Banner for the Braddock Beacon featuring Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer

05.04.2026

Dear Neighbor,

On Tuesday, April 28, the Board completed its Mark-up of the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, with the final vote for adoption, scheduled for Tuesday, May 5. The Mark-Up is the meeting where the Board formally makes changes to the County Executive’s Advertised Budget, incorporating community input from public hearings, updated revenue projections, and Board priorities. During this session, the Chair presents a Mark-Up package, Board members debate and vote on amendments, and adjustments are made to areas such as tax rates, employee compensation, and community services.

This was my first County Budget as a Member of the Board, and I appreciate having heard from so many of you about your priorities and concerns. Thank you to the many advocates and organizations in the community who reached out to share their thoughts with me – we are stronger because of our engaged and passionate community, and I truly believe that their input has led to a better outcome.

The Budget Mark-Up makes some key changes from what was initially advertised. It increases our support for affordable housing by committing an additional $8.78 million, bringing the total affordable housing funding to the equivalent of 1 ½ cents on the tax rate.

The package restores full or partial funding to several of the programs that were previously slated for elimination, such as the BeWell Program, the low- and moderate-income home repair program, a preschool program, and home-delivered meals. In these tough times we cannot forget those who are most in need, and I remain committed to lifting up those voices and doing our best to meet those needs.

The Mark-Up includes a one-year delay in the transfer of transition services for individuals with developmental disabilities who are leaving the school system, to ensure transition services remain seamless between FCPS and CSB.

We also heard from a lot of residents about affordability, especially considering the uncertainty and upheaval in the federal government workforce, overseas impacts on fuel costs, and domestic decisions like tariffs, all of which are increasing costs on the average citizen, with little relief from Washington. So it’s important that we do what we can to mitigate some of these costs, which this budget Mark-Up does with the reduction in the real estate tax rate from $1.1225 to $1.12 per $1000 of value, made possible by our tax diversification. Finally, I am glad that we are setting aside funds into the Reserve for Economic Uncertainty, acknowledging that there is much more federal uncertainty on the horizon.

We have been experiencing a tough and uncertain economic environment and multiple years of difficult budgets. We also face aging facilities – many of which were built around the same time, an aging IT infrastructure with rapid IT changes, higher needs in our community with the affordability crisis, especially with the economic uncertainty and unemployment led by the federal government, and the growing needs of our school population.

I’m grateful that this budget Mark-Up demonstrates strong support for affordable housing, an incredible need in our County. If people cannot live here, businesses will not come here, and that is not a recipe for long-term sustainability for our County. In a recent report, we received some alarming statistics – such as the fact that housing costs are significantly outpacing incomes, making homeownership out of reach for households earning less than $230,000, rents also increasing more than income, and a 2:1 jobs-to-homes ratio through 2025. These figures compel us to act, and I’m glad that with the additions in this Budget, we’re taking bold steps to meet what this moment demands of us. As the new Housing Committee Chair, I am committed to working with my colleagues and staff to kick-start some development.

Here in Fairfax we can lead the way to find solutions so people can age in place, our young people can start careers here, and our families can raise their children and work here, while taking advantage of our excellent public schools. Indeed, our excellent schools are an economic driver for our County.

I am hoping that the Governor and General Assembly will fill the gap in funding for schools soon, so that school systems can plan for the near term. They have worked hard to retain teachers while improving student outcomes, with a 97% teacher retention rate, meaning higher skilled teachers are doing the work of educating our future. This is just one reason we need our Commonwealth to stand up to do their share – not just because support for education is an economic and moral imperative, but because our strong school system is the third-largest employer in Virginia and also an economic driver for our state. The County has worked to fund schools and we need the state to step up more.

I am glad we are putting efforts towards economic competitiveness, especially given the changes in the federal government. We need to focus more on growing our own strong economy here in Fairfax so we can continue to fund quality services, parks, libraries, and schools, and reduce the burden on taxpayers.

