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07.16.2026
Dear Neighbor,
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The June 22 microburst lasted only minutes, but for many of our neighbors, its effects will be felt for a long time to come. There are few things as disorienting and painful as watching your home, the place where you're supposed to feel safest, damaged or upended in an instant. Recovery isn't only about repairing roofs, clearing fallen trees, and replacing what was lost. It's also about the sleepless nights, the anxiety, the grief, and the quiet emotional weight that families carry long after the debris is hauled away.
I want every resident affected by this storm to know that you have been seen, and you have not been forgotten. The stress and trauma of suddenly losing your sense of security at home is real, and the toll it takes on our mental and emotional health matters every bit as much as the physical damage to our properties.
Last week, I joined Fairfax County agency leaders, the Braddock District Council, Delegate Laura Jane Cohen, and representatives from Chairman Jeff McKay's office for a virtual Town Hall to talk through the ongoing recovery effort and answer residents' questions about available resources and next steps.
I'm especially grateful for the extraordinary breadth of County staff and agencies who showed up for our community. Representatives from the Department of Emergency Management and Security, the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Land Development Services, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, and many other agencies came together to share updates on debris removal, property damage, permitting, utility restoration, and the services available to residents still recovering. The dedication of these teams, often working behind the scenes and around the clock, is a reminder of how much quiet, tireless effort goes into caring for a community in crisis. To every staff member, first responder, utility crew, volunteer, and neighbor who stepped up for one another: thank you.
Some of the most meaningful moments of the Town Hall came from residents themselves when neighbors shared what they've been through, asked hard questions, and offered thoughtful ideas for how the County can strengthen communication, coordination, and preparedness before, during, and after severe weather. That feedback is invaluable, and it directly shapes the work ahead.
I also want to be honest with you about where things stand. Because the microburst was so localized, the affected neighborhoods do not meet the threshold to qualify for state or federal disaster assistance, even though the damage within that smaller footprint was severe, and many families are still facing significant cleanup costs and difficult repairs. I believe we should relook at this given extreme weather events and climate change. I've already begun conversations with our state delegate about revisiting Virginia's emergency-assistance requirements. As severe weather grows more frequent and more intense, our disaster-relief rules need to catch up, especially for storms that concentrate immense damage over a small area. Our neighbors shouldn't fall through the cracks simply because a storm was powerful but contained. I am also looking into what additional resources and support we can provide locally.
In the meantime, I've worked to bring relief closer to home. Following the Town Hall, I introduced a Joint Board Matter with Chairman Jeff McKay, and this Tuesday the Board approved my proposal to temporarily waive disposal fees for residents impacted by the storm. From July 15 through August 5, affected residents can dispose of storm-damaged debris at the I-66 Transfer Station and the I-95 Landfill at no cost. This waiver applies only to private residents affected by the microburst - not to contractors or commercial hauling companies. I'm grateful to the Board for its support, and I hope it offers some meaningful, practical relief as our neighbors continue to rebuild. You'll find more information and resource links below.
If you missed the Town Hall or would like to watch it again, the full video is available on our YouTube channel.
By working together and continuing to advocate for the resources and improvements our community needs, we can build a stronger, safer, and more resilient Braddock District.
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A Little Summer Joy in Braddock
Even in a season of hard work and recovery, there's still room for joy. This summer, Braddock has plenty of it.
| | Battle of The Bands is Back - Calling All Musicians | | |
I'm thrilled to bring back Battle of the Bands as two special summer concerts at Lake Accotink Park and we're looking for six bands ready to take the stage. Best of all, the audience helps crown the winners.
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Thursday, August 14 | 6:00–8:00 p.m. Six bands perform; with your votes, we narrow the field.
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Thursday, August 21 | 6:00–8:00 p.m. The top three return to battle it out for the title.
Every participating band takes home a Sweetwater gift card, with extra prizes for the top three finalists. The winner earns a headlining spot at the 2027 Braddock Summer Nights Concert Series. Who knows? The next Dave Grohl might be discovered right here in the Braddock District.
