Dranesville District Office, McLean.
Dranesville Dispatch

January 2014:  Issue 27  

 

News and Information for

Dranesville District Residents

John Foust
Dranesville District Supervisor  

Contact us at:
Dranesville District Supervisor
6649-A Old Dominion Drive
McLean, VA 22101
Phone: 703-356-0551
Fax: 703-821-4275
Email:  Dranesville@FairfaxCounty.gov
  

A Message from Supervisor John Foust ...

Dear Dranesville Resident,

 

Welcome to the January 2014 issue of the Dranesville Dispatch. I wish all of you a Happy New Year and hope that you and your family are staying safe and warm during the snow and freezing temperatures of the last few weeks.

 

Soon we will have some very exciting news regarding the funding of transportation projects in Fairfax County.  Watch for a special notice from me after the January 28 meeting of the Board of Supervisors where the Board will vote on the County's Six-Year Transportation Plan.

 

This month we welcome a new Dranesville District Planning Commissioner, John Ulfelder.  John is taking over the position from the very capable Jay Donahue, who has served our district and been indispensable for six years.  I wish to thank Jay for his hard work, dedication and accomplishments during his time as Commissioner.  I look forward to working with John. 

 

Fairfax County Park Authority planning is in the news.  Included in this issue are articles on changes to the master plans for Langley Forks Park and McLean Central Park in McLean and the completed report of the Salona Park Task Force, with recommendations to the Park Authority as it develops the new park's master plan.  In other park news, the Park Authority completed the installation of two new lighted turf fields in Lewinsville Park.

 

As always, I welcome your thoughts on how to best serve the Dranesville community. Please feel free to contact my office with your suggestions and concerns. It is an honor to serve you.

 

John Foust

Dranesville District Supervisor

In This Issue
Welcome Letter
DRANESVILLE DISTRICT NEWS
John Ulfelder Named Dranesville District Planning Commissioner
McLean Government Center Renovation and Expansion Status Update
Westmoreland Street and Haycock Road Intersection Improved
Kirk Kincannon Named New Director of Fairfax County Park Authority
Capital One Relocates 10 Trees to Lewinsville Park in McLean
Synthetic Turf Fields Officially Open at Lewinsville Park
McLean Central Park Master Plan Revision Approved by Fairfax County Park Authority
Salona Park Master Plan Update
Langley Forks Park Master Plan Update
Stacey Kincaid Sworn in as Fairfax County Sheriff
VDOT Public Hearing on Route 7 over Dulles Airport Toll Road Bridge Replacement
I-66 Construction Update: Soundwalls and extended travel lanes
VDOT Repairing Potholes in Northern Virginia
2013 Tysons Report to Board of Supervisors Available for Review
Dulles Metrorail Phase I and Phase II Overview
Upcoming Dranesville Land Use Cases
Speak out on Great Falls Transportation Issues by Taking the Great Falls Transportation Survey
McLean Citizens Association Conducting OnLine Survey of McLean Residents
Dranesville Tax Relief Workshops March 11 and March 18
New Bicycle Hitches Installed in Central McLean
Dranesville "Aging in Community" Update
RECOGNITIONS
Champions of Character Awards Given
Great Falls Resident Sarah Kirk and Great Falls Trail Blazers Recognized with Elly Doyle Awards
Great Falls Resident Camille Speer Takes 1st Place in Peer Promise TIVA Award
Herndon Resident David Lavery Wins 2013 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal
Wolf Trap Fire Station Receives 2013 NAIOP Award of Excellence
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Celebrate Fairfax to Award Community Spirit Scholarships
Fairfax County Sheriff's Office Announces College Scholarship Opportunity
Fairfax County "Informed Consumer" E-Newsletter Now Available
Quick Links
DRANESVILLE DISTRICT NEWS

John Ulfelder Named Dranesville District Planning Commissioner

 

John C. Ulfelder of McLean has been selected as the new Dranesville representative to the Fairfax County Planning Commission by Supervisor John Foust. Mr. Ulfelder will fill the vacancy left by the departure of Jay Donahue who, after six excellent years of service, has decided to step down in order to spend more time with his grandchildren.

 

Mr. Ulfelder retired in 2010 as a Senior Vice President and partner from

WEST*GROUP. He previously worked at the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency for thirteen years as an attorney in the Office of Enforcement, the Office of General Counsel and as a Special Assistant to the Administrator of EPA and Executive Assistant to the Deputy Administrator of EPA. He worked at the Smithsonian Institution from 1973-75 and the General Counsel's Office of the United States Commission on Civil Rights from 1967 to 1972.

 

Mr. Ulfelder received a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an LL.B. from the University of Pennsylvania School of Law.  He is a member of the Bar of the District of Columbia.

 

Mr. Ulfelder served on the last four Dranesville District Area Plan Review (APR) Task

Forces and served as chairman during the two most recent reviews (2004 and 2008). He served as chairman of the Hunter Mill Road Area Special Study in 2005 and 2006. He served on the Dranesville District Budget Review Task Forces for fiscal years 2012, 2013 and 2014 (Chairman for fiscal year 2014). Most recently he served on the Rt. 28 Station ("Innovation") South Working Group.

 

Active with a number of local community groups and non-profit organizations, Mr. Ulfelder served on the board of the Great Falls Citizens Association from 1991 to 2003, president from 1997 to 2000, and chair of the Land Use and Zoning Committee from 2001 to 2005.   He is very active and serves on numerous boards including the Audubon Naturalist Society of the Mid-Atlantic, the McLean Project for the Arts, the McLean Orchestra, the INOVA Health System Foundation, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority Foundation, Great Falls Heritage Inc, WETA, and the Virginia chapter of The Nature Conservancy.