I look forward to the final vote tomorrow. I thank all the staff, community, and my colleagues on the Board for all the hard work and advocacy as we make this difficult decision.

In Service,

Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer

Programming note: our office will briefly close from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6 for the opening of the Wakefield Farmers Market.

In this issue:

Graduation Season at George Mason University
Upcoming Events and Opportunities
Rachna in the Community
Opportunities to Serve on Boards, Authorities and Commissions
Braddock Bravo
Community Happenings
Economic Development
Environment & Parks
Human Services
Land Use & Development
Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers
Transportation Updates

Graduation Season at

George Mason University

Graduation Season is upon us!

EagleBank Arena hosts commencement for George Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College's Commencement, and high school graduation celebrations. Please view the schedule and keep in mind that heavy traffic is expected on and around the Fairfax Campus beginning May 14 through June 17. Multiple ceremonies will occur each day at the Fairfax Campus. Be sure to check the schedule and local traffic before driving on and around campus.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

May 5: Fairfax County Career Fair, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Government Center ~ Visit the Eventbrite page for more details and April 29 information session in preparation for the Career Fair

May 3 through 9 - Small Business Week (see schedule of events)

May 7, 8 & 9 (times vary): Kings Park Library Spring Book Sale

May 30: Braddock Bark at Lake Accotink Park, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Free Document Shredding Event:

May 30, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Nativity Catholic Church, 6400 Nativity Lane, Burke (hosted by Marian Homes)

Rachna in the Community

Kings Park Library Volunteer Appreciation

On April 30 I visited with our Kings Park Library volunteers to thank them what they do to keep our library and its programs going strong.

Volunteers give of their time, their expertise, and their genuine care for the people around them. Kings Park Library is among the busiest branches in the entire County for returns and holds processing. None of that would be possible without our volunteers showing up, day after day, to keep things moving.

With the Book Sale coming up this week, and all the effort required to put on such an event, it's an especially important time to recognize and thank our Library volunteers!

GMU Student Government

Meeting with members of the Mason Student Government

Also on April 30, I had the pleasure of speaking with the incredible students of the Mason Student Government. We had thoughtful conversations about the issues that matter most to them, from affordability to public transportation, as well as the important role local government plays in our everyday lives and the power of civic engagement.

I was truly inspired by the insightful questions these students asked!

Neighborhood College Graduation

Supervisor Sizemore Heizer poses with graduates of the Neighborhood College program, April 30, 2026

It was great to hear the presentations from our Neighborhood College participants who have spent the last seven weeks in sessions to learn about County government and how they can get involved in making our community a a better place. Congratulations to our graduates!

Playbill from Lake Braddock's production of Cabaret

Lake Braddock Secondary School Theater

It's rare to see a high school play production that mirrors professional level - unless you happen to catch one of Fairfax County Public School's excellent productions! Lake Braddock's production of Cabaret is stunning - visually, with its dance numbers, the singing, the authenticity and conviction of each and every person to their character, the live pit orchestra, the lights and costumes and the abrupt movement from a carefree world to a place that is dark and dangerous ... May 1 was an evening well spent.

School Readiness Symposium and Early Childhood Educators Week

Supervisor Sizemore Heizer at the School Readiness Symposium May 2, 2026

On Saturday morning, I attended the School Readiness Symposium, hosted by Fairfax Futures and the County's Neighborhood and Community Services. At the event I was honored to present the group with a proclamation recognizing May 4 through 8 as Early Childhood Educators Week.

Community Meeting on Construction of New Audrey Moore Rec Center

Supervisor Sizemore Heizer kicks off the community meeting about the Audrey Moore RECenter

And in the afternoon, I joined the Park Authority for a public meeting to discuss the Audrey Moore Rec Center Renovation Designs. Thank you to all the amazing members of the Braddock District who came to learn about the project!