Groups must include at least two members, at least one vocalist, and at least one instrumentalist, with preference given to bands whose members mostly live in Fairfax County. All genres are welcome - just submit two recorded tracks (covers are fine). Download the registration form and submit by July 24, 2026 (NEW DATE!)
Questions? Email braddockevents@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Even if you don't play, you can help make this happen! Please forward this to a musician you know - the garage band down the street, the coworker who gigs on weekends, your kid's music teacher, or that friend who's always talking about getting the band back together. In a moment when so much can feel heavy and divided, music has a way of reminding us what we share, and bringing neighbors together.
| | With gratitude for this commuity, | | Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer | | |
In this issue:
- Microburst Storm Resources
- Extreme Heat Resources
- Rachna in the Community
- Community Happenings
- Notes from the Boardroom
- Housing Updates
- Education Updates
- Environment and Parks Updates
- Public Safety Updates
- Resources for Older Adults
- Land Use Updates
- Pet Adoption Corner
| | Microburst Storm Resources | Your Guide to Navigating Available County Resources After the Burke Microburst Storm | |
In case you missed last week's newsletter, we are reprinting the list of resources for those in the Burke community effected by the June 22 Microburst Storm.
This list has been compiled from the websites and phone numbers provided during the meeting by the many county and state agencies that joined us on July 8.
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Storm Recovery & Emergency Information
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Tree Damage & Property Cleanup
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Property Damage & Permits
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Community Assistance & Human Services
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Homeowners Associations & Consumer Assistance
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If you need additional assistance that is not addressed by the resources above, please don't hesitate to contact the Braddock District Supervisor's Office. My team and I remain committed to helping our community recover and will continue working with our county, state, and community partners throughout the recovery process.
Braddock Office Adress: 9002 Braddock Road, Burke VA, 22015
Braddock Office Email: braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov
Braddock Office Phone: (703) 425-9300
| Town Hall Video Recording with Captions | |
For those of you who missed the virtual town hall, our office has uploaded a video recording of the meeting with captions available on our YouTube channel: Braddock District Supervisor hosts a Teams Town Hall on the Microburst Storm - July 8, 2026
| The Fairfax County Heat Plan Goes into Effect | |
Fairfax County activates its heat plan when the National Weather Service issues a Heat Advisory, Extreme Heat Watch, or Extreme Heat Warning. During these periods, residents can cool off at designated County facilities during regular operating hours, including libraries, community centers, recreation centers, and human services offices. Residents are encouraged to confirm facility hours before visiting, as unexpected closures may occur. Cooling center locations are available through Fairfax County's online Cooling Centers Map.
Several programs are also available to assist eligible residents with staying cool at home. The Cooling Assistance Program can help with electric bills, security deposits, air conditioning repairs, and cooling equipment for qualifying households. Older adults may also qualify for the Senior Cool Care Program, which provides fans to eligible residents age 60 and older. In addition, the AC Rescue Program offers cooling equipment assistance to households that do not qualify for other programs.
Remember to drink plenty of water, limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, check on older neighbors and vulnerable residents, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
For additional resources, cooling center locations, and information on available assistance programs, visit Fairfax County's Extreme Heat Resources webpage.
| Northern Virginia Affordable Housing Commission | |
This past Monday, I was honored to join leaders from across Northern Virginia for an important conversation about expanding affordable, accessible, and inclusive housing opportunities for people with disabilities.
Hosted by the City of Fairfax in partnership with The Arc of Northern Virginia, the meeting brought together local and state government, nonprofit, faith, and community leaders to begin building a regional coalition focused on addressing the growing need for inclusive housing. I appreciated the thoughtful discussion around innovative housing solutions, strong cross-sector partnerships, and creating communities where people with developmental disabilities can live, thrive, and fully participate alongside their neighbors.
