Huntington Metro Plan Approved

The Huntington Metro Area Comprehensive Plan amendment was approved by the Board of Supervisors this week after the planning commission unanimously approved the plan two weeks ago.

"The plan calls for a mixed-use development on the site including 382,00 square feet of office, retail, and community-use space, a civic plaza, more urban park space, a network of bike and pedestrian paths, a possible hotel, and 15,000 residential units with a minimum of 15% of those being affordable."

The next step before development can occur is a rezoning of the site to allow for the increased density and mix of uses.

Learn More

Alexandria Motel is demolished

The Alexandria Motel is one of the first buildings to be demolished in the Bus Rapid Transit infrastructure plan.

"During its heyday in the mid-twentieth century, the motel was a 27-room property advertising its private showers, televisions, central heating and cross-ventilation."

STEAMfest 2022 was a HIT!

With over 300 participants and over 40 STEAM activities (including drone racing and riding on a hovercraft) we are thrilled to share that STEAMfest 2022 was a wonderful success! Supervisor Lusk gave a tour of the Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (W.I.S.H) to the president of George Mason University, and Dr. Calvin Mackie who is the founder of STEM NOLA.

STEAMfest's across the country want to show children and teenagers new and emerging technologies to inspire their curiosity in the sciences as well as introduce them to future careers in science and technologies. The WISH center provides these technological and technical opportunities to various communities across the county where these types of assets are beyond reach.

Special thanks to Eriberto Velazquez of Franconia District of Fairfax for capturing some great moments of wonder and STEM NOLA for putting together a recap video of the event-filled day!

Watch the recap video HERE

Workforce Training Program at the WISH Center

Looking to get engaged in your community? Have you been told you are a great teacher? Do you love Science and Research? If so, Inova/iTHRIV Research Community Advisory Board (CAB) is looking for people like you!

When: Weekly, Wednesdays from 6 - 8pm

Where: The WISH Center (inside Hybla Community Center) 7950 Audubon Ave.

For interest or questions: DreamBig@inova.org or ehomer@melwood.org

Read more about it!

Shop Local this Season!

This holiday season, forget the crowds and chaos of the big box stores and shop local for your gifts and dining. Small businesses are the heart of our communities, and by shopping small, we can help to keep our neighborhoods thriving. In addition, small businesses offer a more personal shopping experience, and you're likely to find unique gifts that you won't find anywhere else. So this holiday season, show your support for small businesses and shop local!

Stay stress free this Holiday season!

The Holiday season is upon us and between buying gifts, preparing meals, and dealing with crowds, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But there are ways to reduce stress this holiday season. These activities can help you feel more relaxed and cheerful:

1. Relax and Unwind: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping and spend some time relaxing. Take a hot bath, read a book, watch your favorite show on TV, or listen to soothing music.

2. Go Outside: Get a breath of fresh air and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Go for a walk or hike, spend time in your garden, or just sit and enjoy the sunshine. Find a local park near you!

3. Spend Time with Friends and Family: Round up your closest loved ones and do something fun together, such as playing board games, going to the movies, or sharing a meal.

4. Donate Your Time to a Community Project: Find an organization that needs volunteers and give back. Whether it's helping out at a food bank, picking up litter, or assisting at a shelter, your time can make a difference.

By making time time to be present, relax, or make new memories, you will find stress taking a backseat this Holiday season.

Don't feel like cooking this year?

The holidays are a time for family, friends and community. This Thanksgiving, why not support your local restaurants by dining out? Many restaurants across the county will be open on Thursday, offering a welcome reprieve from cooking and cleaning. Whether you're looking for a traditional turkey dinner or something more unusual, there's sure to be a restaurant that will suit your taste. And what could be more festive than sharing a meal with loved ones? So this year, instead of spending hours in the kitchen, make a reservation at your favorite local spot and enjoy a stress-free holiday.

See what's cooking!

Updates on the Corridor

The beloved Mount Vernon Recreation Center is getting a much needed update! However, this means they will be temporarily closing to complete renovations. This project has been a priority for the Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and it looks like the project will start right on time. Stay tuned for more updates.

on the MOVE!

FairfaxCounty.gov

Just in time for the holiday travel season, the final section of the 66 Express Lanes is now open. "The eastbound direction of the new 66 Express Lanes from Route 28 in Centreville to I-495 (Capital Beltway) is on track to open on Tuesday, Nov. 22. The westbound direction of this same 13-mile section of express lanes opened on Saturday, Nov. 19."

The new lane will provide a faster and more reliable commute for drivers. Travel times on I-66 have decreased by up to 30 percent during rush hour. With the completion of the project, drivers will have even more options for avoiding traffic delays.