01.29.2026

Dear Neighbor,

Whew. What a week. I know many of you are tired, sore, and more than a little frustrated after this epic storm and I want to start by acknowledging that. My office has been available since Sunday, answering calls, responding to emails, and connecting residents with support. I am grateful to my hard working staff for working through the storm to help you. If you are still dealing with snow-related issues, or any other concern, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here for you.

I am especially grateful to the residents of Braddock for your patience and for taking care of each other. This wasn’t just snow. It was heavy snow followed by inches of sleet that turned into what I’ve been calling “concrete snow on top of sand.” Not exactly shovel-friendly. Thank you to the many neighbors looking out for one another. 

I also want to say a huge thank-you to the plow drivers and crews working around the clock in brutal conditions.

One of my favorite stories from this week was elementary and middle school girls helping shovel out an elderly neighbor. That’s Braddock in a nutshell: a true community of communities. And I’ve loved seeing the creativity out there — rakes, axes, and yes, my personal tool of choice, a sledgehammer, to break through this concrete snow. If snow removal were an Olympic sport, Braddock would medal. Speaking of medals - don't forget to check out the fun GMU Homecoming events next week - see below for more details.

A Quick VDOT Snapshot (the basics)

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is responsible for snow and ice removal on interstate, primary, and secondary public roads in Fairfax County, including most neighborhood streets.

VDOT clears roads using a priority system: interstates and primary roads first, followed by major secondary roads and then neighborhood streets. Their goal is to make roads passable within about 48 hours after a storm ends, with crews working around the clock. In neighborhoods, crews typically clear one 8–10 foot travel lane to allow cautious travel and emergency access; roads may remain snow-packed or icy rather than being cleared curb-to-curb.

You may see trucks spreading salt or sand, inspecting conditions, reloading materials, or traveling to assigned areas. Because there’s limited space to push snow, plows move it to the right side of the road, which can sometimes block driveways. Parking in your driveway or on the odd-numbered side of the street if you must park on-street helps crews do their work.

A Two-for-One Opportunity Right Here in Braddock: Small Business Help Desk and Braddock Open House

As we dig out from winter, I’m pleased to invite you to two exciting events right here at the Braddock District Office:

Fairfax CORE in the Community: on Wednesday, February 4:

From 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., we’re hosting a Fairfax CORE in the Community at the Braddock District Office. This is a free small-business support service, important right now for neighbors, especially our displaced federal workers exploring new business ideas or trying to grow their small businesses.

You’ll be able to meet one-on-one with Frank Kuhns, Division Manager for Small & Local Business Development with the County's Department of Economic Initiatives, and get free practical guidance tailored to where you are today.

Entrepreneur Help Desk

Wednesday February 4, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Braddock Hall - 9002 Burke Lake Road Burke, VA 22015

Click here to secure your 1-on-1 appointment on Eventbrite

This is FREE opportunity!

Then… Join Me for an Open House: Wednesday, February 4 | 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

That evening, please stop by for an open house at the Braddock District Office. No agenda — just conversation and connection. Come meet me and my staff, ask questions, and invite your neighbors to join you.

I will share my thoughts at 4:45 and again at 5:45. In between, I am here to listen and connect with you all. 

👉 Click here to RSVP

And Finally… Summer Camp Is Coming ☀️

After a week like this, it’s hard not to dream about summer. Registration for Fairfax County Park Authority spring and summer camps opens February 3 and 5, depending on location. Warmer days are coming — I promise.

Thank you for your patience, your kindness, and the many ways you take care of one another. I’m proud to serve Braddock - snow boots, sledgehammer, and all. Please reach out any time.

Warmly,

Rachna

Please share this newsletter with your friends and neighbors. If this email was forwarded to you, consider subscribing to receive Braddock District news and updates.

Continue reading below for more information on:

• Safety on Ice-Covered Surfaces
• NCS Open Hire Event January 31
• GMU Homecoming Week Activities
• Dog Licenses Due February 2
• Community Advisory Committee Meeting February 3
• Lunar New Year Celebration February 7
• Provide Testimony on Metro's FY 2027 Budget
• Sustain Fairfax Challenge
• 2025 - a Record Year for Crime Solvers Tips

Safety on Ice-Covered Surfaces

With the below-freezing temperatures persisting until next week, you may see one of the Braddock District's five beautiful lakes (Accotink, Braddock, Royal, Woodglen, and Barton) frozen over. Please review the below graphic from the National Weather Service about safety on icy surfaces. If you're not certain that the ice is at least 4 inches thick, then it's not safe to venture out.