This is an important conversation, and I look forward to continuing this work with our regional partners to help ensure Fairfax County remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to call our community home.
| Local Restaurant Owners Meet and Greet | |
One of the things I love about my job is being able to listen to constituents and stakeholders on a variety of topics. An important conversation we can have right now is with the people who keep our economy strong: our local and small business owners. They are the heart of our neighborhoods - the restaurants where we gather, the shops we count on, the entrepreneurs who take risks to build something lasting. And as we continue to grow our own strong and resilient local economy where the federal government is less at the center and more of a plus factor - there is no substitute for hearing directly from the people doing that work.
That's exactly why I appreciated the chance, along with state Senator Saddam Salim, to hear directly from some of our local restaurant owners. Understanding what our small businesses are up against, such as rising costs, staffing challenges, construction related red tape, and an uncertain economic climate, is critical to my work in the County.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every restaurant owner from across Northern Virginia who joined us. Your participation, your ideas, and your commitment to working together made this gathering truly meaningful.
A sincere thank you also to Kiran and the entire Bourbon Boulevard team for opening your doors and so graciously hosting us.
And a big thank you to Vishwa and Guru for sponsoring the delicious food that brought everyone together. Your hospitality is deeply appreciated.
| | Braddock Nights Concert - Mariachi Los Amigos | | |
Kick off your weekend with our Braddock Nights Concert, featuring Mariachi Los Amigos, this Friday evening from 7:30-8:30 at Lake Accotink Park, 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield, VA 22150. Enjoy a free outdoor concert filled with great music, family-friendly fun, and a wonderful chance to connect with neighbors.
Mariachi music emerged from the ranches and small towns of western central Mexico. As Mexico’s population became more and more urban in the twentieth century, so did mariachi music. Mexican radio, recordings, cinema, and television featured mariachi music, and the music spread to all corners of Mexico and beyond. The electronic media and immigration from Mexico has made mariachi music an important form of musical expression in the United States. There are more than 20 major mariachi festivals around the U.S., and mariachi ensembles are found today in the majority of states. With the Washington, DC area as a base, Mariachi Los Amigos has played for a wide variety of events, from weddings, baptisms and quinceañeras, to shopping center promotions, to Presidential state dinners and inaugurations. Whatever the occasion, they play the music they love the most, the “straight-ahead” mariachi sound.
To check out all the upcoming Braddock Nights Concerts, check out the Fairfax County Park Authority's Braddock Nights website.
| | Arts in the Parks Children's Show - Rocknoceros | | |
Looking for a fun family activity this weekend? Join us for the Arts in the Parks Children's Show, featuring Rocknoceros, this Saturday morning from 10:00-10:45 at Wakefield Park/Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA 22003, where children can enjoy a free, interactive performance in the beautiful outdoors while making lasting summer memories with family and friends.
Rocknoceros has entertained tens of thousands of families across the country for decades, bringing their talent to stages including Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Since forming in 2005, the band has won nine Washington Area Music Awards and has found its way into the hearts and homes of music lovers of all ages with their infectious melodies, playful humor, and family-friendly rock sound.
To check out all of the upcoming Arts in the Parks Children's Shows, check out the Fairfax County Park Authority's Arts in the Parks website.
| | The World Cup Fun isn't Over Yet! | | |
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is still going strong through July 19, so there's plenty of time left to soak up the excitement. This tournament brings together nations from around the globe in a celebration of sport, teamwork, and international pride, and in a community as wonderfully diverse as ours, residents are cheering on teams from every corner of the world. It's a joyful reminder of the global connections that make Braddock special.
Looking for a place to watch the action? Fairfax provides a calendar with several watch parties.
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Library Events
Come and partake in the wonderful activities happening at the Kings Park and Burke Centre Libraries this week.
A full listing of library activities throughout Fairfax County may be found on the Library Calendar.
| | Burke Centre - Colonial Game Day: Celebrating America's 250th Birthday | | |
Step back in time at Colonial Games Day at Burke Centre Library as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday! Families are invited to try their hand at classic games enjoyed by children over 200 years ago, including hoop rolling, ring toss, marbles, jump rope, dominoes, checkers, and sack races. Drop in to celebrate with history, play, and old-fashioned entertainment!
