Franconia Governmental Center Site

Is the site safe for housing?

The safety of environmental and physical conditions of the site were considered and will continue to be part of the evaluation and design of the development during the land use and entitlement process.

Will the sidewalks be safe?

Ensuring community walkability and safe pedestrian experiences are core to any affordable housing redevelopment effort. While specific details for Franconia are still under development and subject to the land use and entitlement process, any plan will include sidewalks safe for pedestrian enjoyment. Pedestrian connectivity and safety are significant considerations in the evaluation of any residential development proposal. 

What will the density be?

The proposed density will be confirmed through the planning and zoning process. Currently, the proposed development would include up to 120 affordable homes depending on the feedback and guidance provided through the land use and entitlement process.

What impact would increase density have on the local community?

The local community will enjoy:

•    A development process that incorporates the needs and desires of the entire community.
•    Amenities included in the development plan to benefit the entire community including anything from green space to traffic calming to schools.
•    Improvement of streetscaping along Franconia Road.
•    Additional tax revenue that will be applied to Franconia.
•    Retention of talented public service staff and promote a diverse, inclusive community, including first responders, teachers, nurses, and others.
•    Economic stimulus and job creation.
•    Sustainable development.
•    Attract investment and support local businesses with new residents.
 

What are the potential traffic impacts?

Impacts to traffic will be studied and incorporated into the land use and entitlement process. Studies will address issues such as parking, roadway improvements, and pedestrian improvements necessary to support additional development. The current site will leverage existing access to mass transit.

What are the potential infrastructure impacts?

Any infrastructure needs will be evaluated to ensure capacity for proposed development. From water needs to roadways, each aspect is carefully analyzed, and impacts of proposed developments are mitigated during the zoning process.
 

What is the process?

Following the Community Conversations, the Board of Supervisors will make a decision on the use of property. If it becomes opportunity for redevelopment for affordable housing, then the development team will be engaged via the Public Private Education Act (PPEA) process and the project will be submitted for zoning. 

How can I share my feedback, opinions and ideas?

Fairfax County is committed to soliciting feedback, opinions, and ideas during a series of community outreach sessions in April and May. As the development moves through the forthcoming land use and entitlement process, the public will have additional opportunities to provide feedback through meetings and hearings.

Is the proposed redevelopment consistent with One Fairfax policy?

The proposed redevelopment of the Franconia Governmental Center – and all potential uses of county-owned land and facilities – have equity baked-in at the beginning. Community conversations will provide more public input, along with the planning and zoning process.

Who will live in the affordable housing? How much money will they make?

The potential affordable housing would serve households earning an average 60% of the Area Median income, which is approximately $63,000 for an individual and $90,000 for a household of four in 2023. This could include:
•    Individuals relying on fixed incomes, including seniors and people with disabilities.
•    Single parents striving to support their families on a single income.
•    Individuals whose earnings are barely sufficient despite holding multiple jobs. 
•    Service industry workers, administrative personnel, social workers, medical support staff, and public service employees. The workers who are the heart of our area’s economy and community. 
•    As many as one in five of the units could have a preference for public safety, medical personnel, and others who could qualify under the Magnet Housing Program. Most of the people living there will be at approximately 60% AMI.

What is the average rent for someone living in an affordable home?

The rent limit (at 60% AMI) for a two-bedroom affordable home is $2,089.

What is the timeframe?

•    On February 9, 2021, the Board of Supervisors (BOS) approved the advertisement for the public hearing regarding Conveyance of Property at the Franconia Governmental Center to FCRHA in Franconia District.  
•    Subsequently, on February 19 and 26, 2021, the Washington Times published advertisements announcing the public hearing scheduled for March 9, 2021.
•    The virtual public hearing meeting on March 9, 2021, BOS authorized the transfer of the land to FCRHA. 
•    A community engagement meeting occurred on October 27, 2021, when Supervisor Lusk hosted a meeting to discuss the potential for affordable housing at the Franconia Government Center and solicited feedback from the community. This feedback from the community was incorporated into the development for a Request for Proposals.
•    On February 3, 2022, a Request for Proposals (RFP #2000003477) was issued under the PPEA Act of 2002. The RFP sought proposals from qualified Developer to develop affordable multi-family housing on the County-owned property at 6121 Franconia Road, Alexandria, Virginia.
•    The selected developer’s redacted proposal was made available on DPMM website on August 29, 2023.
•    On January 23, 2024, the Board of Supervisors conducted a public hearing regarding the validation of the land transfer validation to FCRHA.
 

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