The ULI-TAP discussions on the Gordon Road Triangle suggested a phased redevelopment, including re-doing an earlier property yard study, zoning for more multi-family and mixed-use housing, and affordable housing.
Planning Commissioners continue to have issues with owner occupancy, size, height and setbacks of detached accessory dwellings – details that impact neighboring properties. No consensus was reached. The State Senate passed their AD bill.
Open houses were sparsely attended but vocal. Community concerns include the lack of owner occupancy, environmental issues, the one size fits all approach and no requirement to notify neighbors of construction plans.
At the urging of City Council and Planning Commission, staff reversed the decision to allow short-term rental in accessory dwellings, but made no changes to accommodate other concerns about impacts on neighbors, neighborhood and the environment.
The FY2026 budget guidance cautions that real estate tax rates may need to rise to meet the increased costs for infrastructure and school enrollment growth. Also, there is uncertainty in state and federal funding, and the regional economy.
FCCPS growth, driven by new residents moving into West Falls, Broad and Washington and Founders Row II, is a major factor in the 9.4% increase in the FY2026 budget guidance. Staff salary increase is about 5%.
Here are 36 new businesses and one pop-up project that have recently opened or plan to open, including store maps for West Falls and Founders Row.Their statuses in the long process of relocating to the City is also provided.
Some on Council and Planning Commission have concerns about the proposed code that allows ADs up to two stories and 1,000sf, with no regulations on short-term rentals and occupancy nor parking review.
Planning Director Paul Stoddard leaves Falls Church for Alexandria as of November 30. The City now has three senior positions to fill, including directors for Human Resources and the Department of Public Works.