NEW: This event will be a combination of indoor and outdoor activities. Don't forget your things like water & sunblock!
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Location: Burke Centre Meeting Room 116, Burke Centre Meeting Room 117
| | Burke Centre - Library Laser Tag | |
Play laser tag in the library after hours! This high-tech, realistic "battle" action is safe, energizing, and fun. Game coaches will set up the playing field, instruct and prepare players for the game, and referee the fun.
This program is appropriate for teens ages 12-18. Registration is required.
Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Library Branch: Burke Centre Library
| Kings Park - Poetry Workshop with Dr. Casey Catherine Moore | |
Join us to "Unearth A Story" with Dr. Casey Catherine Moore! Attendees will enjoy an hour long workshop beginning with a grounding exercise and icebreaker to get into the poetry mindset. All will then enjoy a poetry reading by Dr. Casey Catherine Moore and then assist in creating a nature themed group program with all attendees.
Open to adults. Registration is encouraged to receive a reminder email and updates if needed. Walk-in attendees are also welcome.
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Time: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Location: Kings Park Meeting Room
| Kings Park - Science Heroes: Digging It! | | |
Unearth your love for science in this fun and interactive S.T.E.M. show for the whole family. With help from audience volunteers, we’ll conduct exciting experiments about the changing states of matter, pressure, and more — while raising a shovel to scientists who work with dirt! If you don’t already love science, you’ll really ‘dig it’ after seeing Science Heroes in action!
Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Kings Park Meeting Room
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Each Board meeting begins with presentations to residents and organizations who we wish to honor for their work. Tuesday’s meeting was no different. One of our presentations was to Bryna Helfer, who has been running the Spring Hill Adapted Aquatics program at the Spring Hill Rec Center for 35 years. My son Jake learned to swim because of Adapted Aquatics, eventually joining swim club and participating in the Special Olympics, thanks to dedicated educators like Ms. Helfer.
We also recognized the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Just as I did in last week’s Beacon, at this Tuesday’s presentation I recounted the incredible work of Judy Heumann, a trailblazer in the disability rights movement.
In official business, we approved the submission of requests for road project funding through Virginia’s SmartScale program. One of the projects is Phase II of the Braddock Road Multimodal Improvements Project. It is my hope that VDOT approves funds to continue the Project. Phase I is already approved and covers the section from Ravensworth Road to Southampton Street. Phase II will complete the project to just beyond Guinea Road. I will continue to advocate for this critical project and keep the community informed whenever we have updates.
The Board also authorized two public hearings to take place on August 25 to consider the creation or expansion of two Parking Districts: one expansion of a Residential Permit Parking District (RPPD) in Lake Braddock, and one Community Parking District (CPD) in the Martin’s Pointe neighborhood off of Zion Drive. The RPPD would restrict parking to residents only, whereas the CPD would restrict the parking of boats, trailers, and other such vehicle types. If you’d like to comment on these, you can email my office or participate int the public hearings in person, by phone, or by pre-recorded video.
| | One Fairfax - County-Owned Land Becomes a Site for Student and Senior Housing | |
One University recently earned national recognition in the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy's Land Lines publication for its innovative use of public land to help create more affordable housing opportunities.
Located adjacent to George Mason University, One University is an innovative mixed-use development that demonstrates how public land can be leveraged to expand affordable housing. The project transformed a former 46-unit affordable housing community into a vibrant campus featuring 240 affordable homes, student housing, and office space for the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority. By pairing affordable housing with student housing, the development created a financially sustainable model that has gained national recognition for its creative approach to addressing the housing shortage.
Fairfax County continues to expand its commitment to affordable housing, building on its 2022 decision to double its goal to 10,000 new affordable homes by 2034 while ensuring no net loss of existing affordable units. With median home values exceeding $760,000 and rents continuing to rise, the County has increasingly focused on developing affordable housing on publicly owned land near transit, jobs, and community amenities. Following the success of the One University development, the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) is now evaluating additional county-owned sites—including libraries, community facilities, and park-and-ride lots—for future housing opportunities.