Braddock Bravo

MSW program skills helped this student turn her internship into a full-time role

George Mason University Master of Social Work student, Heather Apostol, has turned her passion into purpose, successfully transitioning from an internship at True Ground Housing Partners into a full-time role. During her internship, she made a meaningful impact by supporting residents in affordable housing through hands-on work in case management, housing stability, and engaging community programs.

Her dedication and compassion quickly stood out, leading to her promotion to Resident Services Coordinator soon after completing her placement. In her current role, Heather continues to make a difference by managing rental assistance programs, partnering with local agencies, and connecting residents to valuable community resources.

Heather credits the GMU Master of Social Work program for equipping her with the tools to succeed, from evidence-based practice to reflective thinking and collaboration. With a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, policy, and ethical decision-making, she feels confident bringing her knowledge to life, helping individuals and communities thrive every day.

Community Happenings

Chairman McKay's Spring Social 2026

Chairman Jeff McKay invites you to celebrate spring at the Fairfax County Government Center! Join Chairman McKay on Tuesday, May 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and enjoy an evening filled with light refreshments, exciting raffles, and the opportunity to connect with neighbors and friends. Register here.

Join the Paw-tay at Braddock Bark!

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time! Braddock District Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer, in partnership with the Fairfax County Animal Shelter and Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, invites you and your furry friends to Braddock Bark 2026.

Event Details

When: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: McLaren Sargent Pavilion at Lake Accotink Park

(5660 Heming Avenue, Springfield, VA)

Note: ALL DOGS MUST BE ON A LEASH TO JOIN THE FUN!

For more information, please contact braddockevents@fairfaxcounty.gov. We can’t wait to see you and your four-legged friends there!

Meet Meatloaf - the curious cutie with a whole lot of heart!

If you're looking for a dog who's equal parts sweet, social, and delightfully quirky, Meatloaf might just be your new best buddy. From the moment he arrived, this handsome guy has charmed everyone with his gentle manners and eager-to-please attitude. Meatloaf is the kind of dog who trots right up to the kennel door, ready for adventure. He walks nicely on leash (with just a sprinkle of enthusiasm) and responds well to simple verbal reminders. During his assessment, he soaked up every bit of affection-leaning in for pets, relaxing into full-body handling, and showing how much he enjoys being close to his people.

Toys? Meatloaf thinks they're neat... for a minute. After that, he'd rather hang out with you. He's a connection-over-stuff kind of guy. He also has great manners around food-no guarding or fuss-though he does take enthusiastic bites, so giving him a little space at mealtime is a good idea.

When meeting another dog, Meatloaf showed curiosity, friendliness, and a loose, wiggly body. He offered polite sniffing, kept the vibes positive, and seemed genuinely interested in making a friend. As always, a slow dog-to-dog introduction will help set him up for success.

Meatloaf would thrive in a home that offers structure, love, and continued guidance. He's smart, people-oriented, and eager to learn, so partnering with a trainer will help him shine even brighter.

If you're searching for a lovable companion with a tender heart, a curious spirit, and a whole lot of potential, Meatloaf is ready to meet you. Come say hi-you might just fall in love!

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 Michael R. Frey 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 here.

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 activities in the libraries throughout Fairfax County may be found on the following link Library Events | Library.

Library events are always free to the public; some require registration in advance.
To request ADA accommodations or alternative format of materials, please call 703-324-8380 or TTY 711.
More Event Guidelines

Burke Centre Library Events

Stitch Sesh

Need help with a project? Want some company while you work? Bring it to the library and hang out with your fellow crafty enthusiasts! All manner of fiber arts and skill levels are welcome.

Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Kings Park Library Events

Spring Book Sale

Fiction and Nonfiction books and media for all ages! Popular authors, literary fiction, romance, science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and more! Sorted into categories and alphabetized by author to make it easy to find what you want! Cash Only.

Dates & Times:

Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, May 8, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 9, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Tell Your Story - Creating an Oral History

Creating an oral history is a meaningful way to share memories and experiences with your family. To hear and see people talk about their lives leaves a powerful legacy. In this program, Jen Garrott, an Emmy® award-winning producer with over a decade of media expertise and a background in history, will discuss the importance of leaving an oral history, and how to start an interview with a loved one or create your own recording.

Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Location: Kings Park Meeting Room, Kings Park Library

Registration requested to receive an event reminder. Walk-ins welcome.

Mental Health Awareness Community Art Project

Join the Kings Park Library in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month in May by participating in their community art project. They invite all to create a small piece of art that represents something that feels heavy or burdensome to carry and something that lightens that heaviness.

How to Participate:

Pick up a blank postcard at Kings Park Library. Create a piece of art that represents something that feels heavy to carry and/or something that lightens that heaviness. Return the postcard to one of the drop-off boxes at Kings Park Library by May 11. Visit between May 13 - May 30 to see your art on display!

For questions please call: 703-978-5600.

First Annual Building Safety Month Resource Fair

Spring is the time of year when Fairfax County highlights building safety. Stop by the First Annual Building Safety Month Resource Fair, hosted by Land Development Services, which will include classes for homeowners, informational tables from partner agencies, a touch-a-truck exploration and a construction-themed story time. Learn more here.

Wednesday, May 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Herrity Building at 12055 Government Center Pkwy

Contact Danielle Badra with questions.

Virtual "Talk. They Hear You." Underage Drinking & Substance Use Presentation

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board Wellness, Health Promotion & Prevention team is providing a free online presentation for parents and anyone else with youth in their lives. "Talk. They Hear You." is a national substance use prevention campaign that encourages talking with children early about alcohol and other drugs. This presentation will provide information and resources to assist in having these important conversations early and often.

Small, ongoing conversations can do a lot to prevent underage drinking and other drug use. Starting these conversations early, by age 9, are important, as research shows that children begin to look at alcohol more positively between ages 9 and 13. According to Fairfax County Youth Survey data, about 12.7 percent of eighth grade students say they have tried alcohol; by grade 12, that number jumps to 37.4 percent.

This presentation is for parents and caregivers of children, teens and young adults, to provide practical tips on how start and continue having conversations about underage drinking and substance use.

Learn:

What you can do to prevent your child from drinking and using other drugs.
Consequences of underage drinking.
Why small conversations make a big impression.
Why you should talk with your child about alcohol.
Local resources and information to support these conservations.

Join us for a one-hour presentation to learn the ﬁve conversation goals to talk with kids about alcohol and other drugs.

When: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

If you have questions, please contact the Wellness, Health Promotion and Prevention team at CSBPrevention@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. For information, call 703-324-7000, TTY 711.

INOVA Blood Drive at Burke Community Church

Spring into action and donate blood at the Burke Community Church at 9900 Old Keene Mill Road on Friday, May 8 from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Make an appointment or just walk-in. One donation can help save 3 lives!

Donate and receive their spring hooded tee.*

*While supplies last. Sizes and may vary. Must complete screening process to receive giveaway

Deadline to Apply for Boards, Authorities and Commissions

Supervisor Sizemore Heizer is accepting applications from Braddock District community members to serve on a number of Boards, Authorities and Commissions (BACs) until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8. (Future application opportunities will be announced as vacancies arise.) If you are interested in being considered for an appointment to one of these organizations, please fill out this application form and then send your resume to braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Current openings include:

Advisory Social Services Board – Braddock District Representative
Fairfax Area Disability Services Board – Braddock District Representative
Human Rights Commission – At-Large #10 Representative
Park Authority Board – Braddock District Representative
Trails, Sidewalks and Bikeways Committee – Braddock District Representative
Commission for Women - Braddock District Representative

Economic Development

Small Business and Economic Development Week, May 3-9

The Fairfax County Department of Economic Initiatives has put together a comprehensive lineup of events designed to help our local entrepreneurs level up! We honor Fairfax County's 30,000 small businesses with a week of advocacy and education to highlight their vital role in job creation and community character. Through partnerships with the FCEDA and the Fairfax CORE platform, the County provides local entrepreneurs with essential resources, workshops, and networking opportunities to help their businesses thrive and grow. To learn more about how small businesses power our community and to find resources for your own entrepreneurial journey, check out the latest updates on the CORE blog.

