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06.25.2026
Dear Neighbor,
| | Monday evening brought one of the worst storms many of us can remember. A microburst tore through Burke with winds up to 90 miles per hour, hitting the Lake Royal area especially hard, downing trees and power lines, blocking roads, and damaging homes and cars across our neighborhoods. | |
I've been out in the affected areas, and what I've seen has stayed with me. Yes, the damage is heartbreaking. But everywhere I went, I also saw neighbors checking on neighbors, sharing generators, and showing up for one another without being asked. That's the Braddock District I know and love.
Thankfully, despite the widespread destruction, there have been no reports of fatalities or serious injuries. The National Weather Service determined the damage came from a powerful downburst rather than a tornado.
I'm deeply grateful to the Fairfax County Police, Fire and Rescue, and Public Works teams, to the Dominion Energy crews, and to the countless volunteers and neighbors who stepped up the moment the storm passed. They've worked tirelessly to clear debris, restore power, and keep residents safe—and we owe them so much.
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County and state teams are on the ground providing support right now, and my office is actively looking into what additional resources we can bring to bear for families still cleaning up and recovering. If there's any way we can help you, please call our office. That's what we're here for.
In the meantime, please stay cautious around downed trees and power lines, and see the Storm Service Resources section below for information on how to and report any hazards to Fairfax County's non-emergency line or Dominion Energy directly.
We'll get through this the way Burke always does - together.
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Now for some sunshine!
I'm thrilled to share that the Braddock Nights Summer Concert Series and our Children's Arts in the Park Series are almost here, and this year's lineup is our best yet!
We kick things off TONIGHT, on June 26, in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority and its supporters, and there really is something for everyone. Get ready for crowd-favorite tribute bands, the beloved Kings Park Band, one of the last neighborhood bands of its kind, and a whole mix of genres, from blues and rock to the irresistible sounds of live Mariachi. Bring a blanket, bring the family, and come dance with us.
Our youngest residents have something to look forward to as well! The Children's Arts in the Park Series returns Saturday mornings from June 27 through August 21, packed with creative, hands-on fun all summer long. This year we've expanded the lineup with even more events, plus a brand-new headliner I can't wait to tell you about.
Be sure to mark your calendars, check out the full schedule, and save the graphic above for complete concert and event information!
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Battle of the Bands is coming back to Braddock!
That's right, a two-night showdown at Lake Accotink Park, and you get a say in who wins. Our audience will help choose which bands advance to the finals, so come on out, cheer loud, and be part of the action!
Thursday, August 14 | 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Six bands take the stage. With your help, we'll narrow the field.
Thursday, August 21 | 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The top three return to battle it out for the title.
And here's the best part: every participating band takes home a prize, with expanded prizes for our top three finishers.
And who knows? Maybe the next Dave Grohl will be discovered right here in the Braddock District!
Eligibility Requirements
Participating groups must include:
· At least two members
· At least one vocalist
· At least one member who plays a musical instrument
· Preference will be given to groups in which a majority of members reside in Fairfax County
Music: All genres welcome! Submit two recorded tracks (cover songs okay, but original music gets priority) as an .mp3, .mp4, link to a public music site, or YouTube video (our preferred format).
Download the registration form and submit by July 15, 2026. Questions? Email braddockevents@fairfaxcounty.gov
The winner of Battle of the Bands will get to headline a summer concert series spot next year!
Why this matters
It might seem like just a summer concert series, but it's so much more than that. In a moment when so much feels heavy and divided, music, the arts, and sports have a way of reminding us what we share. Just look at the World Cup: all those heartwarming stories of strangers from across the globe celebrating together, united by something joyful. That's the same magic we're after right here at home, with neighbors gathering, kids creating, and communities connecting.
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Speaking of the arts: come admire the artist display right outside the Braddock District Office at 9002 Burke Lake Road (the backside of the Kings Park Library building). It's a beautiful reminder of the creativity that lives in our community, so stop by anytime!
