Earlier today, the Alexandria Zoning Commission voted to oppose the proposed office overlay district for the 2400th block of Jackson Street. Their opposition will be passed along as a recommendation to the City Council, who will vote on the proposal in January.
The meeting was attended by more than sixty people, over half of whom (37) were opposed to the office overlay proposal. Eight people, including four property owners, showed up to express support for an office overlay district.
A few years ago, the City Council approved an office overlay for another portion of Jackson Street, between Bolton Avenue and Chester Street. The designation allows for residential properties to be converted and used for a select group of businesses, primarily professional offices and galleries.
The decision to implement the office overlay designation in this area has led to tangible results: A slew of homes, including at least four “mansions,” have been renovated and brought back into commerce. At least one historic home has actually been moved into the district. And despite what some may believe, property values have increased.
