Tomorrow, August 30, is the Springfield Bridgewalk, an annual event that commemorates and reaffirms the covenant between the Fort Belvoir Garrison and Franconia-Springfield community. Meet at the intersection of Bland St and Amherst Ave (near the FedEx store) between 9:30 and 9:45 a.m. to walk over Veterans Bridge. The walk across the bridge will begin promptly at 10 a.m. The Community Covenant signing ceremony will commence immediately following the Bridgewalk at the American Legion Post 176. A community celebration will follow until 2 p.m. I hope to see you there. | | |
Signing the Community Covenant at the 2024 Springfield Bridgewalk
At the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, August 26, Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay submitted a Board Matter titled, "Fairfax County's Economic Competitiveness." Fairfax County is currently facing significant challenges due to job loss and funding cuts at the federal level, in addition to continuously rising cost of housing. The County contributes over $167 billion annually to the Commonwealth's Gross Domestic Product, yet we are not getting the support or investment from the state like we had in years past. I had the honor of working at the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) for 21 years before being elected to the Board of Supervisors, helping to expand the commercial tax base in the County. What I've seen over the last six years is less support from the Commonwealth -- less investment to help close deals.
FCEDA has shown a commitment to create jobs in Fairfax County, even without having all of the tools. We must work to upskill and train people who may have lost their jobs into one of the 45,000 existing vacant positions. By supporting the retention of talent in the County, we are better set up for future economic success. Chairman McKay's Board Matter directs the County Executive to study potential options to enhance Fairfax County’s competitive edge in attracting, retaining, and expanding businesses to Fairfax County, and to work with stakeholders to report findings and make recommendations to the Board in six months or sooner.
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The Board approved the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) to accept $1,600,000 in Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for the implementation of the Complete Streets Design Guide and Slow Streets Pilot Program. A local cash match totaling $400,000 will be met with funds for active transportation projects, for a total of $2,000,000 in funding.
Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) helps communities around the country work toward reducing or eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries through the development of a Safety Action Plan (SAP) and implementation of infrastructure, behavioral or observational activities.
One such demonstration project is planned for Dinwiddie Street and Cumberland Avenue in the Franconia District. The purpose of this project is to explore whether implementing "slow street" measures can enhance safety and comfort for pedestrians and bicyclists. These measures are designed to be low-cost, minimally disruptive, and quick to implement. Rather than restricting vehicle access, the goal is to discourage cut-through traffic and speeding. This might involve signage indicating that the road is for "local traffic only" or specifying speed limits of "15 mph or less." Slow street projects are viewed as temporary solutions to improve active transportation access and comfort, particularly in areas where space for new infrastructure is limited and permanent upgrades, such as sidewalks or cycle tracks, are too expensive.
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The project is expected to begin this fall with an assessment of current conditions, including counts of vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles. The project team will evaluate data on speeds, traffic volumes, and behaviors (e.g., yielding rates and near-miss incidents), as well as the comfort levels of pedestrians and the traffic stress experienced by bicyclists.
An initial public meeting is scheduled for the winter to provide an overview of the project, outline its benefits and timeline, and share findings from the existing conditions analysis. A second meeting will then be held to gather input on possible materials and treatments for the demonstration, such as street paint, barriers, and flexible posts.
The goal is to install the slow street demonstration by the end of summer 2026 and remove it by that winter. Throughout and after the demonstration period, the project team will collect data to evaluate whether the implemented measures have had an impact on factors such as vehicle speeds and traffic volumes compared to pre-installation conditions.
Last, the Board voted to delay consideration of the proposal to establish a Unified Sanitation District (USD). As a result of the vote, County staff will meet with stakeholders and create specific proposals for Board consideration before a public hearing is scheduled.
| | It is both an honor and a privilege for me 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
| | One of the best parts of my job as Supervisor is getting to know you in your communities. I would like to attend your next homeowner, civic, or citizen association meeting to share information and hear what's important to you. If there is a community association meeting or event you would like me to attend, please contact my office at 703-971-6262. | | If this email was forwarded to you, consider signing up for my email list to receive newsletters and other important announcements. | | 2025 Springfield Bridge Walk | | The annual Springfield Bridge Walk is tomorrow, August 30. Click on the flyer to learn more. | | Federal Workforce Resource Hub | | |
Fairfax County is home to around 80,000 federal employees and thousands of federal contractors. The Federal Workforce Resource Hub serves as a resource to help navigate current and future issues for residents, government employees, active military/veterans, contractors, nonprofits and businesses who may be affected by actions, changes or disruptions to federal services or employment.