What events are happening during Small Business Week? A variety of workshops, expos, and networking opportunities are scheduled throughout the week, including:

Monday May 4th 6:00 – 7:00p

Made in Fairfax – Fairfax CORE Webinar

All Made in Fairfax Businesses are invited to join a practical webinar to learn how the Fairfax CORE platform can help you grow your creative business. This session will show local makers and artisans how to easily find business guidance, understand local zoning rules, and connect with helpful workshops and support partners. Join with this link.

Tuesday May 5th 8:30a – 3:30p

Entrepreneurship 101 and Small Business Resource Expo

"The Small Business Resource Expo” joins our Entrepreneurship 101 Workshop during National Small Business Week. This full-day, collaborative experience brings together entrepreneurs, business experts, lenders and includes a small business expo with more than 20 resource partners, for a powerful day of learning, connection, and opportunity. Learn more

Wednesday May 6th 6:00 – 7:00p

Virtual Entrepreneur Help Desk “Unlocking the Power of Fairfax CORE”

Join Fairfax County’s Director of Small & Local Business for a virtual session on how to master the Fairfax CORE platform. This webinar offers practical tips for entrepreneurs to easily find business guidance, connect with regional partners, and access the tools needed to help their businesses grow.

Join with this link

Friday, May 8th 9:00a - 1:00p

Entrepreneur Help Desk @ Mount Vernon District Office

This is an opportunity for one-on-one support tailored to your needs. We can connect you with essential resources, such as startup guides, workshops, and local government programs designed to help your business grow. Spaces are limited| Register

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, May 5 and Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

This year’s event is open to established and aspiring business owners and will include educational presentations by industry experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, and business advice from America's SBDCs. The event is free, but registration is required.

For a full listing of events and opportunities, visit the Fairfax CORE website.

Environment & Parks

Lifetime Learning Institute May Forum: Nature-Based Solutions Drive Climate Justice

May 6, 2026

9:30 am to 11:00 am

Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA

Speaker, Hank Cauley, of Nature for Justice, recognizes the inseparability of land, water, plants, animals, culture, and Indigenous rights. The forum will focus on empowering communities to use nature-based solutions to drive climate justice, restore ecosystems, and secure long-term resilience. Nature for Justice is helping to provide technical skills, technologies and resources to build a network of partners including indigenous groups, coops, women’s initiatives, religious assemblies and other small stakeholders.

Registration is not required. If you have questions, contact Forum Chair Mary Alexander.

Practice Environmentally-Friendly Gardening and Lawncare

Spring has arrived and Fairfax County encourages residents to get lawns and gardens ready with a range of local resources and eco-friendly practices.

Whether you’re an avid gardener or just need to maintain your lawn, you can tap into expert advice from Fairfax County Master Gardeners via phone, email, and plant clinics (see the link below). If you’re looking for a tree or bush to fill a vacant spot of land, you’re strongly encouraged to plant native species that support wildlife, improve soil quality, and protect local habitats.

Other eco-friendly steps you’ll want to consider include:

Avoiding unnecessary spring fertilizing of your lawn
Getting your soil tested
Shopping locally for plants or attend plant swaps for seeds and plants
Getting free mulch at Fairfax County’s local transfer stations, and
Removing invasive plants.

Visit this webpage to learn more about all of the above environmentally-friendly resources available to you!

Fairfax County Connects Residents to Energy- Efficient Equipment

The Switch Together Heat Pumps program, run by national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors and promoted by Fairfax County and other local jurisdictions, helps residents find discounted, high-efficiency heat pumps, as well as solar panels and battery storage.

By organizing qualified contractors to competitively bid, the program secures an average heat pump installation discount of about 15% below standard market prices, with additional savings possible through incentives.