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One of the County's newest developments, Fairfax Crest, is nearing completion on underutilized parking lots adjacent to the Fairfax County Government Center. The project will provide 279 affordable apartments for households earning 30 to 70 percent of the Area Median Income, along with a childcare center, public plaza, 15,000 square feet of community space, and energy-efficient features designed to reduce utility costs. The County's goal is to ensure residents spend no more than 30 percent of their income on housing, helping reduce the financial burden faced by many families.
Fairfax County has paired innovative financing with long-term stewardship by retaining ownership of the land through 99-year ground leases while partnering with private developers. The County supported Fairfax Crest with $23.5 million in bonds, $25 million from its Blueprint Fund, tax credits, and additional state funding. As of early 2026, Fairfax County had delivered 1,373 affordable homes toward its 10,000-unit goal, with 2,470 additional units across 11 projects under construction or in the development pipeline, demonstrating continued progress toward expanding affordable housing opportunities throughout the County.
You can read the full Lincoln Institute of Land Policy article, “A New Ground Lease on Life for Fairfax Public Land,” here: A New Ground Lease on Life: In Virginia, County-Owned Land Becomes a Site for Student and Senior Housing - Lincoln Institute of Land Policy
| 2025 Demographic Reports Provide Insight on Growth, Housing Trends and More | |
Fairfax County’s population and housing inventory continued to grow during 2024, while median home values climbed over 6% between January 2024 and January 2025, according to the newly released Demographic Reports 2025.
The annual report provides a snapshot of Fairfax County as of January 1, 2025, with estimates and forecasts on population, households and housing units, along with data on home values and development activity. Information is broken down by geographic areas such as supervisory districts, towns, zip codes and census tracts.
"These demographic reports provide the localized data necessary to shape policies, plan intelligently and support the evolving needs of Fairfax County’s residents and businesses," says Phil Hagan, director of the Department of Management and Budget.
The Demographic Reports 2025, the Demographic Interactive Mapper and other demographic resources are available on the Fairfax County Website.
| Fairfax Crest Construction Update | |
Construction continues to make steady progress, with several major elements of the project nearing completion. Paver installation, mural painting, and the installation of recreational equipment in the courtyard are largely finished, while crews focus on final details in the north building and parking garage. The project remains on track for anticipated completion and occupancy in early fall. No road closures or temporary detours are expected this month.
Interested in living at Fairfax Crest? Apply Online.
| How First-Time Homebuyers Can Get a $50,000 Down Payment Loan | |
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) offers down payment loans to qualified individuals for first-time home purchases. Up to $50,000 is available for down payment assistance to help remove barriers to homeownership. These loans are made possible from Virginia Housing.
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Check your eligibility: Households with incomes at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) and who meet other requirements are eligible to apply. All details are on the website.
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Contact a Virginia Housing-approved lender: The lender submits the application to the FCRHA on behalf of the buyer, and the FCRHA processes applications as they are received.
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Get pre-approved: Buyers who are pre-approved receive a loan commitment and complete homebuyer education and counseling. Next, they work with the lender and real estate agent to obtain a ratified sales contract to purchase a home in Fairfax County.
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Close on your new home! Once you have a ratified contract to purchase, your lender will submit the complete application package for final approval. After it is approved, the purchase of your new home is coordinated with the lender, Fairfax County staff, and the title company.
Tip: consider the options for how you would use a loan: A Fairfax County Down Payment Loan may be used to reduce your first mortgage principal amount; pay reasonable and allowable closing costs; pay points to reduce the mortgage interest rate; or buy out private mortgage insurance (PMI). Work with your lender to determine the best use of the loan for you and your household.
Learn more and apply today
| Adopt-A-Student School Supply and Backpack Drive | |
Volunteer and Partner Services is excited to once again partner with Roonga, this time for their annual School Supply and Backpack Drive! In order to get started, all you need to do is log onto the live site.
