Alexandria nonprofit receives $2M from MacKenzie Scott, JBG SMITH doubles number of Monumental ALX workforce housing units, and more This Week in Economic Development

Have trouble viewing this email? View as Webpage

This Week in

Economic Development

March 25- 31, 2024

If you have questions about this weekly update, or would like to learn more about economic development opportunities in Alexandria, please contact us.

AEDP STAFF

Notable News

Billionaire philanthropist and Amazon co-founder MacKenzie Scott awarded $649M to support 361 nonprofits the Washington Business Journal reports. Based in Alexandria, Friends of Guest House received $2 million, according to ALX Now. The funds will aid in their mission to assist women reentering the Northern Virginia community after incarceration.

“This transformative grant from Mackenzie Scott’s Yield Giving is a testament to the dedication and impact of our organization over the past five decades,” executive director Sonja Allen said. “We are deeply grateful for this extraordinary gesture of support that will enable us to strengthen our programs, reach more women in need, and create lasting positive change in our community.”

Developer JBG SMITH is doubling the number of affordable workforce housing units from 500 to 1000 for the proposed Potomac Yard Entertainment District project. The move comes in response to discussions with Alexandria City officials, Virginia State Legislators, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community, and Alexandria residents. According to CityBiz, it is one of the largest housing preservation pledges in the region's history.

“Housing that is affordable and accessible is not just a piece of the puzzle; it’s integral to a holistic approach that drives equitable solutions to employment, transportation, and economic inclusion,” said Matt Kelly, Chief Executive Officer at JBG SMITH.

Seminary Road Housing Projects has started construction on demolishing three single-family homes to make way for 31 townhomes and 5 condominium flats, according to Alexandria Living Magazine. The shared equity homeownership program announced by Housing Alexandria would give families earning up to 80% of the Areia Median Income an opportunity to purchase a home in the area.

Grant Funding for Historic Restaurants in Alexandria

Apply today to receive up to $50,000 to address critical needs.

American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation launched a grant program to help restaurants and bars address critical needs and economic challenges. The deadline to submit applications for small, independently owned restaurants in historic or older buildings is tonight, March 25 by 11:59 p.m. Click here to apply today!

This week: Events & Activities

Monday

3/25

Traffic and Parking Board Meeting

Items of interest include updates on Lower King Street Long Term Pedestrian Plan, Holland Lane Community Engagement, Eisenhower Avenue Transportation Study Outreach and Completed Parking Meter Additions Potomac Yard; and a public hearing on No Turn on Red Restrictions and Slip Lane Modification - Duke Street and South Patrick Street and Duke Street and South Henry Street.

Time: 7:00 PM

Links: Event info; Zoom registration

Tuesday

3/26

Waterfront Flood Mitigation Open House

Staff and project consultants will present updates on the following:

• Elimination of underground storage

• Pump Station locations

• Lower King Street design concepts

• NEPA: scoping and schedule

Time: 7:00 PM

Link: Event info

Thursday

3/28

GWHCC Business Expo

The Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Business Expo has become the region’s premier event connecting minority-owned businesses with potential clients and organizations that support their growth. Join for a day of networking! Connect with like-minded business owners, attend informative seminars, receive 1-on-1 guidance for your business, and more!

Time: 9:00 AM

Link: Event info