Residents can visit SwitchTogether.com/HeatPumps/FairfaxCounty to register for free, receive a no-obligation personal offer, and decide if switching makes sense for their home before the May 27, 2026 deadline.

Human Services

Burke Gives Back Community Service Event

Join the Braddock community for Burke Gives Back on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Terra Centre Elementary School. This special event, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Burke United Methodist Church and the 250th anniversary of the nation, offers hands-on service projects for all ages, including meal packing with Rise Against Hunger and food drives. For more details and to register for a volunteer shift, visit the Burke UMC website.

Land Use & Development

Rebuilding Together

Over the past 36 years, Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church has provided free home repairs to more than 2,920 homeowners and nonprofits. With increased capacity, they’re now able to help more homeowners and make deeper repairs. Applications are Now Open for Fairfax County residents to apply for home repairs and accessibility modifications.

To qualify, residents must:

• Own and live in their home

• Have a total gross household income that does not exceed $74,800 for one person or $85,450 for two people, with a sliding scale for larger households.

Services Include:

• Fall Safety and Aging in Place: Installing grab bars, double handrails, comfort-height toilets, toilet safety rails, and brighter LED lighting.

• Assistance for Those with Disabilities and Limited Mobility: Installing exterior handrails, building wheelchair ramps, and installing electric stair lifts.

• General Home Repairs: Securing doors and windows; repairing hazardous dryer ducts; installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms; sealing air leaks; installing AC window and portable units; replacing non-functioning appliances and leaking water heaters; making plumbing, electrical, and HVAC repairs; and fixing fences and gates.

Rebuilding Together's Team: While they rely primarily on skilled volunteers, they engage corporate and faith-based teams for larger projects and hire professional contractors for complex repairs.

Not every home is a good fit, and they can’t fix every problem in every home, but they aim to help as many homeowners as possible.

Funding: Rebuilding Together-AFF receives funding for this home repair program from Fairfax County and private donations.

Contact them Today:

📞📞Phone: 703-528-1999

📧📧Email: info@rebuildingtogether-aff.org

🌐🌐Website: https://rebuildingtogether-aff.org

Rebuilding Together-AFF will make all reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities upon request.

Community Meeting on Church of the Good Shepherd Property

Church of the Good Shepherd aerial view of development area

Join neighbors on Monday, May 4th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. for the second virtual meeting to learn more about a potential Comprehensive Plan Amendment at the Church of the Good Shepherd. The meeting will provide information about the planning process, the proposal and an opportunity to share your thoughts and feedback.

Teams Meeting Link:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/27071037819432?p=oZmIu4MKxdVCet5TIe

By Phone: (571) 429-5982,,837876982#

A potential Comprehensive Plan Amendment will consider recommending single-family residential development on a portion of the Church's property along Olley Lane. The 3.12-acre parcel is currently planned at 1-2 dwellings per acre. The Plan Amendment would consider an increase to 2-3 dwellings per acre. No changes are proposed to the Church building.

Visit the Department of Planning & Development website for more information.

Public Safety

License Plate Reader Technology

License Plate Reader Technology continues to deliver real, measurable results; helping recover hundreds of stolen vehicles and strengthening our real-time response capabilities. Major Hudson Bull sat down with Liberty Simmons from DC News Now to break down how LPR technology supported our Real Time Crime Center in recovering 500 stolen vehicles, highlighting the power of real-time data in keeping our community safe.

Annual Road Shark Initiative Kicks Off

Police Department motorcycle units and others line up for a photo to promote the Road Shark initiative

The first wave of the Road Shark campaign has concluded with an impressive 13,520 citations and warnings issued across Fairfax County.

Between April 20 and 26, the Fairfax County Police Department worked in conjunction with the Virginia State Police (VSP) to enforce traffic laws throughout the county. In the first week, officers and troopers issued 781 citations for speeding, 294 citations for reckless driving, and 244 hands-free citations. Additionally, the first wave resulted in 47 arrests for intoxicated driving and the recovery of three stolen vehicles.