McLean Government Center Renovation and Expansion Status Update

Estimated Completion Date is December 2014

 

The first phase of the renovation and expansion of the McLean Governmental Center, located at 1437 Balls Hill Road, is now complete.  The work, which began in August of 2012 is part of multi-phased project to expand the governmental center to accommodate projected police staffing needs through the year 2030.  The original April 2014 completion date has been delayed because of unexpected difficulties with utility relocation, septic tank removal and weather interruptions.  The expansion and renovation is now expected to be completed by December 2014.

 

The building expansion will add 17,600 square feet for a total of 39,200 square feet.

 

Work completed during the first phase included the expansion of community meeting space to two rooms, police support spaces and new mechanical and electrical rooms. Reconfiguration of the police parking lot is also complete, and a new lot has been constructed over an underground stormwater detention structure in the rear of the building.

 

The government center, constructed in 1970, underwent its last renovation and expansion in 1980. This project is financed with public-safety bond funds approved by voters in a 2006 referendum.

 

During the second phase, the police will move into the now vacated Supervisor's office while renovation continues in the police wing of the building. The Dranesville District Supervisor's office has been temporarily relocated to the McLean Square Shopping Center during construction located at 6649-A Old Dominion Drive, McLean.

Westmoreland Street and Haycock Road Intersection Improved
Right Turn Lane, Walkway and Pedestrian Signal Installed
  
On November 5, Supervisor John Foust, Haycock Elementary School Principal, Dr. Kelly Sheers, and Fairfax County Departments of Transportation and Capital Facilities personnel met at the intersection of Westmoreland Street and Haycock Road to celebrate the completion of a pedestrian walkway, signal crossing and right turn lane recently installed by Fairfax County.  The transportation improvements coincided with significant changes to the kiss-and-ride and parking facilities at Haycock Elementary School constructed by Fairfax County Public Schools.  The new walkway connects to an existing trail on the east side of Westmoreland Street,
Before (above) and after (below): Facing north Westmoreland Street at Haycock Road.
across from Placid Street.  The sidewalk continues south on Westmoreland Street, west on Haycock Road, and terminates at an existing trail at the western entrance of Haycock Elementary School. 
 
These transportation improvements were initiated in 2009 by Supervisor Foust and funded by Fairfax County Commercial and Industrial tax revenues.   Construction efforts took place over the summer months of 2013 with the project substantially completed in October 2013.
 
Westmoreland Street is a busy road that serves as a primary walking route for students of Haycock Elementary School and Longfellow Middle School.  With the completion of the walkway, there is now continuous pedestrian access along the west side of Westmoreland Street between Kirby Road and Haycock Road.  A walkway between the Chesterbrook Taiwanese Presbyterian Church and Temple Rodef Shalom was recently constructed with 2007 Transportation Bond money.  In addition, at the request of Supervisor Foust, Fairfax County has installed other pedestrian safety measures along Westmoreland Street, including: 

Present for the event were Tom Biesiadny, Director of Fairfax County Department of Transportation; Dranesville Supervisor John Foust; Department of Transportation Senior Transportation Planner, Tad Borkowski; Haycock Elementary School Principal, Dr. Kelly Sheers; Construction Project Engineer Fairfax County Capital Facilities Department, Lisa McCorkle; and Michael J. Stevens, Engineering Inspector Fairfax County Capital Facilities Department.

  • Several pedestrian crossing medians.
  • Upgraded crosswalks and signage.
  • An experimental "Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon" at McLean High School.
In addition, the Haycock Road segment of the new walkway completes a missing pedestrian link to provide continuous sidewalk on the northern side of Haycock Road from Boxwood Drive to the West Falls Church Metro Station.
 
"These are long-needed changes," said Supervisor Foust.  "Students at Haycock can now safely walk that last block to school and cross this busy intersection with pedestrian-activated walk lights.  Drivers should also notice improvements with the additional right turn lane on Westmoreland."  

Kirk Kincannon Named New Director of Fairfax County Park Authority

 

Kirk Kincannon has been named the new Director of the Fairfax County Park Authority, effective January 27.  Mr. Kincannon's appointment was confirmed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors at its November 19 meeting.

 

Kincannon formerly served as the director of parks and recreation for the City of Boulder, Colorado.  He began his park and recreation career in Fairfax County, first serving as a recreation coordinator with the Town of Herndon for four years before coming to the Fairfax County Park Authority for 10 years from 1985 to 1995. His work at the Park Authority included positions at Mount Vernon RECenter and Lee District Park and RECenter. He also served as manager of Lake Accotink Park for seven years.

 

Prior to his position in Colorado, Kincannon served as the director of recreation, parks and cultural activities for the City of Alexandria, from 2004 to 2009.  He also served as deputy director of parks, natural resources and capital projects with Alexandria for four years. In addition, Kincannon spent five years as the director of parks, recreation and tourism for Wythe County, Virginia.  Kincannon grew up in Fairfax County and received a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure services and physical education from Virginia Wesleyan College.

Capital One Relocates 10 Trees to Lewinsville Park in McLean

 

From left to right are Vikrant Yalavarti, development manager, Cassidy Turley; Bobbi Longworth, executive director, Fairfax County Park Foundation; Barry Mark, senior director corporate real estate, Capital One; Jane Edmondson, chief of staff, Dranesville District Supervisor's Office; Andy Galusha, project manager, Fairfax County Park Authority; Margaret Thaxton, development director, Fairfax County Park Foundation; and Vance Zavela, partnership developer, Office of Public Private Partnerships.
The office of Supervisor John Foust, the Fairfax County Park Foundation, the Fairfax County Office of Public Private Partnerships, and the Fairfax County Park Authority met at Lewinsville Park in McLean on November 25, to recognize Capital One's donation of 10 red maple trees. The trees were moved during construction of Capital One's new world headquarters in Tysons Corner, and now provide a natural barrier between the park's new synthetic turf fields and public gardening area.