Mark your calendars, save the schedule, and let's make this a summer to remember. See you out there!
| | Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer | | |
In this issue:
- Storm Service Resources
- Community Happenings
- Pet Adoption Corner
- Notes from the Board Room
- Education Updates
- Environment and Parks Updates
- Public Safety Updates
- Land Use Updates
- Resources for Older Adults
- Transportation Updates
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Several neighborhoods across the Braddock District were impacted by a powerful microburst this Monday, causing damage to trees, homes, businesses, and power lines. Our thoughts are with everyone affected — especially those facing damage, outages, or uncertainty. I’m grateful for this strong community looking out for one another.
Our hardworking first responders and utility crews were on the scene working to keep residents safe and restore power as quickly as possible.
Here are some resources to help if you’ve been impacted:
Report outages and track restoration times on Dominion Energy’s mobile apps, on their website, or by calling 866-DOM-HELP (866) 366-4357.
Stay at least 30 feet away from downed poles and power lines and report it by calling 866-DOM-HELP.
Report downed trees on the roads to VDOT at (800) 367-7623.
In case of emergency, call 911 -- or if you’d like to contact the non-emergency line, call (703) 691-2131.
The Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department, Department of Emergency Management & Security, and the Red Cross are here to assist those who may have been displaced.
Visit the Fairfax County Burke Microburst Incident Webpage
I’m glad that there are no reports of injury among our community members or first responders. Stay safe out there!
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Virginia’s policy for removing fallen trees is based on case law, Virginia Supreme Court case Cline v. Dunlora South, LLC (2012). If a healthy tree falls because of wind, ice or another natural event, it is considered an “act of God,” and each property owner is responsible for the cleanup and damage to their own property, usually through their homeowner’s insurance.
While landowners do not have to inspect or remove trees that appear normal, a tree’s owner is responsible if their tree was clearly dead, diseased or hazardous and the owner knew, or should have known, about the problem tree. Negligence must be proven for the tree’s owner to be held liable.
If a tree falls on your own property, you as the property owner are advised to document the damage, check your insurance policy, and take photos of any signs the tree was unsafe.
If you need to report a tree that is still standing, but appears to be hazardous, please visit this County website for guidance on who to contact regarding the tree.
| | Step Up to the Plate and Celebrate Wakefield Park Softball Field Improvements | |
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to a ribbon-cutting celebration recognizing recent upgrades to the softball fields at Wakefield Park on Tuesday, June 30 at 6 p.m. The event will be held on field eight at Wakefield Park, located at 8100 Braddock Road in Annandale.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests are invited to stay for a friendly girls softball game. Families, friends, players and fans are encouraged to bring their team spirit and help celebrate this exciting investment in the community’s athletic facilities.
The celebration will highlight improvements to Wakefield’s diamond fields, including renovated playing surfaces and amenities, upgraded LED lighting, new dugouts, new fencing, added batting cages, and new picnic tables and bleachers.
As part of the project, field eight has been converted into a state-of-the-art synthetic turf surface. With these upgrades, Wakefield Park now offers expanded opportunities for play in a variety of weather conditions and extending the usable season for local teams.
For more information, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.
| Workhouse Arts Center - Open Call for Exhibitions | |
Workhouse Arts Center's open call for proposals facilitates submissions from parties interested in having a solo or group exhibition in the Workhouse Arts Center’s Building W-16, in the McGuire Woods, Vulcan, and Muse Galleries.
Winter 2026 review
Opens: September 26, 2025
Deadline: January 4, 2026
Notification: February 13, 2026
Summer 2026 review
Opens: May 1, 2026
Deadline: July 12, 2026
Notification: July 31, 2026
Application fee: $30
Contact: Sarah Berry, Curator at SarahBerry@workhousearts.org
| Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards | |
Nominations are open for the 2026 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character
Awards.
