Alexandria could open up new zoning options in the city for “continuum of care” facilities that would offer local seniors a new option to age in place.
While elder care homes, group homes for the elderly, nursing homes and hospice care are all included in sections in the zoning code, staff said in a report that there’s no definition for senior facilities that offer a “range of care options from independent living to assisted living, with or without memory care services, within one facility.”
Under the current language, staff said there were vagaries about how existing development standards — such as setbacks, open space, and density — would apply to a facility like this, which eludes traditional residential, commercial and mixed-use zoning classifications.
The new continuum of care amendment is scheduled for review at tomorrow’s (Saturday) City Council meeting.
The new definition classifies continuum of care facilities as domiciliary use and/or care for four or more aged, infirm, or disabled adults. The definition also allows for a range of independence, from housing with kitchen facilities to assisted living with memory care, all located on one lot.
The move is part of an effort by the city to supply adequate housing for its senior citizens. According to a staff report:
The demand for senior housing in Alexandria is increasing as the population ages. Analyses of the American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year 2015 Estimates show that the City’s population aged 65 and older increased from 9.2% in 2010 to 9.8% in 2015. While the City’s senior population is growing at a slower rate than in other areas of the country, this age group is expected to continue to grow in Alexandria over the next twenty years as the “baby boomer” generation enters this age group in greater numbers and Alexandria continues to be a desirable location for retirement and aging in place.
Approval of the new zoning options won’t mark the end of changes for continuum of care facilities. According to the staff report, the Affordable Housing Work Group is currently assessing ways to create more affordable senior housing options via developer contributions and other means.
Photo via Susan Jane Golding/Flickr
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ATC tutors work with one child in kindergarten, first, or second grade in Alexandria public schools who need extra help with reading. Tutors meet with their Book Buddy 1-2 times each week for 30 minutes October-May at school, during school hours. Many struggling readers only receive one-on-one instruction through this program, and it makes all the difference. Last year, ATC served 195 children, of whom 82% ended the year reading on grade level and 96% made substantial reading gains. But the need is great, and we are still seeing learning lags from the pandemic.
This year, ATC plans to significantly increase the size of the program to reach over 250 students and to serve every elementary school in Alexandria. This is very exciting news, but we will only succeed if we can recruit more tutors. ATC trains you, matches you with a child, and provides ongoing lesson materials and support.
If you have been thinking about buying your first home or haven’t owned one in the last three years, THIS IS FOR YOU!
In the DMV area, it can be difficult to save the downpayment necessary for you to get into your own home. We have a solution. The Funder’s Summit!
We have assembled a summit with different municipalities to tell you how to access their funds for your home purchase.
Family Fun Fall Fest
Mark your calendars and join us for the Family Fun Fall Fest on Saturday, October 7, 2023, from 11am – 2pm!
This FREE in-person event will be held at the Shoppes at Foxchase, located at 4641 Duke St, Alexandria, VA
2023 Alexandria Fall Festival
Food trucks, bounce houses, pony rides, magic shows and more at the 2023 Alexandria Fall Festival, an Alexandria Living event presented by The Patterson Group. Join us at River Farm on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
