As the Board is aware, Tysons is planned as Fairfax County’s urban center. Immediately to the west of existing and planned development in the Hunter Mill portion of Tysons is a stream valley that includes Old Courthouse Spring Branch. Also included in this stream valley is Raglan Road Park and other Fairfax County Park Authority property which contain more than 40 acres of forested land. This green corridor is of great value to nearby residents, local businesses, visitors to the area, and the numerous flora and fauna that make this stream valley their home.

Unlike many areas of Fairfax County, land along the stream valley is owned by a variety of property owners including but not limited to the Park Authority. For the Board’s awareness, I am creating a community-led Task Force with representatives of property owners and other community partners to develop high-level strategies for the preservation and enhancement of the stream valley. The Task Force will provide a forum for discussion and recommended action to maximize the ecological benefits of this green corridor while maintaining appropriate access by us humans. I appreciate the Park Authority’s active interest and participation in this effort and look forward to sharing the task force findings and recommendations as this important community work moves forward.