slopes, and no dedicated bike/ped infrastructure. Crash data from the Vision Zero dashboard (past 5 years) shows pedestrian/cyclist crashes at crosswalks, often due to distracted drivers, poor lighting, and high speeds. Traffic analysis indicates volumes are below capacity for two lanes, and even one lane per direction could handle current volumes without congestion. - Design Options: All three options would remove one vehicle travel lane (on the south side for Options 2 and 3) and provide a separated facility. - Option 1 (Shared trail, widen away from road): Strong safety from traffic, moderate separate spaces (shared), good travel impacts, strong design continuity (matches existing trail north of Seminary), but significant property, cost, and implementation challenges due to land acquisition and topography. - Option 2 (Shared trail, reallocate travel lane): Same safety and separation as Option 1, but better property impacts (city-owned), moderate cost (curb shift requires utility relocation), faster timeline. - Option 3 (In-street protected bike lanes, keep sidewalk): Strong safety and separate spaces (bikes and pedestrians fully separated), good travel impacts, strong property and cost advantages (no curb shift), fast implementation, but significant design continuity challenge (departure from existing trail). - Q&A: Staff clarified that ongoing maintenance cost is lower for concrete (Option 2) than asphalt (Option 3). Bollard replacement cost varies. No changes are planned for the opposite side of the street. The West End Transitway first phase does not include dedicated bus lanes. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes were made. - Public feedback form is open until April 19, 2026, via the project website (alexandriava.gov/go/7749). - Staff will review feedback and present findings to the Traffic and Parking Board in summer 2026. - The final timeline for design and construction is unknown; integration into city work plans and funding identification are pending.

The Alexandria Traffic and Parking Board (TPB) held a public meeting on March 24, 2026, beginning at approximately 12:00 PM. The board considered three public hearing items: a residential pay-by-phone request on Commerce Street, a temporary parking removal for a Capital Bikeshare station relocation, and a modified bus stop rebalancing plan on North Fairfax Street. The meeting also included staff updates, a farewell to board chair Anne Tucker after 10 years of service, and a transportation commission update. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick Plotkin (resident, 300 block Commerce Street) asked about signage, guest permits, and enforcement for the proposed residential pay-by-phone. He noted chronic parking problems on the block and requested increased enforcement attention. - Scott Corzine (300 Queen Street) thanked TNES and Dash staff for revisiting the planned bus stop location on North Fairfax Street and agreeing to move it to the 300 block in response to resident concerns. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Residential Pay-by-Phone on 300 Block Commerce Street (presented by Max DeVillers): The block is eligible due to proximity to metered areas. 12 of 23 households (52%) signed in support. A parking survey on March 5, 2026 found 14 of 16 legal spaces occupied (88%), with 71% of vehicles having valid District 4 RPPs. The old town civic association (OTCA) did not indicate support or opposition. A board member (Dayton) suggested loosening criteria for metered parking. The board voted to recommend implementation. - Item 6 – Parking Removal for Capital Bikeshare Station Relocation on West Reed Avenue (presented by Shana): Two parking spaces will be removed temporarily (likely until mid-2029) to relocate the station around the corner from Commonwealth Avenue due to the Commonwealth-Ashby-Cleave flood mitigation project. Staff noted the station was moved last week for urgent water utility work. Board members raised concerns about Commonwealth Avenue's poor condition for cyclists. The board voted to recommend removal. - Item 7 – Parking Removal/Additions on 200/300 Blocks North Fairfax Street (presented by Silas): This item modified a prior approval (February 2026) for bus stop rebalancing on the old town circulator route (lines 30, 31, 34). Originally 26 spots removed and 26 added, with 10 bus stops removed and 5 added; ADA compliance to increase from 38% to 100%. After resident meetings, staff proposed relocating a planned stop from the 200 block to the 300 block. Board members discussed daylighting at the intersection of North Fairfax and Queen. A board member (Dane) moved to retain up to two parking spaces on the 200 block and remove up to four on the 300 block, contingent on adequate daylighting. The motion passed. Staff Updates - A new TNES Director, Leah Riley, starts the week of March 31, 2026, bringing experience from DC, Portland, and Chicago. - Board Chair Anne Tucker's last meeting (10 years of service); Vice Chair Casey Kane's last meeting will be June 2026. The board needs to elect a representative to serve on the Transportation Commission at its April meeting to avoid a gap. - Transportation Commission update (from Casey): Upcoming projects include Holland Lane corridor improvements (construction 2026), South Pickett Street design, Jordan Street safety improvements (construction late 2026), West Braddock Road/North Howard Street corridor community engagement (spring/summer 2026), and Whiting Street planning (engagement summer 2026). The commission submitted input on the city operating budget, emphasizing better snow removal on sidewalks and bike lanes. Key Outcomes - Item 5: Motion to recommend implementing residential pay-by-phone on the 300 block of Commerce Street passed unanimously. - Item 6: Motion to recommend removing two parking spaces for the Capital Bikeshare station relocation during the flood mitigation project passed unanimously. - Item 7: Motion to recommend retaining up to two on-street parking spaces on the 200 block of North Fairfax Street and removing up to four on the 300 block, subject to adequate daylighting, passed (no recorded opposition). - Farewell: The board recognized Chair Anne Tucker for her decade of service. Vice Chair Casey Kane will depart in June; the board will elect a Transportation Commission representative in April.