This program honors youth, coaches, and parents for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Instituted by the Fairfax County Athletic Council, the program aims to support the tradition of amateur athletics in cultivating teamwork, leadership, good sportsmanship, and community service.
Awards are presented to a female athlete, male athlete, coach, and parent in each Supervisory District. Those who participated in youth athletics from Fall 2025 through Summer 2026 are eligible.
Complete the nomination form today to recognize deserving athletes, coaches, and parents from the Braddock District who have demonstrated extraordinary service in the athletic community while modeling the basic traits of good character. Nominations are due October 1, and the awards ceremony will be held on October 21.
| Help Shape the Future of the Pinn Community Center | |
The community is invited to participate in an engagement session to discuss future programming and services at David R. Pinn Community Center.
On May 5, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved the FY 2027 Budget. Due to challenging budget environment and declining attendance trends, the budget includes the phasing out of County-operated programing at the facility. NCS will work to transition the center to community partners that can continue to provide programs, activities and services to the community.
The center will remain open and continue offering current programming through end of summer 2026. Before engaging potential partners, NCS will host an engagement session in early July to hear from the community members on their needs, priorities and goals for these important community space.
The community is invited to attend in person or via Zoom link to learn more and share their thoughts:
David R. Pinn Community Center Community Engagement Session
» Flyer - English Flyer - Spanish
Thursday, July 2, 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
| Arlington - Healing Arts Workshop | | |
This week we're spotlighting Braddock District artist Brianna Camp, whose powerful exhibit "Flare: Finding a Sense of Place in the Chronically Ill Body" is currently on display at Mason Exhibitions Arlington.
Flare: Finding a Sense of Place in the Chronically Ill Body explores the concept of a flare, a sudden burst. Flares are ephemeral.
What is left when they dissipate? What happens in the space between? Large-scale self-portraits rendered in oil paint and corresponding poetry, respond to these questions. Flare is inspired by Royal Lake Park in Fairfax, Virginia. Royal Lake became significant to Camp, as nature can bring calm to her restless body on difficult days. Traversing the 1.8 -mile loop, through thick woods and along the water’s edge, began as a habitual coping mechanism and evolved into an almost spiritual ritual.
Brianna Camp is a visual artist living in Fairfax, Virginia. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in painting from George Mason University’s School of Art (2023). Camp’s paintings, murals, and drawings emphasize light and respond to the healing connection that can be facilitated through art. She recognizes art as a potential form of social action and as a tool to build community. Her site-specific works and murals often involve her peers and her local organizations. Through her portrait paintings, landscapes, and abstract works, she explores how her practice may also lead to personal growth and healing.
This philosophy comes full circle with Camp's Healing Arts Workshop this Friday, June 26, from 12–4pm at Mason Exhibitions Arlington (3601 North Fairfax Dr, Arlington, VA 22201). The exhibit's closing reception will be held on August 1 from 4–7pm.
To explore more of Brianna's work, visit briannacamp.com or follow her on Instagram @bripaints.
| | Goal! World Cup and Soccer Resources | | |
GOOOOAAAAAL!
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway through July 19, bringing together nations from around the globe in a celebration of sport, teamwork, and international pride.
In Fairfax County, our diverse community means residents will be cheering on teams from every corner of the world, making this tournament an especially exciting time to come together and celebrate our global connections.
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 taking place in 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.
| | Kings Park - Own Your Space: Self-Defense for Confidence and Safety | | |
It isn't just about fighting—it's about owning your space and standing strong. In this series, you will learn how to spot red flags, use your voice and body to stay safe, and practice real self-defense moves in a supportive and upbeat setting. Come ready to move and have fun while building real-life skills!
Led by the Black Wing Collective.
This is a teen program for ages 12-18. Registration is required.
