There have been no complaints or transportation issues with fire and emergency personnel along the stretch of Seminary Road that has undergone the controversial road diet, according to Alexandria Fire Chief Corey Smedley.
“The measures needed for us to safely travel on Seminary Road before, during, and after an emergency call have been put into place,” Smedley told ALXnow. “At this point, we haven’t received any complaints from our drivers or battalion chiefs regarding travel issues. Our priority will always be the safety of the community and the members of the Alexandria Fire Department. When we receive an emergency call, we will do everything within our power to respond and navigate the City no matter the circumstance or conditions.”
The city initially admitted that there were significant traffic delays as the lane reduction was being implemented between N. Quaker Lane and Howard Street, though those delays have since lessened, according to Mayor Justin Wilson. Inova Alexandria Hospital is located on the reconfigured stretch of Seminary and there has been concern that the road diet impacts access for emergency personnel.
Despite the fire department not reporting any issues and Virginia Theological Seminary — a major property owner along Seminary Road — supporting the changes for its pedestrian safety improvements, former Alexandria Mayor Allison Silberberg has joined the chorus of community members who are asking that the roadway be put back the way it was.
She said that the road is an “unnecessary risk to public safety.”
“According to the City’s own data, this portion of Seminary was among the safest streets in Alexandria,” Silberberg said. “There was a legitimate need for additional pedestrian crosswalks, but this could have been done without the road diet.”
“In addition to the incredible traffic jams our residents now experience on Seminary Road and adjoining roads, the overriding concern to all of us should be the safety of those who need to reach our City’s only hospital during emergencies,” she continued. “The construction of raised medians combined with the reduction of travel lanes has created a potentially dangerous situation for our first responders and residents. We all know that during emergencies, minutes and even seconds matter. Thirteen Civic Associations from across the city and the Federation of Civic Associations were correct when they urged the City not to reduce the capacity of a major arterial road by 50%, creating significant traffic delays and unnecessary risk to public safety.”
Recent Stories

Are you seeking a confidential space where you can explore your emotions, overcome challenges, and find inner peace? Look no further than our dedicated psychotherapy service! We understand that life can be overwhelming at times, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, our passion lies in helping individuals like you navigate life’s complexities and find the strength to thrive. Our skilled and compassionate therapist is committed to creating a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly. With our personalized approach, we tailor each session to address your unique needs and empower you to overcome obstacles.
Through evidence-based techniques and a deep understanding of the human mind, our therapist will guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we’re here to provide guidance and practical tools for lasting change.
Time flies when you’re having fun! The T.C. Williams High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion July 21-23, 2023 in Alexandria. All graduates and their adult nears and dears are welcome. Events include a Friday evening icebreaker, Saturday dinner dance, and a Sunday brunch. For more information: tcwilliams73.com, 770.789.3534.