Friday, September 18, 2026 | | |
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved funding Tuesday, September 15, to restore 11 crossing guard positions at 10 high schools as part of the FY 2026 Carryover Budget Package.
The board approved $707,908 in annual funding for 11 crossings serving 10 high schools: Annandale, Centreville, Chantilly, Edison, McLean, Oakton, South County, South Lakes, West Springfield and West Potomac. This funding was based on a Consideration Item introduced by Supervisors Herrity, Alcorn, and myslef. The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) will continue temporary coverage while working to rehire former crossing guards and recruit or contract for additional guards as needed.
Additionally, I supported the Board Matter to establish a joint School Board and Board of Supervisors task force "to review and strategize pedestrian, bicycle, scooter, and traffic safety in school zones." As per the Board Matter, the review should include recommendations provided by FCPD, the Office of School Security, and Safe Routes to School. Other key stakeholders include the Virginia Department of Transportation, Fairfax County Department of Transportation, members of the Fairfax County General Assembly Delegation, and others as deemed appropriate. The task force should work promptly to provide both the Board of Supervisors and the School Board with long-term solutions.
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Click the image to view my remarks from the Board meeting on the issue of high school crossing guards
The work that we will do as a result of this collaboration is going to make a difference. I have been a stalwart supporter of restoring high school crossing guards since the beginning of the FY 2027 budget process because I believe that the job of the Board of Supervisors and School Board is to protect the wellbeing and safety of our children. As your elected official, and Chair of the Safety and Security Committee, I will do everything in my power to keep all our residents safe.
Other Carryover Highlights
The FY 2026 Carryover Package also funds a range of one-time infrastructure, equipment, technology and other county needs, including:
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$28.6 million for the Capital Sinking Fund, including $12.87 million for county facilities, $7.15 million for Fairfax County Public Schools facilities, $4.29 million for parks and $2 million for walkways.
- $8.94 million for bicycle and pedestrian improvements, bringing the county's investment toward the Board's $100 million goal to $91.06 million.
- $5 million to address rising costs for existing Park Authority capital projects.
- $5 million for replacement of large Fire and Rescue Department apparatus and ambulances.
- $2.1 million for electric vehicle charging stations at county and Park Authority facilities.
- $1 million for Fairfax County Public Library materials.
- $750,000 for costs associated with the August 2026 primary election.
- $300,000 for cleanup at Royal Lake Park following damage from the June 22 storm.
The package also includes $11.59 million for major information technology projects, including upgrades to financial, payment and telecommunications systems; $6 million to address emergency system failures at aging county facilities; and $5.59 million for infrastructure replacement and upgrades at county facilities.
| | It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as your representative on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. | | |
Rodney L. Lusk
Franconia District Supervisor
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Connecting with residents where they live is one of the most rewarding parts of serving as your Supervisor. I welcome invitations to attend your homeowners, civic, or community association meetings to provide updates, answer questions, and hear your priorities.
If you would like me to join an upcoming meeting or neighborhood event, please contact my office at 703-971-6262 or Franconia@fairfaxcounty.gov.
If this email was forwarded to you, consider signing up for my email list to receive newsletters and other important announcements.
| | Endorsed by the Board: Design Plans for the Telegraph Road at Hayfield Road Safety and Accessibility Improvements Project | | |
Hayfield area road safety and pedestrian improvements
This project proposes modification of pavement markings along Telegraph Road from 200 feet east of Broadmoor Street to Hayfield Road. The markings will include buffered bicycle lanes and updated turn-lane striping, improving safety and traffic operations in the project area. Additionally, the crosswalk between Hayfield Secondary and Hayfield Elementary schools will be relocated with a raised refuge island 240 feet east from the existing crosswalk location. Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) will be installed at the relocated crosswalk. These improvements will enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety along this roadway.
Fiscal Impact: The total project cost is estimated to be $2,690,762.
Schedule: The anticipated construction completion is Spring 2029.
| | Fairfax Connector Seeks Public Input on Proposed Service Changes in the Franconia-Springfield Area | | |
Fairfax Connector is working to realign existing services with ridership demand and improve overall system efficiency in the Franconia-Springfield area. The changes include the addition of Route 400, a limited-stop connection between Tysons and Franconia-Springfield. Members of the public can review the proposed service changes and submit comments through Public Input until September 30, 2026.