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 10:30am - 11:30am
Location: Kings Park Meeting Room
| Kings Park - Rocknoceros Family Concert | |
Join local legends Rocknoceros for a music-filled summer reading performance. Listen to your favorite songs and dance along with the dynamic duo of Williebob and Boogie Bennie for a family-friendly musical extravaganza. Co-sponsored by the Friends of George Mason Regional Library.
This program is appropriate for all ages. Seats are limited.
Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Kings Park Meeting Room
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Burke Centre - Manga - Learn how to draw an anime/manga character!
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Learn to draw an anime/manga character through step-by-step instructions provided by illustrator and comic book artist Orion Zangara.
Ages 12-18.
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Burke Centre Meeting Room 116, Burke Centre Meeting Room 117
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Burke Centre - Lafayette's Legacy: A Spy Game for Teens
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Can you save history before the clock runs out? Imagine a local landmark is slated for demolition and only your team can prove its link to the legendary Revolutionary War double agent, James Armistead Lafayette. You’ll use 18th century tools and spy craft to solve a series of puzzles and reveal the answer to an early American mystery.
Ages 12-18. Registration is Required.
Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
Time: 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Location: Burke Centre Meeting Room 116, Burke Centre Meeting Room 117
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Meet Tank, a big-hearted goofball ready for a fresh start. He came to the shelter through no fault of his own, and while we don't know much about his past, we do know he lived with a cat and loves people. Tank is a young, strong pup who already knows "sit" and is incredibly food-motivated-perfect for continued training. He leans in for pets, soaks up attention, and can get a little jumpy when excited, but it all comes from his joyful, affectionate personality. Playtime is Tank's happy place. With other dogs, Tank may need a bit more practice. He showed strong interest when meeting another dog and will benefit from slow introductions and guidance from a trainer to build positive social skills.
Tank is looking for a home ready to help him learn, explore, and grow. If you want a fun, loving companion who greets life with enthusiasm, Tank can't wait to meet you.
This pet is eligible for an Adoption Audition! What is an Adoption Audition? It's a 5 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
| | Notes from the Board Room | Robinson Girls Track and Field Team Recognition | |
June 23 was another Board of Supervisors meeting with special recognitions in the first half, followed by Board decisions and public hearings in the afternoon.
I was proud to honor the achievements of our student athletes, including Robinson Secondary School’s Girls Outdoor Track & Field team, which won the 2026 Virginia High School League Class 6 Outdoor State Championship, a first for Robinson! Two of Robinson’s team members won individual championships as well – Olivia Jones in the 400m, and Petra Gruendel in the 1600m race.
Other Braddock District-area individual champions included Lake Braddock Secondary’s Amelia Cole in the 100m hurdles, and West Springfield High’s Nicholas Bailey in the 400m competition.
| We also had a presentation of the A. Heath Onthank Memorial Award for Merit, which is the highest honor Fairfax County awards to its employees. I’m very proud of these County and Schools professionals, who are serving Braddock District and the County at large: | |
Ellen Volo, Opioid Response Manager at the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, was honored for her work to end substance use disorder in Fairfax County. Under Ellen’s leadership, Fairfax County sustained significant reductions in opioid fatalities, maintained zero fatal opioid overdoses among youth ages 0–17, expanded naloxone distribution and treatment access, and strengthened pathways to recovery for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder. She also led regional collaboration efforts across Northern Virginia to improve continuity of care following non-fatal overdoses, helping connect individuals to lifesaving treatment and recovery services more quickly and effectively.
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Amofa Agyekum, Assistant Building Supervisor at Braddock’s own Laurel Ridge Elementary School, was honored for bringing positivity and helping to foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all who enter the school. Amofa consistently exceeds expectations by maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for students, staff, and families. Through meaningful relationships and everyday acts of kindness, he fosters a strong sense of belonging and creates an uplifting atmosphere throughout the school. His dedication and commitment have made a lasting impact on the Laurel Ridge community, demonstrating the essential role that compassion, service, and leadership play in public education.