 

When Supervisor Foust learned that Capital One's construction plan required trees to be cut down or moved, he suggested the trees be donated to the Park Authority. After reviewing the available trees, the parks that could benefit from additional trees, current construction projects, and sites with access for heavy equipment, the Park Authority determined that Lewinsville Park was the best location for the trees.  On behalf of the Park Authority and the community, Supervisor Foust extends our gratitude for Capital One's generosity. 

  

Synthetic Turf Fields Officially Open at Lewinsville Park

 

On October 26, Dranesville Supervisor John Foust, members of the community, County staff, Park Authority Board members, Athletic Council members, and McLean Youth Soccer representatives gathered with young soccer players to mark the official opening of two new synthetic turf fields at Lewinsville Park, located on Chain Bridge Road in McLean.

 

Pictured from left to right are: Jane Scott-Jones, MYS; Paul Jansen, Neighborhood and Community Services; Louise Waxler, MYS; Park Authority Board Member Mike Thompson, Springfield District; Park Authority Board Chairman Bill Bouie; David Bowden, Director of Park Planning and Development; Ed Busenlehner, Area Manager; Jack Hannon, President, West Lewinsville Heights Citizens Association; Bill Gray, MYS; Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust; Craig Carinci, Director, Stormwater Planning Division, DPWES; Peter Freire, Chair, McLean Youth Soccer; Desmond O'Rourke, West Lewinsville Heights Citizens Association; and Betsy Smith, Stormwater Planning Division, DPWES.

Supervisor Foust noted that this project required cooperation and strong partnerships in order to become a reality. He congratulated the many project participants for their outstanding efforts and willingness to work together.  The project began early last summer and was funded through Park Bonds, a Department of Neighborhood and Community Services mini-grant program, and a partnership with McLean Youth Soccer/McLean Youth Football.

 

The project is part of the ongoing effort by Fairfax County to meet the growing need for rectangular fields and address the current field shortage. When Supervisor Foust took office in 2008, there was only one synthetic turf field in the Dranesville District. The completion of these two fields brings the total number to 13, including the stadium fields at each of the high schools in the Dranesville district. A 14th synthetic turf field will be completed next year at the McLean Governmental Center.

 

The development of the Lewinsville Park fields meets all general guidelines and standards established under the synthetic turf program including lighting. Lighted synthetic turf fields increase field capacity by approximately 62%.

McLean Central Park Master Plan Revision Approved by Fairfax County Park Authority

 

The updating of the McLean Central Park Master Plan has been completed by the Fairfax County Park Authority.  The revision, coordinated with the McLean community over the past year, was particularly needed to determine the best way to utilize two acres of land recently added to the park.  The park, located in the heart of McLean, is enjoyed for its open green spaces, wooded trails, and playground.

 

Informed by three public meetings and extensive community input, the Park Authority approved the master plan revision on November 13.  The approved plan retains the character of the core park with additions including a bocce court, an outdoor fitness area, a grove of trees, and some trail enhancements.  In addition, a new amphitheater expanding options for enjoying a variety of performing arts and community events, is planned for the two-acre addition to the park.

 

At this time, no funding has been allocated for changes to the park site.

 

The approved plan is available for viewing on the Park Authority's Master Plan Archives web page at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/plandev/mparchives.htm.

Salona Park Master Plan Update
  
The Salona Park site is a 52-acre property located at the intersection of Buchanon Road and Dolley Madison Boulevard in McLean. The property has a rich history, first as part of an original colonial land grant to the Lee family. In addition, during the War of 1812, President James Madison and his family took refuge at the family homestead. It was also used as a Union encampment during the Civil War.

 

In 2005, the Fairfax County Park Authority, the owners of Salona Park (the DuVal family) and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors entered into an agreement whereby the owners would grant under a perpetual conservation easement approximately 41.5 acres of the property for use as parkland. The easement does not include the historic Salona house.

 

In 2010, the Park Authority presented to the community a draft master plan for Salona Park which provided for two rectangular sports fields, a 100-car parking lot, trails, other active and passive recreation uses and preservation of some of the natural and historic areas of the property.

 

Because of issues raised at the community meeting, Supervisor John Foust and former Dranesville representative to the Fairfax County Park Authority Board, Kevin Fay, appointed the Salona Park Task Force to serve as an advisory body with members representing a wide range of public interests. The Task Force members included one representative from:

  • Northern Virginia Conservation Trust
  • Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce
  • McLean Citizens Association
  • McLean Youth Athletics
  • Fairfax County History Commission
  • Surrounding Neighborhoods
  • Conservation Easement Grantors

In addition, Supervisor Foust and Kevin Fay each appointed a member to the task force.

 

The mission of the Task Force, chaired by Margaret Malone of the McLean Citizens Association, was "to expand on efforts to bring the diverse ideas and perspectives of the community into the park planning process, and reach out to the community and interested groups to solicit and develop recommendations that can be incorporated into the Master Plan."

 

The Task Force began meeting in September 2011 and heard from community groups, non-profits and individuals regarding development ideas for the park.  It visited public parks, consulted with Park Authority and other County experts on subjects as wide ranging as soil types, topography, resource protection agencies and archaeological resources.

 

In October 2012, the Task Force held a well-attended community information meeting where it offered a series of presentations reflecting the diverse proposed uses. Visitors were encouraged to fill in comment sheets offering their thoughts on the proposals and other suggestions.

 

In December 2013, the Task Force presented its report to Supervisor Foust and Richard "Rip" Sullivan, the current Dranesville representative to the Park Authority.  Entitled, "The Future of Salona Park", the report recommends that Salona Park be developed as a History and Environmental Learning Center, to serve people of all ages. In formulating its recommendations, the Task Force took account of facilities offered at other County parks in the McLean area and to the draft Park Authority plans for the Langley Fork Park. As envisioned by the Task Force, Salona Park would have  a "green" building visitors center with library and public spaces for lectures and other presentations; a system of trails; and an area for farming activities such as children's gardens, farm-to-table programs, and historical agricultural practices. The Task Force report also recommends that the Park Authority consider parking, traffic and safety issues during the park planning process.

