Project Background

This project is located in the Pimmit Run Watershed and is part of a larger neighborhood stormwater improvement area (PM9814) identified in the Middle Potomac Watershed Management Plan.

Project Description

This neighborhood stormwater improvement project will evaluate existing drainage and stormwater infrastructure throughout the neighborhoods in the vicinity of Tucker Avenue and within a 67 acre drainage area that leads to the local stream, Pimmit Run. Existing stormwater infrastructure includes systems managed by Fairfax County within easements on private residential lots and within the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) road right-of-way. The project is being led by Fairfax County in partnership with VDOT.

The primary goals of the project are to:

• Reduce localized flooding and erosion
• Address public safety concerns
• Improve stormwater drainage conditions and infrastructure
• Improve water quality and protect the local stream
• Use an innovative, sustainable and functional design
• Reduce runoff to predevelopment flows to the extent feasible by collecting runoff at the source
• Partner with the community to develop sound, cost effective solutions that can be collaboratively implemented and maintained

The project is divided into three areas: Upper Tucker; Middle Tucker; and Lower Tucker to better evaluate drainage issues and develop solutions. All three areas have inadequate drainage systems that result in street, yard and/or house flooding during certain storm events. Additionally, portions of lower Tucker Avenue are in a FEMA floodplain along Pimmit Run that creates further drainage problems.

Project Location

The project is located in the Chesterfield, Chesterbrook Gardens and Grass Ridge communities in the vicinity of Tucker Avenue in McLean. The project area consists of approximately 67 acres of land that drain to Pimmit Run at the lower end of Tucker Avenue.

The project is in the Dranesville District in the Pimmit Run Watershed.

Project Phase

The project is in the construction phase.

Timeline

A construction contract has been awarded. Notice to proceed has been provided to the contractor beginning April 15, 2024. Construction is scheduled to finish by January 4, 2026. The completion date can change depending on the weather.

What to Expect

Construction site work will start early May. Heavy machineries will be in the neighborhood. Road detour and temporary closure of road signs will be posted in the project area. Driveway access may be limited or unavailable when the work is next to the property, this will be coordinated with residents in advance.

Project cost and Funding Source

Construction of the Tucker Avenue Neighborhood Stormwater Project is estimated to cost about $11 million. Stormwater projects are funded through the county Stormwater Service District. This project also received $4.8 million Virginia Community Flood Preparedness Fund, a grant through the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Contact

For more information, please email Heather Ambrose, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Stormwater Planning Division, or call 703-324-5500, TTY 711.