Good Thursday morning, Alexandria!
🌤 Today’s weather: Clear throughout the day. High of 47 and low of 35.
🌤 Tomorrow: Clear throughout the day. High of 54 and low of 35. Sunrise at 7:28 am and sunset at 4:56 pm.
🚨 You need to know
The major highways around Alexandria have gotten a notable uptick in express lanes this year, and the Washington Post reported that trend is likely to continue next year.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) says 22.5 miles of express lanes were added to the region in 2022, with over 80 miles of tolled lanes by the end of the year. The express lanes allow carpooling vehicles to ride for free, while solo drivers have the option to pay.
The next big extension will be 10 miles of new express lanes down I-95 to Fredericksburg. That was set to launch earlier this year, but has been delayed to “before the end of 2023” due to a contract dispute.
The biggest impact for Alexandria could be on the Wilson Bridge: VDOT is wrapping up a study to consider adding 11 miles of toll lanes along I-495 leading up to the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge. The change would add one or two lanes in each direction within the existing right of way. Options for the changes to the Beltway are expected to be unveiled sometime mid-2023, the Washington Post reported.
📈 Wednesday’s most read
The following are the most-read ALXnow articles for Dec 28, 2022.
- Notes: Alexandria resident killed in D.C. shooting (2664 views)
- Alexandria hosting Virginia Black History Month Gala in February (1129 views)
- Eisenhower Avenue and South Pickett Street could be getting protected bike lanes (654 views)
- Goodies Frozen Custard closes for season, owner doubles down on not raising prices (499 views)
🗞 Other local coverage
- Women’s Hormone Health Workshop Invites Women of All Ages on January 12th
Zebra (Wednesday @ 11:47 pm)
- Bye-Bye Holiday Trees, Hello 2023!
Zebra (Wednesday @ 8:09 pm)
- New Alexandria Police Officers, Deputy Sheriffs Graduate from Criminal Justice Academy
Zebra (Wednesday @ 6:06 pm)
- 31 Law Enforcement Officers In Alexandria Graduate From Academy
Patch (Wednesday @ 2:54 pm)
- New Luxury Condo Units In Alexandria Offer Indoor, Outdoor Fitness
Patch (Wednesday @ 1:25 pm)
- Christmas Eve Homicide In Northwest DC Kills Alexandria Man
Patch (Wednesday @ 10:00 am)
🐦 Tweets of note
Pass the potatoes–not the flu. Stay home and get tested when you're sick, wash your hands, and get vaccinated. pic.twitter.com/aa7mSfG1Wj
— AlexandriaVAGov (@AlexandriaVAGov) December 27, 2022
Attn: Alexandrians. The #ALX Commission for Women is hosting an event on 1/23 to raise awareness of human trafficking. Details below, hope to see you there! #AlexandriaVA @AlexandriaVAGov pic.twitter.com/xrhqq86Qna
— Emily Eckert (@emilyanneck) December 27, 2022
Metro weeknight service adjustments through Dec. 30; Holiday travel worse than in years past – https://t.co/uOHyMNOb0T pic.twitter.com/1BHF9YROdZ
— NVTC (@NoVaTransit) December 28, 2022
📅 Upcoming events
Here is what’s going on today in Alexandria, from our event calendar.
- No events today. Have one to promote? Submit it to the calendar.
Recent Stories

Are you ready for a family frolic in front of the lens? Look no further! Our Mini Photo Sessions are here, and they’re filled with laughter, wagging tails, and unforgettable moments.
What to Expect:
• Professional Portraits: Bring your furry friends or the whole family for a portrait experience like no other. We promise to capture the most charming moments!

This week, we are thrilled to welcome Jane Lowery to our women’s therapy practice. Jane specializes in grief+loss therapy and she’s forming a support group for young adults who have lost a parent.
Grief work is personal for Jane. She’s a host with The Dinner Party, a national non-profit reducing the isolation & stigma for grieving 20 & 30-something’s with live and virtual sit-down dinners.
Jane is a graduate of Northwestern University’s Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Prior to becoming a therapist, she worked for over 10 years in technology philanthropy. Jane obtained her bachelor’s in American Studies from George Washington University.
Made in Alexandria Fall Makers’ Market
The Made in ALX Fall Makers’ Market at Port City Brewing Co. in Alexandria is set for Sunday, Sept. 24!
This is the fall’s most fun sip-and-shop, featuring craft beer from the award-winning Port City Brewing Co. along with food,
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.