Northern Virginia is stepping up for recently unemployed federal employees and contractors with major new resources.
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Ready to start your own business?
In partnership with George Mason University, the Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (WISH Center) is hosting a free bootcamp and mentorship program for new and aspiring entrepreneurs.
A key component of the SOAR Initiative, the WISE program (Workforce Innovation Success through Entrepreneurship) is spearheaded by the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) within the Costello College of Business at George Mason University. This initiative is made possible through a strategic partnership with Melwood, the WISH Center, and Fairfax County.
Register for an information session today! All sessions contain the same content.
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Fairfax County Department of Human Resources
Information Sessions
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Reston Employment Resource Center (11484 Washington Plaza, Room #1)
Register Here
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
10 a.m. - Noon
Fairfax VIEW Resource Center (12011 Government Center Parkway, Room #200)
Register Here
| | I am sorry to share that Franconia resident Walter Hammersley passed away on August 24 at 103 years old. Born on October 8, 1921, Walter enlisted in the Navy during World War II, rising to the rank of Yeoman First Class. Learn more about Walter's military service. After leaving the Navy, Walter worked for the Arlington Realty Company as an investment banker. He and his wife Elinor married in 1948 and had two children. Walter and Elinor spent most of their 67-year marriage living in Virginia, first in Falls Church then in Springfield. He was an original member of the Springfield Civic Association and saw the Springfield area grow. He was an avid Washington sports fan, even naming his dog Natitude. I'm so glad I could meet with Walter to celebrate his 100th and 103rd birthdays (pictured). | | I am sorry to share that Franconia resident Wahed Hossaini passed away. A naturalized U.S. citizen from Bangladesh, Wahed served as President of the Bangladesh Association of America, Washington, D.C., focused on preserving the culture of Bangladesh for expatriates while embracing American culture. His warm heart and volunteer efforts extended far beyond the Bangladeshi community. He served as Vice-Chair of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee, remained active in the committee until his passing, worked as a Legislative Specialist for AARP Virginia, and volunteered with Rebuild America and INOVA Fairfax Hospital. For several years, he also organized an annual food drive benefiting ECHO. I extend my condolences to his family and community. | | August 2025 Zoning Application Update | | |
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Crested Knolls Proposed Subdivision Plan
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On Thursday, August 14th, my office held a Community Information Session about the Crested Knolls Subdivision. I was joined by engineering staff from the Department of Land Development Services and the Virginia Department of Transportation. A representative from the development team was there as well. Staff shared the steps in the administrative staff review/approval process for subdivision plans. Public hearings are not a part of this review process. We heard comments from residents on a few different topics.
STORMWATER: One of the topics was stormwater, particularly as it approached the Runnymeade townhome community located immediately southeast of the proposed subdivision. Stormwater Review Engineer Daniel Rizzo from the Department of Land Development Services noted the following:
“As part of the proposed Crested Knolls subdivision, there will be an underground stormwater vault, which will collect rainwater and release the rainwater through a controlled release. Fairfax County is currently reviewing the proposal for this subdivision, which includes the underground stormwater vault. This review is done to ensure that there will not be any adverse impacts on neighboring communities downstream, including any possible impacts from the stormwater vault.”
RESOURCE PROTECTION AREAS: Another topic about this proposed subdivision was how it would impact Resource Protection Areas, otherwise known as RPAs. An RPA is environmentally sensitive land near a waterway that provides various ecological benefits to Fairfax County. These benefits include protecting water quality, filtering pollutants, reducing runoff, and preventing erosion. Protection of RPAs is managed through the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance, which is Chapter 118 of Fairfax County Code.
The map below shows the locations of RPA near the application property. The Crested Knolls Subdivision does not encroach into the RPA. To see this publicly accessible map in more detail, please click here.
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SUBDIVISION ENTRANCE LOCATION: An additional topic was the proposed entrance off of Cobbs Road and its current location. My office spoke with Land Use Engineer Joe Webb of the Virginia Department of Transportation. They said the following:
“The Virginia Department of Transportation has approved the location of the proposed entrance off of Cobbs Road. It would not be possible to move the entrance to the west, as some members of the community have asked for. This is due to sight distance requirements, which are designed to promote safety by ensuring visibility of any moving vehicles at the intersection.”
PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS: Also, some members of the community have asked about sidewalks outside the Crested Knolls Subdivision. The applicant will provide sidewalks along the Cobbs Road frontage of the Crested Knolls Subdivision. While many sections of Cobbs Road beyond the Crested Knolls Subdivision do not have sidewalks, the developer has agreed to extend the sidewalk beyond its frontage to Parcel Number 0813 55 0001, located at the intersection of Cobbs Road and Schebish Lane, if permission is granted by the property owner.
TRAFFIC: Additionally, there was discussion about certain traffic mitigation methods for Valley View Drive and Cobbs Road. There are several possible traffic mitigation solutions for these roads through the Residential Traffic Administration Program. These solutions include traffic calming, $200 Fine for Speeding signs, and Watch for Children signs. These methods have varying requirements. The applicant has agreed to pay for the mailing of the initial survey for installation of traffic mitigation solutions, up to $250.00. Our office will continue to work with the applicant and the community to evaluate and advance the appropriate traffic measures for Cobbs Road and relevant nearby roadways.
If you would like to see additional details for the different types of traffic mitigation, please click here.
If there is a road that you believe needs speed mitigation, feel free to contact my office. You can reach my office by calling 703-971-6262 or by emailing franconia@fairfaxcounty.gov. My office will be happy to help guide you through the process to see if your road qualifies for speed mitigation.
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Early voting is now open at the Franconia Governmental Center through Saturday, September 6.
Election Day is Tuesday, September 9. Early voting lasts through Saturday, September 6.
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Early Voting Locations and Hours
Fairfax County Government Center
Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Saturdays (Aug. 30 and Sept. 6): 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Franconia Governmental Center
Monday–Friday: 1 p.m.–7p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Election Day
Tuesday, September 9
6 a.m.–7p.m.
Voting by Mail
Voters may request an absentee ballot through the county’s vote-by-mail page. Applications must be submitted by Friday, Aug. 29.
Registering
The deadline to register or update your registration is Tuesday, Sept. 2. District residents can also register and vote on the same day at any early voting Sept. 3-6 or at their polling place on Election Day, Sept. 9.
Only voters who live in the 11th district may vote. To confirm your voter registration and district:
| | International Overdose Awareness Day | | |
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), observed annually on August 31st, is a campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.
Signs of an Opioid Overdose
- Shallow breathing or not breathing at all
- Snoring or gurgling sounds (this can mean that a person’s airway is partly blocked)
- Slow or no heart rate and/or pulse
- Face is pale or clammy
- Bluish purple, or ashen skin color
- Fingernails turn blue or blue-black
- Floppy arms and legs
- No response to stimulus
- Disorientation
- Unrousable (can’t be woken up)/unconscious
THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Get help if you encounter someone with these symptoms. Call 911 immediately.
If you can’t get a response from someone, don’t assume they are asleep. Not all overdoses happen quickly and sometimes it can take hours for someone to die. Action taken in those hours could save a life.
Fairfax County's Opioid and Substance Use Task Force at a Glance
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The Task Force uses a collaborative, cross-systems approach to combat the opioid epidemic’s impact in Fairfax. The select highlights represent Task Force activities from July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024, unless otherwise stated.
Find Treatment
Treatment is available. It works. Recovery is possible.
If you or someone you love needs help to overcome drug dependence, call the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board at 703-383-8500. Or, come in person to the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health at 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax. No appointment needed. Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.
In an emergency, call CSB Emergency Services at 703-573-5679 or the Fairfax Detoxification Center at 703-502-7000. Both numbers are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
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Clear the Shelters is a nationwide adoption campaign sponsored by NBC Washington and Telemundo 44 Washington, D.C. Adoption fees are waived for ALL pets Friday, August 29 - Sunday, August 31 at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. Last year, FCAS successfully adopted out 103 pets in just 3 days!
Any pets taken on Adoption Audition during this event will also have fee-waived adoptions! Adoption Auditions are available to Virginia residents only.
Event Hours:
Friday: Noon – 7 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Locations:
Michael R. Frey Campus – 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA
Lorton Campus – 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA
About the adoption process: fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt
| | New Apparatus at Fire Station 5 | | Next time you drive past Franconia Fire Station 5, look out for the new Engine 405! | | Springfield Overlook Kids Fest | | |
Magic & Music on the Overlook: A Kids Festival for the Whole Family
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of magic and music with Abracadabra Alex and Marsha and the Positrons at Springfield Overlook!