July 1 through August 7, 2026, you are invited to Adopt-A-Student and help them start the school year prepared and confident.
Guidelines:
Volunteer and Partner Servies is asking for a donation of a brand-new backpack and grade-specific school supplies for each student you adopt. For your convenience, they have included the school supply lists recommended by Fairfax County Public Schools for each grade level. Please refer to these lists when shopping to ensure students receive the items they need.
When you drop off your donation, it is required that you include a securely attached tag with:
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The student’s Roonga ID, and
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Their caseworker’s name.
Important Reminders:
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Check the student’s region. Please make sure you note which region the student lives in so you know which regional office to use for drop-off.
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Coordinate directly with the caseworker. Please contact the caseworker for the student you adopt, not the main program number, for questions, drop-off details, and confirmations.
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Donate new supplies only: All backpacks and school supplies must be brand new—we’re unable to accept used or gently used items, regardless of their condition.
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The Deadline is August 7: Drop off or deliver the backpacks and school supplies to the caseworker by appointment only by Friday, August 7, 2026. Please do not show up to the office without first speaking to the assigned caseworker.
Thank you for helping Fairfax County children start the school year equipped, encouraged, and supported. Your generosity makes a real difference in their lives.
| Environment and Parks Updates | Public EV Charging Stations Coming to Fairfax County Government Center | |
To support Fairfax County’s carbon reduction goals for its own operations and the whole community, the County has begun installing EV charging stations for public and fleet vehicles at the Government Center. These EV charging stations will be the first at the Government Center for public use.
The County will install six dual chargers for twelve parking spaces with an additional six dual charger bases for future use. There will also be four single chargers for ADA-accessible parking spaces. Construction on the project began on June 29, 2026, and will continue through October 2026. During construction, there will be partial closures in parking lots A and B.
This project is a key step in expanding EV infrastructure at County facilities and supporting cleaner transportation options for employees, visitors, and County operations.
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Stay Cool, Stay Safe with AC Rescue
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As summers get hotter, having a safe, cool place to live is more important than ever. Fairfax County’s AC Rescue program is stepping in to help residents who are living in dangerously hot homes but don’t qualify for other cooling programs.
Launched as a pilot in summer 2024 and now a permanent county program, AC Rescue fills gaps in cooling services by offering free window and portable air conditioning units or limited repairs to central HVAC systems to residents of all ages and abilities, year-round, and to a wider range of household incomes. The program is open to households making up to 80% Area Median Income ($85,452 combined annual income for a household of two) who have no or poorly operating air conditioning equipment. The program also provides professional installation of the AC units and electric assessments to ensure the equipment can be used safely and reliably.
AC Rescue is operated by the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) as part of the Resilient Fairfax initiative, in partnership with the nonprofit Rebuilding Together-AFF. Together, they connect households to other repair services when needed.
Residents who need help can call Rebuilding Together at 703-528-1999. For general information about AC Rescue, visit the program webpage or call (703) 324-7262.
| Wayfinding Signs Make It Easier to Explore the 66 Parallel Trail | |
Whether you're commuting, exercising or exploring Fairfax County, the 66 Parallel Trail offers a convenient way to walk, bike and roll alongside Interstate 66. The 20-mile trail stretches from Centreville to Dunn Loring/Merrifield, and new wayfinding signs at key access points make it easier to find the trail, navigate the route and connect to other regional trails.
Recently installed signs in Centreville, Fair Lakes, Fair Oaks and Oakton direct users to trail access points, nearby destinations and connections to the W&OD Trail, Fairfax County Parkway Trail and Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail. The trail also links residents to major transit options, including the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU and Dunn Loring-Merrifield Metrorail stations, the Monument Drive Transit Center and the Stringfellow Road Park & Ride.