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Jennifer Cory, School-Based Technology Specialist at Annandale High School was congratulated for her efforts to assist students who needed remedial assistance to gain the necessary credits to graduate, including students facing hardship and those who are English language learners. Through her Saturday Academic Coaching program, Jennifer provided struggling students with free personalized academic support, meals, and a welcoming environment that helped keep students on track for graduation.
Jennifer also led the division’s ten-school Summer Credit Continuation Pilot Program, helping hundreds of students recover credits and remain on a path toward graduation. Her leadership extended beyond her assigned role as she coordinated staff, supported multiple schools, and ensured equitable access for multilingual learners and students facing academic challenges.
Congratulations to these three recipients for achieving this high honor!
| In Other Board Room News: | |
We approved the language for this year’s bond referenda. Once confirmed by the Circuit Court, that language will go onto the ballot for voter approval this November. As we’ve shared before, one of the items will be funding for the Park Authority to rebuild the Audrey Moore Rec Center.
In public hearings, the Board approved several items for public safety so that the County conforms with state law, one of which is a requirement for individuals under the age of 15 to wear a protective helmet while riding motorized or electric bikes, skateboards or scooters. As the use of these transport devices is on the rise, I’m glad we’re taking steps to keep our kids safe. For more about electric bike safety, read the County’s recent news post, E-Bikes Gain Speed – Here’s What to Know Sharing the Road
| | FCPS Summer Food Service Program: Summer Meals Are Here! | |
School is out, summer meals are in! Fairfax County Public Schools is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability or age, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided, on a first come, first serve basis, at the sites and times listed below. Children must remain onsite while consuming their meals.
No-cost meals are available for students at eligible sites. No-cost adult meals are also available at the following elementary schools: Braddock, Dogwood, Glen Forest, Hutchison, Hybla Valley, and London Towne.
No meals will be served on the July 3, 2026.
Families Can Eat Together
This year, thanks to generous support from Educate Fairfax, families may also receive one no-cost breakfast and lunch per adult at the following six sites: Braddock Elementary, Dogwood Elementary, Glen Forest Elementary, Hutchison Elementary, Hybla Valley Elementary, and London Towne Elementary.
| Environment and Parks Updates | Refresh, Relax, Repeat at Outdoor Water Parks and Splash Pads: Hours and Sensory Friendly Times | |
As the summer weather heats up, cool off at Fairfax County Park Authority’s water parks and splash pads. Spend the day cooling off and enjoy water play features sure to add enjoyment to the season:
The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston): Twist and splash your way through slides, sprays and the lazy river. Open weekends; daily hours begin June 20. Enjoy an extra hour on weekends with the park opening at 10 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, June 20 to Aug. 23. Bonus: Choose from a variety of spaces to rent — from "Funbrellas" to cabanas to bungalows — at this popular destination. Secure your spot in the shade and a place for your group to enjoy the park this summer. Get your rental early. Please note that rental fees do not include admission, so be sure to get your tickets in advance.
Our Special Harbor Spray Park (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria): An inclusive splash zone perfect for kids of all abilities. Open weekends; open daily June 20 through Aug. 23.
Martin Luther King Jr. Park Pool (8115 Fordson Road, Alexandria): A community pool featuring a brand-new splashpad for all ages. Come out to swim and play all summer at this community gem. Open weekends; open daily (except Tuesdays) June 20-Aug. 23.
Find park hours, seasonal openings and operating schedules by visiting the Operational Hours website.
The Park Authority also welcomes individuals and families who need spaces with reduced sensory input to attend a sensory friendly time at our water parks. Experience limited capacity, reduced sounds with louder water features turned off, and staff trained to respond to children with special needs. Come out to enjoy the following sensory friendly hours this summer. Regular entry fees apply.
The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole
- Tuesday, June 23, 10-11 a.m.
- Tuesday, July 21, 10-11 a.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 18, 10-11 a.m.