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Magic Show
- 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Concert
Location: Springfield Overlook (rooftop of the Springfield Commuter Garage)
RSVPs are requested but not required.
| | Emergency Preparedness Month | | |
September is Emergency Preparedness Month in Fairfax County. The Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security (DEMS) coordinates emergency mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery services to the residents of Fairfax County. DEMS has created Preparedness Plan Templates for families, businesses, and neighborhoods to better prepare for and respond to emergencies.
In conjunction with the Office of Public Affairs, DEMS notifies emergency responders, county employees, private partners and residents in the event of an emergency that may affect public safety. Registering for Fairfax Alerts allows residents to choose what type of alerts you would like to receive (weather, traffic and/or emergency alerts) and how you would like to receive them (email, text or voicemail).
DEMS conducts workshops (virtual or in person) to prepare your networks for an emergency:
• Introduction to Preparedness
• Until Help Arrives
• 5 Step Neighborhood Guide Workshop – Learn how to prepare for where you live.
• Business Disaster Resilience Workshop – Learn how to prepare your business.
• House of Worship Workshop – Learn how to prepare your house of worship.
• Youth Preparedness (Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, schools, etc.).
Request a presentation.
In recognition of the twenty-first annual National Preparedness Month, the City of Fairfax Office of Emergency Management and Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security are co-hosting a Community Emergency Preparedness Expo on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center (3740 Blenheim Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030) from 10 AM - 2 PM.
The event will kick off with a special family-friendly performance by Grammy Award-winning artists 123 Andrés from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Tickets are free but required for the 123 Andres show. The expo portion is open to all (no ticket needed).
| | Park Authority to Lower Lake Accotink | | |
The Fairfax County Park Authority will lower water levels at Lake Accotink after Labor Day in order to complete an assessment of the dam. The assessment is being conducted to evaluate the structure to ensure its integrity and identify any maintenance or repair needs.
The marina and dam area will remain fenced, with warning signs in place to remind park patrons to keep off the exposed lakebed for safety reasons, for several weeks. The evaluation is expected to be finished this fall. Then, it may take several weeks for the lake to return to its normal level, depending on regional precipitation.
| | Miss Fairfax County Nia Baskin | | |
I am pleased to share that Franconia resident Nia Baskin was awarded National American Miss State Queen 2nd Runner-Up. Miss Baskin is a 2022 graduate of Edison High School and currently studies exercise science at Chowan University. After graduation, Nia plans to pursue her Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy.
Nia has qualified to compete for the All-American City Queen, representing Fairfax County, in Orlando, FL this November. In an effort to offset the cost of $5000, Nia is raising funds via Double Good Popcorn.
For other sponsorship opportunities, please contact Felicia Baskin at feliciaspeaks1@gmail.com.
| | Open for Comment: FY 2025 CAPER | | |
Fairfax County’s Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has prepared a Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. The FY 2025 CAPER evaluates the County’s use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program funds for the period from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. Members of the public are invited to review the draft report and provide comments before the final draft is submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The draft FY 2025 CAPER is available online at: http://bit.ly/45B3L5W, and this public comment period runs from August 22, 2025, through September 17, 2025.
Written comments on the draft FY 2025 CAPER may be submitted online by visiting the website address above; or by e-mail: DHCDGrants@fairfaxcounty.gov; or by mail: Fairfax County Department of Housing and Community Development, ATTN: Sherryn Craig, 3700 Pender Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22030.
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The Fairfax County Solid Waste Management Program is pleased to announce the launch of a student truck art design contest. Students are encouraged to submit original artwork reflecting the theme: “imagining a zero-waste future for our communities” to inspire residents to adopt waste reduction, reuse, and recycling practices. The contest features three categories: grades 5-6, grades 7-8, and grades 9-12. Students must attend school in Fairfax County.
Participants are encouraged to use the following template for their artwork to ensure proper dimensions and quality. Download the template.
For additional requirements and to submit your artwork, go to Truck Art Contest Form.
Submissions are due by Friday, October 3, 2025.
The three winning truck sign designs will be enlarged and prominently displayed on the sides of the Fairfax County SWMP collection trucks. The winning designs will be debuted on Fairfax Recycles Day in November 2025.
Questions? Email trashmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-5230 | TTY 711.
| | Fairfax County is developing an Active Transportation and Trails Plan to create a safe, convenient, and connected network for people of all ages and abilities. Your feedback will help shape the vision for walking, biking, and trails in our community. | | |
📋 Take the survey by Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, at PublicInput.com/ATTPm or call 703-890-5898 (Project Code: 11851).
