We curate public records and meetings about Falls Church City projects and proposals and conduct independent research for added context. Read about the history of the new T-Zone code, Founders Row II, the Broad and Washington Project, and much more.
CACT Analysis of Traffic Crashes In Falls Church City
Injuries from traffic crashes jumped by 50% in 2023 compared to 2022. 203 injuries were reported in the last 10 months. This analysis looks at the data behind these numbers and some possible remedies to make our roads safer.
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FY 2025 Budget: A Bigger Government For A Growing City
Budget negotiations continue with department heads justifying their requests for 15 more staff. Focus on the three biggest departments – City manager’s office, public safety and public works.
OakPark Townhomes – The First T-Zone Project on Park Avenue
Approved: OakPark Townhomes is the first to take advantage of the new T-Zone proposal, with the maximum density and size allowed. Expected price is around $1m.
A Review of the Proposed FY 2025 Budget
The $138.3 million FY 2025 budget is a 16% increase that includes $11.8 million of capital spending. City staff will receive a 6% pay raise while real estate taxes average increase is 2.4%.
The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) 2025 and Beyond
The capital plan (CIP) projects for 2025 total $18.3m. Over the next 6 years, the CIty plan has $191m of projects that will require about $60m of debt to be issued.
W&OD Trail Crossings – Construction Begins April 2024
Construction of four W&OD trail crossings will last until August. Expect periodic road closures on Great Falls St, N Oak St and N Spring St.
Join the 2024 Falls Church Women’s History Walk on May 11th.
The 2024 Falls Church Women’s History Walk on Saturday May 11, 10 am – 3 pm, Cherry Hill Park, is a self-guided tour to learn about the women who shaped our City.
The Little City’s Big Sewage Challenge – Part 2: Has Growth Paid For Growth?
The City Manager proposed funding the $20+ million cost of adding sewage capacity with City funds and $14.3 million bond issuance. City Council asked why growth isn’t paying for growth, what other options.
The Maple and Annandale Development – Another Proposed Mixed-Use Apartment Project
The 7-story Maple and Annandale proposal brings minimal commercial revenue, fully occupies the lot and bulges out over the sidewalk. Otherwise, it is an interesting building.
Falls Church Demographics: The Impacts of Growth
Demographics data from 2021Census shows the impacts of growth. Housing affordability is not only affecting renters but also homeowners without mortgages.
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Primers
A Quinn Homestretch Primer
The Quinn Homestretch project is a 10-story senior living and mixed used building on S Maple Street.
A Founders Row II Primer
An overview of Founders Row II, a 6-story apartment building with ground floor retail on the corner of Broad and West Streets.
A Primer On The T-Zone Proposal
An overview of the T-Zone proposal to allow greater density development, and why residents have reacted so strongly to it.
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Analyses
Falls Church’s Black History: A Welcoming Community That Has Not Always Been So Welcoming
Falls Church was once 42% black. Local historian Ed Henderson writes about their struggle for equity and how zoning, taxes and budgets can displace a community, intentionally or not.
Accessory Dwelling Units Will Be a Key Focus of City Planning in 2024. What Are They? What Are Other Jurisdictions Doing?
City Council has signaled that it will consider zoning changes on Accessory Dwelling Units in 2024. Learn about what other jurisdictions have done and why.
Potential Falls Church City Zoning Changes Need Citizen Awareness and Involvement
Recent upzoning trends in Arlington and Alexandria may lead to similar zoning changes in Falls Church City.