By Christine Pryately, Alexandria Beautification Commission
Alexandria, VA – For decades, the City of Alexandria has welcomed visitors with signage along major roadways entering the city. The Alexandria Beautification Commission (ABC) endeavored to reinvigorate this “Gateway” program by proposing new signs and plantings at 13 entrances into the city.
Each Gateway contains a new sign depicting a clipper ship with the city founding in 1749. New plantings feature Virginia native plants for their beauty, resilience, and support of native pollinators. Each Gateway is planted to reflect the needs of the particular site, which are often very challenging.
Two Gateways will be enhanced with plantings this fall: North Quaker Lane and North Beauregard Street. They will contain Virginia native juniper, amsonia, catmint, and fothergilla. This effort was led by former ABC member, Richard Dorrier, and continues through the support of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) and the ABC.
