Alexandria Seeks Public Input on Updated Historic District Design Guidelines
Proposed updates address EV chargers, HVAC equipment, exterior lighting, roof decks, security features and other increasingly common property improvements.
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Property owners, residents and businesses in Alexandria’s two historic districts will have an opportunity next month to weigh in on proposed updates to the city’s architectural design guidelines.
The Board of Architectural Review Design Guidelines Committee will hold a community meeting Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Nannie J. Lee Memorial Recreation Center, 1108 Jefferson St.
The meeting will focus on interim drafts of updated Design Guideline chapters for the Old and Historic Alexandria and Parker-Gray districts. The guidelines help property owners understand what the Board of Architectural Review considers when reviewing proposed exterior changes within the districts.
The proposed updates address several modern additions and property improvements that can present challenges in historic settings, including:
- Utility meters and electric vehicle chargers
- Mechanical equipment, HVAC systems and vents
- Exterior lighting
- Security features
- Infrastructure in the public right-of-way
- Small-cell facilities and antennas
- Accessory structures
- Building accessories
- Planters
- Porches and porticos
- Decks, roof decks and balconies
Committee members will explain the background and scope of the Design Guidelines update, present the interim drafts and discuss the timeline for a public comment period and eventual consideration by the Board of Architectural Review.
The meeting is open to the public, and testimony and comments will be accepted during a public forum. Residents who own property in either historic district—or who anticipate making exterior improvements—may want to attend to learn how the proposed guidance could affect future projects.
For more information, contact the Alexandria Department of Planning & Zoning at 703-746-4666.
Residents who require disability accommodations may contact [email protected] or 703-746-3831, or use Virginia Relay 711. Free interpretation and translation services are also available by emailing [email protected] or calling 703-746-3960.