 

Now that the Task Force has issued its report, the Park Authority will restart the process of preparing the Master Plan for Salona Park. The Park Authority process will include public hearings to share its plan with the public.

 

At this time, no funding has been allocated to development of the park site.

   
For additional information on the work of the Salona Park Task Force, please visit the Park Authority's website at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/plandev/salona.htm.

Langley Forks Park Master Plan Update

 
For a number of years, Park Authority officials and representatives of athletic groups in the area have sought improved and expanded athletic facilities at Langley Fork Park. Progress has been slow, but recently, several important steps have been taken to move closer to this goal.
 
The National Park Service (NPS) owns the 54-acre park and permits the Fairfax County Park Authority to manage and operate the park under a special permit. The park contains two diamond fields, two rectangular fields, basketball courts and a fitness trail.
   
The NPS hasn't made any investments in the park since 1980, and because the Park Authority operates on a year-to-year lease, there has been little incentive for the agency to do so either.
 
As far back as 2009, there have been discussions about a land swap, whereby NPS would swap Langley Fork Park for an amount of land at an equivalent value at Langley Oaks Park, which is adjacent to the George Washington Parkway, a road owned by the NPS.
 
The Park Authority has been working on a draft master plan. It shared its preliminary ideas with the public last October. The meeting was very well attended, and many good ideas were received.
 
The park is currently developed with two diamond fields, two rectangle fields, basketball courts, fitness trails and parking while much of the park remains wooded. The draft plan would add two new rectangular fields, one diamond field, a pavilion, a fitness zone, a dog park and expanded parking. All the rectangular fields would have artificial turf, and all but one of the playing fields would have lights. Park Authority staff is now reviewing comments received from the public to determine if the plan should be revised. Some of the park's immediate neighbors have raised concerns about noise and traffic. If the Park Authority approves the master plan, a traffic study will be required.
 
Concurrent with the Park Authority's work on the Master Plan, is the environmental assessment being conducted by the NPS. NPS explained the process to the public at a meeting on January 14th. It is hoped that the environmental statement will be completed by the end of the year.
 
There is a need for additional athletic fields for youth and adults in McLean, and the development at Langley Fork Park provides a wonderful opportunity to provide them. Development must be balanced, however, with the impacts on the surrounding neighbors. Supervisor Foust is eager to work with the community as the planning process moves forward.

Stacey Kincaid Sworn in as Fairfax County Sheriff

 

Sheriff Stacey Kincaid was sworn in as the 77th Sheriff of Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax on Tuesday, November 26.  Sheriff Kincaid, the first female Sheriff of the County, won a special election on November 5 to fill a term that ended in December 2015 with the retirement of Sheriff Stan Berry.  Mark Sites served as interim sheriff prior the special election.

 

Kincaid is a 26-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office and has served in line and supervisory positions in agency operations, including confinement, alternatives to incarceration, court security and administration. She has taken an active leadership role in community relations, especially concerning the safety and well-being of children and underserved populations. In 2008 she received the agency's highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes a career of sustained, exemplary performance.

 

Sheriff Kincaid is a graduate of the Leadership Fairfax Program. She received her bachelor's degree in Political Science/Criminal Justice from Frostburg State College in 1987.

February 13:  VDOT Public Hearing on Route 7 over Dulles Airport Toll Road Bridge Replacement

  

On February 13, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will hold a public hearing on plans to replace the two bridges carrying Route 7 over the Dulles Toll Road, as well as widen them to accommodate an additional lane on each bridge. The project would also include a 14-foot-wide shared-use path to tie into future planned trails.

 

Meeting Details:

Thursday, February 13, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

(Open house format -- no presentation)

Colvin Run Elementary School

1400 Trap Road

Vienna

(If cancelled due to weather: Thursday, Feb. 20)

 

Stop by between 6 p.m. and 8p.m. to view displays and learn more about the project. VDOT staff will be available to answer your questions.

 

You may review project information and the environmental documentation at www.virginiadot.org, at the public hearing, or at VDOT's Northern Virginia District Office at 4975 Alliance Drive in Fairfax. Please call ahead at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) or TTY/TDD 711 to ensure the availability of appropriate personnel to answer your questions. Property impact information, relocation assistance policies and tentative construction schedules are available for review at the above address and will be available at the public hearing.

 

You may give your written or oral comments at the hearing or submit them by March 3, 2014 to Mr. Arifur Rahman, at the VDOT District Office address above. You may also e-mail comments to meeting_comments@vdot.virginia.gov. Please reference "Route 7 over DATR" in the subject line.

I-66 Construction Update:  Soundwalls and Extended Travel Lanes Near Dulles Access Road Turn-Off

 

VDOT has just begun the construction phase of a project that will add a one-mile auxiliary lane on west-bound I-66 between the Washington Blvd on-ramp and the Dulles Airport Access Road turn-off lanes.  The project will include a new 12-foot-wide shoulder and the replacement of soundwalls along most of the project length.  The project is intended to improve operations and safety on west-bound I-66 and is estimated to be completed by late summer 2015.  Construction will take place during night time hours when lane-closures are required on I-66.  Residents along the north side of the project scope may hear night-time noise during these periods.

 

A similar project was completed in December 2011, extending the acceleration lane at the Fairfax Drive on-ramp (just west of George Mason Drive) to the deceleration lane at the Sycamore Street off-ramp, creating a continuous auxiliary lane of almost two miles between the two ramps. A new 12-foot-wide shoulder was also constructed.

A third project between Lee Highway and Glebe Road is planned but not yet fully funded for construction.

 

To view the project plans visit http://virginiadot.org/projects/resources/NorthernVirginia/I-66_Spot_2_plans.pdfFor more information visit the project website at http://virginiadot.org/projects/northernvirginia/i-66_spot_2.asp

VDOT Repairing Potholes in Northern Virginia

Report your favorite potholes to VDOT now

 

Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews are out in full force patching potholes following recent winter storms. Patching operations are prioritized by pothole severity and location, with potholes on high-traffic roads filled within 24 hours of being reported.  Drivers should watch for crews and lane closures during off-peak hours.
  