Proposed Services Changes
- Elimination of four low-ridership routes
- Eight route realignments
Attend a Virtual Community Information Meeting:
| | Operation Safe Right Turn | | |
As part of the county's targeted focus on road and pedestrian safety, FCPD is launching “Operation Safe Right Turn," a focused enforcement following a concerning traffic safety trend involving drivers turning through crosswalks without fully checking for pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders.
Officers are seeing particular concern at intersections where drivers make right turns on a solid green light. While a green light allows a driver to proceed, they must still check the crosswalk and yield to pedestrians who have the right of way before completing their turn.
When preparing to turn, drivers should actively scan the crosswalk and surrounding area, including mirrors and blind spots, for pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders approaching from either direction. A green light does not relieve a driver of the responsibility to ensure the path of travel is clear before turning.
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Focused Enforcement
In response to this trend, officers from FCPD’s Traffic Division and patrol districts will be conducting focused enforcement aimed at drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Drivers should expect strict enforcement when officers observe violations, including citations when appropriate. The goal of this initiative is simple: to prevent crashes and protect some of the most vulnerable people using Fairfax County’s roadways.
Drivers can help by remembering:
- Look before you turn. Check the entire crosswalk, mirrors, and blind spots before moving.
- Yield to pedestrians. If someone is within the crosswalk, give them the time and space necessary to cross safely.
- Expect bicyclists and scooters. They can approach an intersection more quickly than a pedestrian and may be difficult to see without an intentional check.
- Give driving your full time and attention. A momentary lapse in attention at an intersection can have serious consequences.
Pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders should also remain alert, make themselves visible, and watch for turning vehicles even when they have the right of way.
Traffic safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you are behind the wheel, walking, biking, or riding a scooter, taking an extra moment to look for one another can prevent a serious crash and help everyone reach their destination safely.
| | My office has received an extreme volume of correspondences from Fairfax County residents concerned about the potential misuse of Flock Safety ("Flock") Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR). Report news reports indicate inappropriate use in other jurisdictions. | | |
View my remarks from the Board meeting on the topic of Flock Safety ALPR
In Fairfax County, ALPR technology has been used successfully to solve hundreds of cases. From November 2022 through September 4, 2026, the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPR) Flock ALPR program has resulted in helping to solve over 1600 cases including locating 57 missing persons, 66 firearms recovered, 2,633 arrest charges and 555 stolen vehicles recovered with an estimated value of $9.2 million. In the Franconia Police District, ALPR cameras hit on a vehicle with a license plate that had been reported stolen. The car was stopped and found to have narcotics, more stolen license plates, and other items of stolen property.
| | The Board of Supervisors approved a Board Matter that directs FCPD to pause the installation of any new stationary Flock ALPRs until the Board can discuss the topic at the Safety and Security Committee meeting on October 20, 2026. | | September is Suicide Prevention Month | | September is Suicide Prevention month, but it is always time to raise awareness, strengthen the dialogue and remind individuals, friends and families about resources that are available. | | |
The ConnerStrong Foundation is making a significant impact in teen suicide education in the Franconia District. Established in 2017, the ConnerStrong Foundation honors Conner Worosz, a Hayfield Secondary School student who tragically died by suicide at the age of 17.
Funds raised by the ConnerStrong Foundation benefit their Sources of Strength program, a youth mental health and suicide prevention initiative in 13 Virginia high schools and middle schools to date.
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If you or someone you care about may be at risk of suicide, don't hesitate to reach out for help right away. These resources are available 24/7:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 9-8-8, chat at https://chat.988lifeline.org/.
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Call the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.
- In an immediate, life-threatening situation, call 911.
You can also come directly to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board Emergency Services, which is open 24/7.
- Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health
- 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax
- 703-573-5679, TTY 711
SPAN Virtual Webinar
| | SPAN (Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia) is hosting a webinar with George Mason University's Center for Community Mental Health on September 23, 2026, from 6-7 pm. This webinar will cover practical skills for safety and support, learn how to recognize warning signs, and how to respond when you or someone you care about is struggling. | | September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month | | |
View my remarks from the September 14 Board of Supervisors Meeting
September 2026 was designated as "Sickle Cell Awareness Month" in Fairfax County at the September 14 Board meeting.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Healthy red blood cells are round, and they move through small blood vessels to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. In someone who has SCD, the hemoglobin is abnormal, which causes the red blood cells to become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped sickle.
Complications of SCD include, but are not limited to, anemia, blood clots, infection, and vision loss.
The Heart of Gold Sickle Cell Foundation supports individuals and families in Northern Virginia via resources and advocacy. Community events, like the annual Sickle Cell Town Hall, support, educate, and advocate for those living with SCD and their loved ones.
| | Courtesy of Heart of Gold Sickle Cell Foundation (click to enlarge) | | Kingstowne Community Meeting - September 17 | | I appreciated the opportunity to speak at the Kingstowne Community Meeting regarding CM Beulah LLC, a proposed independent living community at 7301 Beulah St. | | Stuff the Bus is September 19 | | |
Stuff the Bus returns for a one-day food drive on Saturday, September 19, at Supervisor district offices countywide. Please consider supporting Koinonia by donating non-perishable goods and gift cards at the Franconia District Governmental Center (7130 Silver Lake Blvd). Thank you in advance for your generosity.
My staff and I are here to assist you with food resources or anything else you may need. Please do not hesitate to call us at 703-971-6262, email us at franconia@fairfaxcounty.gov, or visit us at 7130 Silver Lake Blvd.
| | Family Skate & Dance: Hispanic Heritage Night | | |
Roll into the weekend at the Franconia Rec Center for Hispanic Heritage Family Skate & Dance Night. Don’t forget to bring your own skates!
Saturday, September 19 (6-9 p.m.)
Franconia Rec Center (6601 Telegraph Rd)
Parking: Lower parking lot and enter through the gym door
Admission: $10 per person (advance or at the door)
National Public Lands Day is September 26
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This National Public Lands Day, come make a real impact at Huntley Meadows! Volunteers are needed to remove invasive plants to protect native habitats and support wildlife. Enjoy the outdoors and connect with fellow nature lovers.
Saturday, September 26, 9-11 a.m.
Huntley Meadows Park, 6901 S. Kings Hwy.
Sign up to volunteer
Bug Fest at Lake Accotink Park
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The popular BUG FEST is coming up soon! Join an insect safari, explore live insects, roll logs to find bugs, play in soil stations and even make your own bug!
Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Lake Accotink Park, McLaren Sargent Pavilion
Parking is located at 5660 Heming Ave.
Admission is $10 per person online and $12 at the door. Buy tickets.
| | Save the Date: Franconia-Springfield Planning Study Community Meeting | | |
Study area
Join Fairfax County planners and project consultants for a virtual webinar on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to explore the new Preliminary Plan for the Franconia-Springfield area!
Shaped directly by community input across multiple rounds of engagement, this Preliminary Plan refines three previous draft concepts into an updated planning vision for the area's future. Community members are encouraged to tune in to learn about the plan, ask questions, and hear details on the study's next steps.
Community Meeting Details:
For more information on the study, visit the project webpage.
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Community members are invited to share their feedback on the first part of proposed changes to modernize zoning regulations for the county’s commercial and industrial districts. Specifically, Fairfax County is exploring potential changes to the following five uses -- associated service uses, food trucks, recycling centers, specialized instruction centers, and vehicle sales. Virtual meetings will be held on October 5 and 7 to discuss the proposed changes.
Save the date to join one of the following community meetings:
- Monday, October 5, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
Note: Both meetings will cover the same content. No registration is required. Additional project information and meeting details are available on the project webpage.
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Approved by the Board of Supervisors: BP Kingstowne Office Building T LLC
5971 Kingstowne Village Pkwy
RZPA-2025-FR-00035
| | Zoning Applications in Progress | | Manufactured Housing Roundtable Update | | |
The Manufactured Housing Roundtable convened on September 14. The Department of Cable and Consumer Services gave a presentation on the Communications Policy and Regulation Division (CPRD), which helps residents with cable operator issues.