NCS Open Hire Event January 31

Fairfax County's Neighborhood & Community Services (NCS) is holding an Open Hire event for a number of positions. Bring several copies of your resume and prepare to interview on the spot for year-round positions in School Age Child Care (SACC) and recreation.

NCS Open Hire Event
Saturday, January 31
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Pennino Building - 9th Floor

12011 Government Center Parkway

Fairfax, VA 22035

NCS is hiring for the following positions:

• School Age Program Leaders
• School Age Program Substitutes
• Recreation Leaders

Visit the NCS jobs page and view the event flyer for more information.

GMU Homecoming Activities

Celebrate Mason Pride at Homecoming 2026



Mason Nation, don your Green and Gold and celebrate Northern Virginia’s hometown team! Alumni, students, families, and neighbors are invited to join a full week of spirited events during George Mason University’s Homecoming 2026 celebration! 💚 💛

Cheer on the Women’s Basketball team as they take on Saint Louis on Saturday, January 31 at 3 p.m., and keep the momentum going the following weekend.

Kick off your Homecoming experience on Saturday, February 7 at the tailgate festival from noon to 3 p.m. Advance purchases are required, and space is limited.

Then rally with fellow Patriots as the Men’s Basketball team faces St. Joseph’s at 4 p.m. Explore the full schedule of activities happening January 30 through February 7 at homecoming.gmu.edu.  

Dog Licenses Due February 2

As a reminder, dog licenses are due by Monday, Feb. 2. The quickest and easiest way to apply or renew is online on the PetData website.

Residents who have applied for a license in the past should have received their renewal notice directly from PetData.

For more information, read the article on the County News Center.

Fairfax County Police Dept Community Engagement Meeting

February 3: Community Advisory Committee-Community Engagement Meeting

You're Invited: West Springfield Community Engagement Meeting

📅 Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 🕖 6:00 p.m.

📍 West Springfield District Station – 6140 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA

Join the West Springfield District Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for an in-person Community Engagement Meeting with the Fairfax County Police Department. These meetings provide a valuable opportunity to connect with local officers, ask questions, and learn more about public safety efforts in your community.

This month’s featured speaker:

Craig Miles-Civilian Review Panel

Craig Miles will provide a presentation on the Civilian Review Panel and its importance to the department and community. He will also be available to answer your questions during the session.

Why attend?

• Stay informed about police operations in your area
• Engage directly with officers
• Strengthen community partnership 

Everyone is welcome – all ages encouraged to attend!

Please note: FCPD follows Fairfax County Public Schools for any weather-related cancellations.


Want to stay in the loop? Sign up for CAC reminders, agendas, and minutes by emailing: wscacmailbox@gmail.com

📞 Questions? Contact MPO Tony Capizzi at (703) 277-2363.


Let’s work together to keep our community informed, connected, and safe!

Lunar New Year Celebration

Public Hearing on the Metro Budget

Metro customers are invited to provide feedback on WMATA's Fiscal Year 2027 Budget and Capital Improvement Plan. 

How to Share Feedback

The public comment period closes at 5 p.m., Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Public feedback will be provided to Metro’s Board of Directors in March 2026, as part of the final decision-making process. Thank you in advance for your valued feedback.


Online Survey

Submit feedback online by 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Online, you have the option to complete a survey, write free-form comments, or upload a document.

In-person Hearing

Tuesday, Feb. 3

Open House at 5:30 p.m.

Hearing at 6:00 p.m.

Bozman Government Center

Arlington County Board Room

2100 Clarendon Blvd., Ste. #307

Arlington, VA 22201

For more information, visit wmata.com/budget.

Sustain Fairfax Challenge - Weatherize and Insulate Attics

Attics are often the biggest source of energy loss in homes, making air sealing and insulation key steps to saving on heating and cooling costs.

Properly insulating your attic can reduce energy bills by up to 30% while creating a more comfortable living environment. Whether you choose a DIY approach or hire a contractor, sealing air leaks and upgrading insulation is an impactful home improvement that helps cut costs, improves efficiency, and supports sustainability. Don't forget to check for rebates to offset project costs.

Learn more about the Sustain Fairfax Challenge at the County's dedicated site from the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination.

2025 - a Record Year for Crime Solvers Tips

Since the Fairfax County Police Department's Real Time Crime Center assumed oversight of the Crime Solvers tips program, community tips have increased by 114% and rewards paid increased by 2,600% in 2025—strengthening investigative efforts across the department. Josh Rosenthal with FOX 5 spoke with Major Hudson Bull about how these tips are supporting active cases. 

Click here for the Fox 5 story

Please share this newsletter with your friends and neighbors. If this email was forwarded to you, consider subscribing to receive Braddock District news and updates.