To report a pothole, citizens should visit http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/citizen.asp or call VDOT's Customer Service Center at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623). TTY users, call 711. Northern Virginia drivers can also e-mail novainfo@vdot.virginia.gov.  
 
Crews in northern Virginia patch potholes on roads in Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun Counties. If the pothole is in a city, town, or Arlington County, please call the public works department in that location.
 
Safe driving tips, pothole patching videos and other useful information on potholes is also available on VDOT's website at http://www.virginiadot.org/info/faq-potholes.asp. 

2013 Tysons Report to Board of Supervisors Available for Review

 

"The 2013 Report to the Board of Supervisors on Tysons" provides monitoring data and updates on the progress of implementing the vision for Tysons contained in the

Comprehensive Plan for Tysons, approved by the Board of Supervisors on June 22, 2010. The report covers activity related to Tysons from the Plan adoption in June 2010 through September 2013.

 

The public can view the report at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/tysons/download/2013tysonsannualreport.pdf.

 

Highlights of major accomplishments during the past year include:

Questions on the 2013 Report, or requests for a printed copy, should be submitted to

tysons@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Dulles Metrorail Phase I Nears Completion

 

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) has estimated that work on Phase I of the Silver Line Metrorail project is now 99% complete.  The Phase I public opening was originally scheduled for December 31, 2013, but has been delayed several months. Control of the first phase is expected to be turned over to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) in February.

 

The new line runs from East Falls Church to Wiehle Avenue on the eastern edge of Reston with four stations in Tysons (McLean Station, Tysons Station, Greensboro Station, Spring Hill Station) and one Reston station (Wiehle-Reston East Station).

 

Finishing touches including painting, lighting, and signage are taking place at the stations. Final testing of the system is also underway and is required to be completed before WMATA takes over the Silver Line.

 

A 711-space surface parking lot, adjacent to the McLean Station, is expected to be operational by the opening of the Silver Line service. The lot, developed by Cityline Partners, is in response to a request by Supervisor Foust in 2010, and adopted by the Board, to identify commuter parking opportunities in Tysons.

 

Phase II of the Silver Line project is underway and is projected to be completed in 2018. This final 11-mile section of the Silver Line includes six stations: Reston Town Center, Herndon, Innovation Center, Dulles International Airport, Route 606 and Route 772.

 

For more information about the Metro Silver Line project, please contact Benjamin Wiles in the office of Supervisor John Foust at Benjamin.Wiles@FairfaxCounty.gov.

 

Upcoming Land Use Cases in Dranesville

 

The following land use applications are under review by Fairfax County. The review process includes public hearings before the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors.

 

William Weiss (PCA 86-D -108)
9416 Atwood Road, Vienna

The applicant seeks approval of a partial Proffered Condition Amendment application to amend the proffers associated with RZ 86-D-108. The amendment would permit the removal of the existing dwelling on the property and the construction of a new single-family detached dwelling, necessitating the removal of trees and modifications to the limits of clearing and grading. The applicant also requests approval of a special permit for an accessory dwelling unit to be located within the proposed dwelling.

  • The applicant has been meeting with adjacent property owners and the McLean Citizens Association.
  • The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the application to the Board of Supervisors at its November 21, 2013 meeting.
  • Board of Supervisors hearing: February 11, 2014.

TD Bank, N.A. (SE 2013-DR-001)
9901 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls

Proposed Special Exception to allow a drive-through, as part of an allowed bank use. The split-zoned parcel is zoned C6 and C8, and is the site of a former Exxon Gas station.

  • The applicant has been meeting with the Great Falls Citizens Association and adjacent property owners.
  • The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the application to the Board of Supervisors at its January 9, 2014 meeting.
  • Board of Supervisors hearing: February 25, 2014.

Federal Realty Investment Trust (PCA 85-D-081-02)
6252 Old Dominion Drive, McLean

(Chesterbrook Shopping Center)

Applicant proposes to amend proffers associated with an approved 1986 rezoning application for the Chesterbrook Shopping Center located in McLean. The amendment would allow for a wider range of permitted uses including eating establishments, financial institutions, offices, repair services, and others. The applicant proposes no changes to square footage, gross floor area, parking or any other physical improvements.

  • The applicant has been meeting with, adjacent property owners, the McLean. Citizens Association, and the Franklin Area Citizens Association.
  • Planning Commission hearing: March 13, 2014.
  • Board of Supervisors hearing: Date to be announced.

Elm Street Residential, LLP (RZ/FDP 2012-DR-019)
6862 Elm Street, McLean

Proposal to amend Comprehensive Plan and to rezone parcel in the Community Business Center from C-3 to Planned Residential Mixed-Use (PRM). Applicant proposes to develop an existing surface parking lot with a 240-multifamily mid-rise and a separate two-story building with up to 8,720 square feet of retail.

  • The applicant has been meeting with the McLean Citizens Association, the McLean Planning Committee and adjacent property owners.
  • Plan Amendment Planning Commission hearing: February 13, 2014.
  • Plan Amendment Board of Supervisors hearing: March 25, 2014.
  • Rezoning Planning Commission hearing: May 7, 2014.
  • Rezoning Board of Supervisors hearing: May 13, 2014.

CWS VII, LLC (SE 2013-DR-019)
1301 Trap Road, Vienna

Applicant seeks Special Exception approval to construct a telecommunications facility housed within a 140-foot tall bell tower on a 7-acre property zoned R-1. Application is associated with Special Permit SPA 83-D-045-03. The Special Permit, reviewed by the Board of Zoning Appeals, is required to amend a previously approved permit for the existing church use. The application will undergo Planning Commission review under Fairfax County's 2232 Process, which applies to all public areas, public buildings or structures and public utility or public service corporation facilities, whether publicly or privately owned.