Our Special Harbor Spray Park
- Wednesdays, June 24-Aug. 19, 10-11 a.m.
Cub Run Rec Center Indoor Water Park
- Friday, July 17, 9-10 a.m.
- Friday, July 31, 9-10 a.m.
- Friday, Aug. 14, 9-10 a.m.
| Forget the Foam: Final EPS Food Foam Phase-out | |
On July 1, 2026, all Virginia food establishments must eliminate EPS food foam containers from their operations. The ban will apply to food establishments of any size, including restaurants, food trucks, cafeterias (including schools!), and caterers. Larger establishments with 20 or more locations already had to comply with the ban starting last year; the second phase encompasses everyone.
EPS, commonly known by one of its trademarked names, Styrofoam, is a plastic product made from petrochemicals. Although it is cheap and light and insulates well, it causes serious health and environmental harms. EPS breaks up in the environment into tinier and tinier crumbles, but it never actually breaks down. Hot food in EPS containers (like coffee, soup, or takeout meals) may become contaminated with toxic chemicals that leach into the food. Exposure to those chemicals can lead to hormone disruption and other health impacts.
What can you do? As a consumer, refuse EPS and other single-use items, bring your own reusable containers with you, and remind local businesses to phase out EPS products. If you are a food business owner, make a plan now to switch out any EPS foam takeout or beverage containers for reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives.
For more information, visit the Clean Fairfax web page on EPS as well as our partner website, Litter Free Virginia. Clean Fairfax encourages environmental stewardship and urban sustainability in Fairfax County, Virginia through education, programming and community involvement. Learn more at www.cleanfairfax.org and follow on social media: IG/Threads/Bluesky: @CleanFairfax and FB: @CleanFairfaxCouncil.
| Virginian Drought Condition is Worst in Nearly 20 Years | |
Virginia is experiencing its most severe drought since 2007, and Fairfax County is now under a Drought Warning advisory — meaning a significant drought event is considered imminent. Prolonged below normal rainfall, low soil moisture, record low stream flows in some river basins, and declining groundwater levels — especially in Northern Virginia — are all contributing to the current conditions.
Residents are urged to conserve water by cutting back on outdoor use, fixing leaks, and running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines. Dry conditions also increase fire risk, particularly from improperly discarded smoking materials, so smokers should follow “Sink It or Soak It!” guidance to fully extinguish cigarette butts.
Stay informed about changing conditions and related hazards by signing up for Fairfax Alerts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts.
| Fairfax Invasive Removal Alliance's YARD WATCH - Mimosa Tree (Albizia julibrissin) | |
The Mimosa tree is a native of China and was first introduced to the US in 1775 as an ornamental because of its pretty and showy flowers. It escapes gardens, and being a prolific seeder, quickly establishes itself in natural areas such as roadsides, ditches, open lots and stream banks. The seed pods can be carried by the stream which easily helps the Mimosa tree establish around untended stream banks. Identification information can be found here.
The Mimosa tree takes away space from native plants by being allelopathic, which means it spreads a chemical in the ground that inhibits the growth of other plants. Clumps of mimosa trees growing along roads can be easily found with very few native plants around them. It also regrows very quickly from a cut stump. The seed pods can be viable for up to ten years, making restoration very challenging.
To control the Mimosa tree from spreading, small seedlings can be dug up. However larger trees need to be treated with herbicide using methods such as basal bark spray, hack-and-squirt or foliar spray. For more information on herbicide application check this information provided by the North Carolina extension office here.
Native alternatives to the mimosa tree can be found here.
| Road Shark Wave 2 Hooks Unsafe Drivers | |
Wave 2 of the Fairfax County Police Department’s Road Shark traffic safety campaign concluded on June 14 after a week of focused enforcement efforts across Fairfax County. Conducted in partnership with the Virginia State Police (VSP), the high-visibility initiative targets speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, and other unsafe behaviors to improve roadway safety.
