Foreseeing the Alexandria of the Future
On this 275th birthday of the City of Alexandria, it’s a great time to look back at how Alexandria has changed over the centuries and what’s on the horizon for its 300th birthday in 2049. You don’t need a crystal ball to peer into the future. In October, Agenda Alexandria will take a look forward to the Alexandria of the next generation. The discussion is based on the neighborhood development plans in place today. Most city plans span the next 25 years. As these plans are realized, we ask, “What will Alexandria be like and look like in 2049? What will stay, what will be new, and what will be gone? How might it change?”
Unlike its beginnings as a bustling seaport town, Alexandria today is a small bedroom community within a large metropolitan region. Alexandria’s historic sites, waterfront, and proximity to Washington, DC, make it a prime choice for those who live or work in the DMV. As a result, there is a great deal of demand for housing and development. The large areas envisioned for intensive development are along the Eisenhower Avenue corridor, the former Power Plant site on the waterfront, Potomac Yard, and large portions of the West End. How many people will live, work, and visit within 15 square miles?
Who will be able to choose Alexandria for their home or business? Will Alexandria thrive or struggle as it reaches 300 years old? Agenda Alexandria will explore all sides of these questions with three (or 4?) experts – each with a unique perspective on development choices and their effect on a livable Alexandria. They will offer attendees a glimpse of Alexandria in the future.
The panel discussion will occur on Monday, October 28, at 7:00 pm at the G.W. Masonic National Memorial.
The panelists include:
Jeff Farner – Deputy Director of the Department of Planning and Zoning for the City of Alexandria
Eric R. Wagner – Former Executive Vice President with MedStar Health
Terry L. Clower – Northern Virginia Chair and Professor of Public Policy at George Mason University
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