  • The applicant has been meeting with the McLean Citizens Association, Windsor Meadows HOA, and adjacent property owners.
  • Planning Commission hearing: May 21, 2014.
  • Board of Supervisors hearing: Date to be announced.

JLB DULLES TECH LLC (PCA 79-C-037, RZ/FDP 2013-DR-017, SE 2013-DR-022 )
South side of Dulles Technology Drive approximately 450 feet east of its intersection with River Birch Road.

JLB Realty LLC proposes to develop a vacant 11-acre property located within the Dulles Technology Center for residential use. The proposal includes two mid-rise residential buildings containing a total of approximately 500 dwelling units. A Partial Proffered Condition Amendment is required as well as a rezoning to the Planned Residential Mixed-Use District. This application also includes a Special Exception Application request to allow an extension of the development into the existing floodplain.

  • The applicant will be meeting with the Coppermine Crossing Condo Association and adjacent property owners.
  • Planning Commission hearing: June 5, 2014.
  • Board of Supervisors hearing: Date to be announced.

Washington Real Estate Investment Trust, LP (RZ/FDP 2013-DR-002, PCA-C-220)
1350 Beverly Road, McLean

Applicant proposes to add 253 multifamily units in four buildings, including 14,500 square feet of ground floor retail to the existing Ashby apartment community in the McLean Community Business Center.

  • The applicant has been meeting with the McLean Citizens Association, the McLean Planning Committee and adjacent property owners.
  • Planning Commission hearing: Date to be announced.
  • Board of Supervisors hearing: Date to be announced.

Look for announcements of future community meetings relating to applications in the monthly Dranesville Happenings publication found at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dranesville/newsletters.htm.

 

For more information contact Ben Wiles in the office of Supervisor Foust at Benjamin.Wiles@FairfaxCounty.gov  or call 703-356-0551.

Speak out on Great Falls Transportation Issues by Taking the Great Falls Transportation Survey
 
The Great Falls Citizens Association (GFCA) is surveying residents of Great Falls to gather current opinions on some important community transportation and environmental topics.  In 2007, the GFCA conducted the "2020 Survey", addressing these topics and others.  (View a summary of the 2020 Survey results at http://gfca.org/documents/2020_Vision_Survey_Results.pdf.)  The GFCA now asks Great Falls residents to express their opinions by taking two new surveys:  The Transportation Survey (available now) and the Environment Survey (available in late February).  Data gathered from these community surveys will guide GFCA's work as an advocate for Great Falls. The results will help GFCA determine which issues the community feels are important, and help GFCA understand community preferences as the area continues to grow and evolve.
  
To take the Transportation Survey, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3LHWCH9
  
A link to the Environment Survey will be accessible from the GFCA website (www.gfca.org) in late February 2013.
 
Over the past 20 to 30 years, Great Falls has changed from a rural community to one that is more densely populated. Wooded areas have been replaced by neighborhoods, and the number of households has grown. The new Metro Silver Line will bring more jobs and people to Tysons and Reston, further impacting Great Falls' roads. Overall, the growth in Great Falls and the surrounding areas is creating a number of new and difficult challenges for transportation and the environment.
 
GFCA knows that you care about your community. Please take the time to share your views about these important topics.
McLean Citizens Association Conducting On-Line Survey of McLean Residents 
 
It's not too late to participate in the McLean Citizens Association's survey on community perspectives and desires at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/McLeanAreaSurvey.  
 
Your responses on what you like about McLean, what you would like to see preserved, and what changes you would like to see will help MCA focus on what matters to McLean residents in 2014 and beyond.  The survey is short -- only 10 questions -- and should take only a few minutes to complete.
 
For more information, please contact MCA President, Sally Horn at s-horn@verizon.net or Animesh Gupta at indoraj@gmail.com.
Dranesville Tax Relief Workshops March 11 and March 18 for Older Adults and People with Disabilities
  
Supervisor John Foust is hosting two free tax relief workshops in March at the Dranesville District office. Real estate tax relief is available for seniors and people with disabilities who meet certain qualifications.   Staff from the Department of Tax Administration (DTA) will assist residents with completing the tax relief application form and answer questions.
  
Dranesville District Tax Relief Workshop Dates:

 

Tuesday, March 11 and Tuesday, March 18
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
6649-A Old Dominion Drive
McLean
(NOTE: The Dranesville District Office has been temporarily relocated to the
McLean Square (Balducci's) Shopping Center)
  

 

To schedule an appointment, please call Patricia Dinkelmeyer in the office of Supervisor Foust at 703-356-0551.  For a detailed list of qualifications visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dta/taxrelief_faq.htm.

 

Residents may also be eligible for car tax and rental grant relief. 
  
If you cannot attend a workshop and would like information on tax relief please call 703-222-8234 (TTY 703-222-7594) or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dta/taxrelief_home.htm.
New Bicycle Hitches Installed in Central McLean 

 

On November 14, area bicycle advocates, local elected officials, business leaders and the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce gathered in downtown McLean to dedicate newly installed bicycle racks.  The racks were purchased and installed with contributions from the I-495 Expresss Lanes organization and area businesses.  The project was conceived and implemented with the support of bicycle advocate and McLean resident Dennis Frew, Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust and the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce. 

Two new bicycle hitches at McLean Square shopping center.  (Photo credit: Dennis Frew)
Bicycle stands have been installed at Staybridge Suites McLean-Tysons Corner (two hitches), Greenberry's Coffee and McLean Properties (two hitches), Giant (four hitches) and the McLean Square shopping center (two hitches).
 