Between June 8 and June 14, officers issued 11,791 citations and warnings, including 5,740 citations and 6,051 warnings. For comparison, more than 8,250 citations and warnings were issued during Wave 2 of the 2025 campaign. These results highlight the continued importance of traffic safety and driver accountability across Fairfax County.
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The Road Shark campaign emphasizes coordinated, strategic enforcement efforts to deter dangerous driving. With increased patrols and visibility, FCPD police officers and VSP troopers are working to change driver behavior, improve public safety, and protect lives on our roads.
Road Shark remains a key part of the Department’s ongoing commitment to traffic safety and crash reduction efforts throughout Fairfax County.
Wave 3 of the Road Shark kicks off on August 10, 2026.
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Braddock District Land Use and Environment
Committee Meeting - Rescheduled for July 7th
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The Braddock Land Use and Environment (BLUE) Committee has revised the date for its regularly scheduled July meeting. The next meeting will be virtual and is now scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend by using the following Teams Meeting link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/214298432286096?p=lrbgoQTqb5lvo77J7M. (The meeting ID is 214 298 432 286 096, Passcode: EN9e9j2)
The public can also join the meeting by phone: +1 571-429-5982,,183729285#, Phone conference ID: 183 729 285#.
The agenda for the next meeting will cover the development planned for 4035 Ridge Top Road, Olley Lane property and the storage space expansion planned for 6100 Fred's Oak Road.
| Join the Braddock Land Use and Environment Committee | |
The Braddock Land Use and Environment (BLUE) Committee is looking for volunteers to join the committee to review and comment on land use, transportation, and environmental matters in the Braddock District.
The BLUE Committee was established in 2012 to review applications for proposed land use changes in the Braddock District and other matters relating to the local environment. They make recommendations to the Braddock District Planning Commissioner and the Braddock District Supervisor. 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 usually meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. virtually via Teams (see the online link in the article above), and also in-person at Braddock Hall, next to the Supervisor's office at 9002 Burke Lake Road, Burke, VA 22015, in the same building as the Kings Park Library. A virtual meeting option is also available. Committee meetings are open to the public and community members are welcome to attend.
Any resident of the Braddock District may apply for membership on the Committee. Terms are one year, from July 1 to June 30, and may be renewed annually. Members are asked to make a commitment to at least one year of service and to serve on at least one subcommittee. Those interested are encouraged to attend a meeting, learn about the Committee's work, and talk with current members.
An application may be downloaded here or may be requested by calling (703) 425-9300.
| Community Meeting Scheduled for Church of the Good Shepherd Comprehensive Plan Amendment | |
Community members are invited to participate in a virtual meeting regarding a proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment for the Church of the Good Shepherd property.
The meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 30, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. and will provide residents with an opportunity to review the staff report, ask questions, and share feedback on the proposal.
The proposed amendment would recommend single-family residential development on a portion of the Church's 3.12-acre property along Oley Lane. The site is currently planned for 1-2 dwelling units per acre, and the amendment would increase the planned density to 2-3 dwelling units per acre. No changes are proposed to the church building itself.
Residents can join the meeting virtually via Microsoft Teams. To learn more about the proposal or access meeting information, visit http://bit.ly/4zIoYtV.
For questions, contact the Department of Planning and Development at
(703) 324-1380 or email Miriam.Mousavi@fairfaxcounty.gov.
| Resources for Older Adults | Lifelong Learning Series - Senior Driver Safety & Mobility Seminar | |
Maintaining mobility is essential for independence, social connection, and quality of life. As we age, physical and cognitive changes can affect how safely and comfortably we drive, yet conversations about “driving retirement” often occur only after a crisis.
This informative session, presented by driver safety expert Kurt Gray, provides a proactive, supportive approach to understanding and managing the challenges aging drivers may face.