Additional improvements are on the way. Construction on the remaining trail segment through Random Hills Park is expected to finish this summer, and VDOT plans to replace the interim trail between Blake Lane and Nutley Street with a permanent shared-use path beginning next year. Whether you're traveling to work or enjoying the outdoors, the 66 Parallel Trail continues to provide safer, more connected transportation and recreation opportunities across Fairfax County.
| Real Time Crime Center Expands AI-Powered Emergency Response Capabilities | |
The Fairfax County Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), in partnership with the Department of Public Safety Communications and the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, has implemented new artificial intelligence technology to enhance emergency response by identifying critical information from 911 calls in real time. The initiative also permanently assigns Fire and Rescue personnel to the RTCC, strengthening coordination between police, fire, and emergency communications.
The AI system continuously transcribes 911 calls and alerts RTCC personnel to qualifying incidents, allowing a Drone as First Responder (DFR) to deploy while dispatchers continue gathering information. Responders can receive real-time aerial intelligence before arriving on scene, and callers may also choose to share live video, photos, or their location through a secure link to provide additional situational awareness.
County leaders say the technology is designed to assist, not replace, 911 professionals by supporting faster, more informed emergency response. Officials emphasized that the initiative reflects Fairfax County’s continued commitment to innovation, strong interagency partnerships, and improving public safety through responsible use of technology.
Register your camera with Connect Fairfax County to help FCPD solve crimes, locate missing people, and support investigations.
| Braddock District Land Use and Environment Committee Announcement | |
The Braddock Land Use and Environment (BLUE) Committee will not hold a public meeting on its usual third Tuesday of the month for July, since it held a special, virtual public meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
The next meeting of the BLUE Committee will be held on September 15. Please stay tuned for updated meeting details to be published in our late August newsletter.
| | Join the Braddock District Land Use and Environment Committee | | |
Are you or is someone you know interested in being involved in local land use decision-making? The Braddock Land Use and Environment (BLUE) Committee has a few membership seats open for Braddock District residents who want to learn about and participate in the County’s land use process.
The BLUE Committee, founded in 2012, reviews proposals and provides recommendations to the Braddock District Planning Commissioner and the Braddock District Supervisor on development and redevelopment projects, while focusing on the goals of the County’s Comprehensive Plan, One Fairfax and Active Fairfax Transportation Plans, among others. It is a self-selected, independent, nonpartisan, and volunteer advisory body that is comprised of interested citizens who live in the Braddock District.
The Committee’s public meetings are usually held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. virtually via Teams or in-person at Braddock Hall, located at 9002 Burke Lake Road, Burke, VA 22015 (at the back of the Kings Park Library). Committee members and members of the public may also attend Committee meetings via Teams or in-person meetings.
Committee members are asked to commit to at least one year of service and serve on at least one subcommittee. If you are interested in joining BLUE, but want to learn more, attend one of our meetings to observe our work and talk with our current members.
An application may be downloaded here or may be requested by calling (703) 425-9300.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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Chelsea is an elegant senior lady, weighing in at 8.5lbs and dressed in a classic black-and-white coat with adorable "mittens." She's at her happiest in a quiet, calm environment where she can truly relax and feel safe. Chelsea can be a bit fearful at first, and she needs some time and gentle patience to build confidence and trust in new surroundings. Once she settles in, her soft, sweet side begins to shine. Chelsea is looking for a peaceful home with adults and older children (13+) who will respect her space and let her blossom at her own pace. She needs to be the only pet so she can have all the cozy spots and gentle affection to herself! If you have a calm household and a soft spot for a sensitive soul, Chelsea could be the perfect companion to curl up beside you and enjoy a quiet, fulfilling life.
This pet is eligible for an Adoption Audition! What is an Adoption Audition? It's a 14-day, no-strings-attached, trial adoption period. You can take this pet home to try it out! Interested? Come to the shelter any time during open hours and talk to one of our Customer Care staff!
Be sure to check the "shelter information" box on the listing to see if the pet is located at our Fairfax Campus (4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Road, Lorton). Then, come in during our open hours! Both of our locations are open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 12-5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 12-7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on our adoption process, including requirements and fees, visit: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalservices/adopt
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