The installation of the bicycle hitches are part of an ongoing effort by Supervisor Foust to make McLean a walkable and bikable community.  In 2008, Supervisor Foust created the McLean Pedestrian and Bicycle Task force with the objective of identifying ways to make McLean more pedestrian and bicycle friendly.  In addition, with funding obtained by the Supervisor, McLean became the first community in Fairfax County to have bicycle wayfinding signs last summer when approximately 80 directional signs were installed along recommended bicycle routes throughout the greater McLean area.
Dranesville "Aging in Community" Update

 

"Aging in Community" is a national movement whereby communities are exploring ways for seniors to stay in their own homes, or "age in community" and more fully enjoy their senior years. Supervisor Foust and his staff continue to work with community groups in Great Falls, Herndon and McLean to explore concepts and ideas to better understand and meet the needs of seniors as they facilitate "aging in community". Here is an update on the ongoing Aging in Community efforts in Dranesville:

 
Great Falls

 

The Great Falls Senior Center without Walls (GFSC) and its Board of Directors were created to enrich the lives of the Great Falls community's mature adults with stimulating programs and social networking opportunities.  GFSC highlights:

  • New officers and Board of Directors were elected in January with each Director to serve a two-year term beginning January 1, 2014.  The Board along with the Working Group are made up of volunteers that put on programs monthly. 
  • On February 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the GFSC along with the Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services will present the program "An Interactive Discussion of the Inventions of the 20th and 21st Centuries that have Changed the World".  The event will include a luncheon and music performed by Todd Thatcher, baritone, and accompanied by Tony Favero.  The event will be held at the United Methodist Church, 10100 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls.  Reservations are a must.  Contact Polly Fitzgerald by email at pollyfitz1@verizon.net or call 703-759-4345.  Guests who require transportation to attend may call Gene or Maddie McCabe at 703-438-0810.

Herndon

 

The Herndon Village Network (HVN) committee meets each month to discuss Herndon's aging in place program.  The HVN elects its Board in January for one year terms.  HVN is made up of volunteers with support from the County to help support Herndon's residents, aged 55 and over. The Herndon Village Network will help enable seniors to age in place, and will strive to enrich their quality of life as well as the lives of the volunteers who help provide them with support.  Current plans include working on transportation issues for Herndon residents over the age of 55.  For more information about the Herndon Village Network, please email HerndonVillageNetworkInfo@gmail.com.

 

McLean

  • The McLean Senior Source (MSS) has been busy providing McLean seniors with phone referrals to County and non-County resources on a wide range of issues, including such topics as daily living assistance and transportation options. To reach MSS, call 703-300-1751 or visit the McLean Community Center lobby (1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean) Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (For additional information, please see inset below.)
  • The McLean Village Exchange Planning Committee has been meeting regularly to discuss the structure and composition of its new Coordinating Council, the McLean Village Exchange (MVE).  The MVE, holding its second quarterly meeting this month, consists of representatives from service-oriented McLean organizations and constituent groups, and will recommend solutions and new programs that respond to needs identified by the McLean Senior Source users and other community members.  Courtney Nuzzo,  Administrator of Lewinsville Retirement Residences, has been appointed to lead the MVE.

For more information about Dranesville's Aging in Community activities, please contact Jenny Phipps in the Herndon office of Supervisor Foust at 703-471-5076 or by email at jenny.phipps@fairfaxcounty.gov.

 

McLean Senior Source: 

Staying in Place. Staying Informed. Staying Connected.

 

If you are over 55, or concerned about an older adult, or adult with disabilities, and wondering where to find information, McLean Senior Source (MSS) provides information on resources and services you may not know about from Fairfax County government, faith-based, and other non-profit organizations. Topics cover these areas and more:
  • Community involvement
  • Daily living solutions
  • Education, adult & aging
  • Entertainment, enrichment choices
  • Financial help & management
  • Health & wellness
  • Housing solutions
  • Insurance, health & other
  • Legal & protection
  • Recreational facilities
  • Social connections
  • Transportation & accessibility

Three ways to reach McLean Senior Source (MSS) include:

 

1) Phone: 703-300-1751

2) Email: McLeanSeniorSource@gmail.com

3) Visit: the McLean Community Center lobby during operating hours, Tues, Wed, Thurs from 10 am to 2 pm.

 

MSS, a free, non-emergency, volunteer-managed information source, is supported by the Dranesville District Supervisor, the Fairfax County Health Department Long Term Care program, the McLean Community Center, the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce, Dolley Madison Library, other organizations and engaged volunteers.  Learn more about MSS at www.McLeanSS.weebly.com

 

McLean Senior Source is a program of McLean Community: A Village for All Ages (MCVA).

 

 

RECOGNITIONS
Champions of Character Awards Given 
    

The annual Fairfax County Champions of Character Awards (FCAC) program honors youth, coaches and parents who have demonstrated extraordinary service in the sports community while modeling the basic traits of good character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.  A female athlete, male athlete, coach and parent who exemplify these traits are selected from each Fairfax County Magisterial District.  This year's award winners were recognized at a ceremony with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on October 15. 

 

Dranesville residents receiving 2013 FCAC honors were:

(left to right) Chairman Sharon Bulova, James Thrash (guest speaker and former Washington Redskin), KK Brummett, Jason Volpiccelli, Supervisor John Foust, Lisa Haas and Christopher Leonard, Director of the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.  (Not pictured:  John DiCamillo)

Jason Volpicelli: Male Athlete

Great Falls Little League All Star pitcher, semifinalist in Little League World Series and basketball guard.

KK Brummett: Female Athlete
Top student at Westfield High School and team-elected captain of her softball team.
John DiCamillo: Coach
Coach for Great Falls Lacrosse Association for 5 years and Virginia Lacrosse Club coach since its inception in 2009.

Lisa Haas: Parent

Team mom and Chief Operating Officer McLean Little League Softball, World Series runners-up.