💻 Virtual Community Meetings – Learn more about the draft plan and share your thoughts:
Wednesday, Sept. 3 | 7–8 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 4 | 12–1 p.m.
For more details, visit the project webpage.
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Ride Free with Capital Bikeshare – First 30 Minutes on Us!
Grab a bike for commuting, errands, or just a joy ride with more than 80 stations in Fairfax County. Offer valid through September 15, 2025
- Use promo code: CABIFX25 in the Capital Bikeshare or Lyft App
- Download the app, scan a bike, and go!
Get rolling today and make biking part of your everyday routine.
| | Telegraph Road at Hayfield Road | | |
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Telegraph Road and Hayfield Road
Willingness to Hold a Public Hearing
Planned improvements in the area of the Telegraph Road (Route 611) and Hayfield Road (Route 635) intersection include modifying pavement markings along Telegraph Road from Broadmoor Street to Hayfield Road; relocating the crosswalk between Hayfield Secondary and Hayfield Elementary schools with a raised refuge island; and installing rectangular rapid flashing beacons.
Review project information at:
https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/TelegraphatHayfield or at VDOT’s
Northern Virginia District Office, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.
Please call ahead at 703-259-2907 or TTY/TDD 711 to make an
appointment with appropriate personnel.
The project team has conducted several public outreach efforts over the past few years, including a Public Information Meeting held in July 2024. No public comments in opposition to the proposed improvements were received during that meeting. VDOT is willing to hold a public hearing. You may request that a public hearing be held by sending a written request to:
Ms. Hong Ha, P.E.
Virginia Department of Transportation
4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
On or prior to September 10, 2025. If upon receiving public comments it is deemed necessary to hold a public hearing, notice of date, time and place of the
hearing will be posted.
| | Call for Artists: Richmond Highway BRT | | |
Fairfax County, in partnership with ArtsFairfax, is looking for talented artists to design artwork for the windscreens at the planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) ("The One") stations along a 7.4-mile stretch of Richmond Highway in southeast Fairfax County. The project – titled Community Charm – will incorporate elements of the surrounding neighborhoods into the station design based on themes developed with each community.
Eligibility: Professional artists, muralists, and graphic design professionals are invited to apply. Public art experience with comparable projects is recommended. Open to all artists and design professionals residing in the United States. Preference will be given to local and regional artists.
Applications must be submitted to Submittable by September 30, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST.
| | Franconia Rec Center Facility Renovations | | |
Facility renovations at Franconia Rec Center have begun. Renovations will focus on upgrading key heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems serving the fitness center, racquetball courts and pool.
To safely complete the work, the facility will undergo temporary closures:
- Fitness Center and Racquetball Courts: Closed until Sept. 16
- Pool, Family Change Room and upper level: Closed until Sept. 5
- Full Building and Parking Lot Closures:
- Wednesday, Sept. 3 (backup day Thursday, Sept. 4)
| | Building Paths Contruction Trades Career Pathway Program | | |
Cooling Centers
When the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory, excessive heat watch, or excessive heat warning, the County activates its Extreme Heat Response Plan.
Visit indoor locations during operating hours to stay cool. In addition to shopping malls, stores or movie theaters, you may consider cooling off at one of our county facilities designated as Cooling Centers, including:
You are encouraged to first check that locations are open before you arrive. View the cooling centers map.
| | Remember, our furry friends are especially vulnerable to the heat. Never leave your pets in a hot car, even for a few minutes—it can be deadly! If you see an animal left alone in a parked vehicle, call the non-emergency police line at 703-691-2131. | | |
Senior Cool Care Program
If you’re 60 or older, you may also be eligible for a fan or air conditioning unit through the Senior Cool Care Program. To learn more, please call the Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948.
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September 1: End of Discovery Trail Map Challenge (Learn more)
September 1: Stephen A. McLaughlin Fairfax County Champions of Character Awards nomination deadline (Learn more)
September 2: Braddock District All-Abilities Park information session (Register)
September 6: In-person vacuum leaf collection information session
September 6: Deer management archery program begins (Learn more)
September 10: Virtual vacuum leaf collection information session (Microsoft Teams Meeting Link)
September 15: Bike Fairfax offer expires (Learn more)
September 19: Survey deadline for the Active Transportation and Trails Plan (Learn more and take the survey)
September 30: Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program application deadline (Learn more)
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