The CPRD inspects cable construction site locations to ensure that cable construction and safety codes are met. At the Harmony Place manufactured housing community, CPRD inspectors conducted site inspections and met with Cox, Verizon, and Dominion Energy to resolve as many safety issues as possible.
The CPRD can be reached at 703-324-5902 or by email at cprd@fairfaxcounty.gov.
| | For Students and Families | | Family Fun Day at Harmony Place | | |
Franconia District Back-to-School Night Events
- Forestdale ES: September 23, 6:00PM – 8:00PM
- Hybla Valley ES: September 24, 6:00PM – 7:30 PM
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Click to enlarge
The Franconia District community is invited to learn more about Fairfax County Government and issues important to the area at the Franconia District Neighborhood College program that begins Oct. 1, 2026.
The free, six-session certificate program will feature guest speakers, interactive activities, breakout room discussions, networking opportunities, and information about advisory boards and other volunteer opportunities. Learn more and register by September 30.
| | What's Happening at the WISH? | | |
Click to enlarge
TalentCapital.ai
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The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments is proud to house Talent Capital AI, a regional initiative connecting job seekers across DC, Maryland, and Virginia with opportunities matched to their skills and goals. At the heart of the effort is TalentCapital.ai — a free platform powered by agentic AI that surfaces job openings, training programs, career coaching, networking events, and entrepreneurship resources, all in one place.
The platform features Celeste, an AI concierge, supported by specialized agents for jobs, events, training, entrepreneurship, and coaching. It is designed to support anyone in career transition — with a particular focus on displaced federal workers — and is available at no cost to all Greater Washington residents.
| | Money Smarts for Older Adults | |
Money Smarts for Older Adults: Confident Financial Decisions at Any Age
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Gerry Hyland Government Center, 2nd floor
8350 Richmond Highway
Protect your money by learning how to recognize, prevent, and respond to financial scams and fraud. Get important tips and participate in scenario-based activities so you can stop scammers in their tracks and feel empowered to respond if fraud happens. Registration and refreshments from 9:30-10 a.m. Workshop begins promptly at 10 a.m. Register.
| | 2026 Virginia Energy Plan | | |
The 2026 Virginia Energy Plan establishes the energy priorities and sets the course for the next decade for how the Commonwealth will affordably meet demand while maintaining reliability and working towards a net-zero carbon energy economy for all sectors by no later than 2045.
The Energy Plan will describe current and emerging energy trends, identify challenges and opportunities across the energy system, and identify strategies over a ten-year period consistent with the 2045 net-zero carbon energy economy for all sectors.
The 2026 Virginia Energy Plan will be released in October. Sign up for updates.
| | Personal Property Tax Deadline Oct. 5 | | |
Residents can continue to access copies of vehicle and business personal property bills for the current and three prior years. Real estate bills back to 2021 are also available online on the My Fairfax Portal.
Taxpayers may still visit the online payment portal or call or e-mail the Department of Tax Administration (DTA) to request a copy of their bills if they do not have them by the second week of September. DTA strongly encourages early payments online to avoid missed deadlines – they can even be scheduled to take effect on the October 5 due date.
Taxpayers who have questions about their bills or have sold their vehicles are urged to contact DTA as soon as possible. Virginia law requires that vehicles are valued using a recognized pricing guide, applied uniformly and as of January 1.
A few items of note:
This year, DTA and the Department of Information Technology (DIT) are especially proud to announce the addition of four tax payment kiosks located throughout the County. Payments for personal property taxes can be made using cash, check, or credit/debit card. Residents can also look up account balances and receive a receipt for their transactions.
Gerry Hyland Government Center
8350 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22309
Monday through Saturday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
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September 19: Fairfax County Police Department Hiring Expo (Register)
October 2: Economic Initiatives Business Pulse Survey Deadline (Take the survey)
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Police Non-Emergency Line: 703-691-2131
Dept of Code Compliance: 703-324-1300
Dept of Tax Administration: 703-222-8234
Report Road Hazards to VDOT: 800-367-7623 (FOR-ROAD)
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