 

For  more information visit the FCAC website at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs/athletics/champofchar.htm

Great Falls Resident Sarah Kirk and Great Falls Trail Blazers Recognized with Elly Doyle Awards 
  
Congratulations to Great Falls Resident, Sarah Kirk, for receiving the 2013 Elly Doyle Park Service Award  for her efforts as founder and president of Turner Farm Events to ensure that equestrian programs at The Turner Farm in Great Falls remain free to the public. In addition, The Great Falls Trail Blazers received the Elly Doyle Special Recognition Award for its leadership and volunteer efforts maintaining, preserving and expanding the extensive trail system in Great Falls . The award recipients were honored at a ceremony held at the Waterford at Fair Oaks on November 22. 
Sarah Kirk receives Elly Doyle Park Service Award.
Great Falls Trail Blazers receive Special Recognition Award.
  
The Elly Doyle Park Service Award was established in 1988 in recognition of Ellamae Doyle's many years of service and accomplishment as a member and chairman of the Fairfax County Park Authority Board.  Awards are given to groups and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to promote the advancement of recreational and educational opportunities or the protection of natural and cultural resources in Fairfax County parks.
Great Falls Resident Camille Speer Takes 1st Place in Peer Promise TIVA Award
  

Camille Speer, Great Falls resident and Langley High School Senior, was awarded the first place Peer Promise Award for high school students at the 2013 TIVA (Television, Internet and Video) awards on November 16 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Ms. Speer won the honors for her film "Art Promotional". The TIVA Peer Awards celebrate local excellence in media. Judges are selected from industry professionals in the Metro DC production community.

  
Herndon Resident David Lavery Wins 2013 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal for Work on Curiosity Rover on Mars
Mr. Lavery Recognized by the Board of Supervisors on November 19
David Lavery receives honorary plaque from Board of Supervisors.
  

Herndon resident, Dave Lavery, was recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on November 19 for winning the 2013 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal in the science and environment category. The awards, known as the "Sammies", are presented every year by the Partnership for Public Service to recognize outstanding government workers and are considered the Oscars of the government world.

 

Mr. Lavery's award recognizes his work in shepherding the development and launch of the Curiosity rover that, since landing last August, is exploring the geology and climate of Mars. The landing involved the largest supersonic parachute ever built.   Curiosity beams photographs back from 154 million miles away. The data it collected after driving over an ancient streambed proved that water existed on the surface of Mars for tens of thousands of years.

 

Mr. Lavery's love of robotics has led him to serve as a long-time mentor for the Herndon High School Robotics team.

Wolf Trap Fire Station Receives 2013 NAIOP Award of Excellence
  

The Wolftrap Fire Station, located at Beulah Road and Leesburg Pike in Vienna, has been recognized with the 2013 National Association of Industrial and Office Parks (NAIOP) Award of Excellence in the Build-to-Suite Institutional Facility, in the under $20 Million category.  This award was announced and presented at the annual NAIOP Awards Ceremony on November 20.  Project managers Toni Ogurcak and Marwan Mahmoud of Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Capital Projects accepted the award at the ceremonies.

 

The Wolftrap Fire Station Project was designed by Hughes Group Architects and constructed by Milestone Construction Services, Inc.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Celebrate Fairfax to Award Community Spirit Scholarships

Applications Accepted through April 1
 

Celebrate Fairfax, Inc.(CFI), producer of the Celebrate Fairfax! Festival, is now accepting applications for the Celebrate Fairfax Community Spirit Scholarship Program. Created in 2011 as part of its mission to "Celebrate  Fairfax County and Its Communities," ten $1,000 college scholarships will be awarded to Fairfax County high school seniors during the 2014 Celebrate Fairfax! Festival.

 

Scholarship recipients will be named from each Fairfax County Supervisory District, and one at-large recipient selected from students living in Fairfax County or Fairfax City. Recipients will be recognized for their community involvement, academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and demonstrated leadership.

 

Information regarding eligibility and criteria may be found along with the online scholarship application at www.celebratefairfax.com/scholarships. The deadline for application submission is April 1. Final selection of awardees will be made by the Celebrate Fairfax, Inc. Board of Directors.

 

For more information or questions regarding the Community Spirit Scholarship Program or the Friends of Celebrate Fairfax, please contact CFI President & CEO Barry Feil by email at Barry.Feil@fairfaxcounty.gov or by phone at 703-324-5315.

Fairfax County Sheriff's Office Announces College Scholarship Opportunity

 

Are you currently enrolled or will you soon be enrolled in a Virginia college or university? Are you pursuing a degree in the field of criminal justice? If you answered "yes" to both of these questions, then you are eligible to apply for a college scholarship from the Virginia Sheriffs' Institute (VSI) Scholarship Program. Scholarships are available to both full-time and part-time students.

 

As part of the application process, Fairfax County Sheriff Stacey Kincaid must submit a letter of recommendation on behalf of the applicant.  To obtain a letter of recommendation, please contact Lieutenant Steve Elbert at shf-pio@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-246-3251.

 

Founded in 1981, the Virginia Sheriff's Institute is a non-profit professional and educational organization. In May 2013, the VSI Scholarship Committee awarded 63 scholarships for a total of more than $30,000. There are $500 scholarships available for full-time students and $250 scholarships available for part-time students. The number and amount of scholarships awarded each year vary depending on the number of eligible students and the amount of money that is raised. 

 

For more information about the VSI Scholarship Program or to download the application, go to http://vasheriffsinstitute.org/scholarship/.

Fairfax County "Informed Consumer" E-Newsletter Now Available

 

The Consumer Affairs Branch of Fairfax County Department of Cable and Consumer Services publishes a quarterly newsletter, The Informed Consumer, to keep consumers abreast of current consumer issues and concerns.   All issues are presented in PDF format.

 

To receive future issues of The Informed Consumer delivered to your email inbox, email: consumer@fairfaxcounty.gov, call 703-222-8435, or visit this Fairfax County government webpage at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer/enewsletter/.

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 the Dranesville District office at 703-356-0551, TTY 711.
If you would like your community announcement included in Dranesville Happenings please send an email to Dranesville@FairfaxCounty.gov.