Fairfax Reviews Gordon Road Triangle Plans
Fairfax considers a Comprehensive Plan amendment application from the Beyer Family properties for the Gordon Road Triangle that would clear the way for increased density at the City’s west end.
Fairfax considers a Comprehensive Plan amendment application from the Beyer Family properties for the Gordon Road Triangle that would clear the way for increased density at the City’s west end.
Following one-on-one negotiations over the weekend, City Council reached key compromises on setbacks and owner occupancy requirements. Mayor Letty Hardi called for an ADs 2.0 review in a year to see if new provisions need to be relaxed.
The FY2026-2031 CIP budget continues prior years’ capital projects plus a new sewage flow equalization basin that will require a bond issue in FY2026. The six-year $148 million budget covers over 40 projects. $26 million will be spent in FY2026.
A 10.5% real estate assessment increase allowed the City to initially propose a 2.5c (2%) decrease in real estate taxes from $1.21 to $1.185 in the FY2026 budget proposal. The latest data show economic uncertainties putting that reduction at risk.
Council Members lined up 3-3 with contrasting positions on the one remaining issue to be discussed in April: the permissible side and rear setbacks for ADs from the property line. Other elements of the code were also contentious.
The 2025 Community Survey showed residents liked life in the City, valuing its walkability and small-town feel. Taxes, traffic, and road infrastructure were top issues. While they were satisfied with City government, they were least satisfied with how growth and development, and road infrastructure are being managed.
227 people completed the City’s Accessory Dwelling Survey. The results show a community that is split on six of the nine elements, with strong disagreement on height, setback and the lack of an owner occupancy requirement.
The Planning Commission voted on key issues on Feb. 19. Owner occupancy, setbacks, and size were the most contentious, but views also diverged on the number of occupants. March 5th Public Hearing/Final Recommendations for Council.
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.