The seminar explores:
- How age-related changes can influence driving ability
- Proven strategies and self-regulation techniques that help seniors continue driving safely for as long as possible
- The role of family members and caregivers in decision-making and communication
- Mobility planning and community transportation options that support independence when driving is no longer the best choice
Attendees will leave with practical tools, credible resources, and increased confidence to approach driving decisions thoughtfully rather than reactively. Independence does not have to end when driving does.
Led by Kurt E. Gray who is the owner and principal consultant of KEG Consulting LLC and a former director of Driver Education & Training at AAA Club Alliance.
Following the session, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Mr. Gray's new book Planning Your Driving Retirement.
Registration is Required.
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Location: Kings Park Library Meeting Room
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Virginia Celebrates Recognition as #1 in Best Workplaces for Commuters, Launch 2027 Application Cycle
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Last week, Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC™), a national recognition program celebrating employers, universities, commercial sites and residential communities that are leading the future of commuter-friendly transportation, hosted transportation leaders from Fairfax County and across the Commonwealth to recognize local organizations and officially launch the 2027 BWC application cycle.
This year, Virginia was recognized as the top state for honoring Best Workplaces for Commuters – including nearly 150 employers here in Fairfax County, who create sustainable commuting options for their employees.
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation’s Commuter Services Team can assist your organization, your employer, or even your neighborhood with solutions to encourage smarter commutes.
Your employer can meet the BWC National Standard of Excellence and receive:
- Two-year free membership in BWC (a value of $400 per worksite).
- National and County recognition as a commuter-friendly and socially responsible workplace.
- County certification as a Green Business Partners Leader.
- Access to web conferences, training and networking opportunities to enhance commuter benefits.
- Web-based tools to calculate your organization’s overall financial, environmental, and traffic impact.
Read more and contact the Fairfax County Department of Transportation to get started today!
| Introducing "66 Express Advantage" | |
A smoother commute starts with knowing what to expect. With 66 Express Advantage, drivers using the I-66 express lanes outside the beltway receive helpful email alerts if a toll is missed or if their account balance needs attention, allowing you to address it early and avoid additional charges for unpaid tolls.
It's a simple way to stay connected to your activity on the 66 Express Outside the Beltway, avoid surprises, and receive important updates about your account. You'll also be among the first to hear about future promotions and program updates available to customers.
To sign up for the 66 Express Advantage, visit the official 66 Express Outside the Beltway website at ride66express.com and go to the "66 Express Advantage" section.
| Fairfax Connector Service Changes Take Effect June 27 | |
Fairfax Connector will implement several service changes beginning June 27, 2026, to better match demand.
While some routes will see reduced service or be discontinued, many riders will continue to have transit options available through other nearby Fairfax Connector stops and routes to provide Metrorail connections.
Routes Being Discontinued
Due to consistently low ridership, the following routes will be discontinued:
- Route 552 (Reston-Herndon)
- Alternatives include the following routes: 558, 559, 574, 924, 950, RIBS 1 and 3 and Metrorail’s Silver Line.
- Route 622 (Fairfax)
- Customers may use Route 605 as an alternative.
Service Improvements and Minor Schedule Adjustments
- The following routes will receive schedule changes to improve reliability or better meet customer demand:Routes 101 and 109 – Midday service adjustments
- Route 335 – Permanent detour implemented
- Routes 401, 402 and 553 – Schedule adjustments
- Routes 461, 463, 924 and 950 – Service adjustments
- Route 983 – Increased weekend frequency
Service Reductions
- The following routes will operate reduced service based on ridership patterns:Route 432 – Reduced service
- Route 615 –Sunday service discontinued
- Route 625 – Midday service only
- Route 642 – Service limited to peak periods and two midday trips; weekend service discontinued
Customers are encouraged to review updated schedules and route information before traveling on or after June 27, 2026.
For the latest service information, visit the Fairfax Connector website or contact Fairfax Connector Customer Service at (703) 339-7200 or fairfaxconnector@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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