Alexandria is expanding its pedestrian-friendly initiative in Old Town. On March 14, Phase 2 of a pilot walk-only zone for the 200 block of King Street will kick off.
The City’s Department of Transportation & Environmental Services announced the pilot will run through September 30. A Phase 1 holiday season trial ran from November 22, 2024, to January 3, 2025.
This initiative, which the City Council requested in September 2024, aims to boost the appeal of Alexandria’s “Main Street” and address community demand for more public spaces.
In November 2024, the City Council unanimously approved the pilot closure in two phases. The first covered the holiday season, while the second allows for extended community engagement and data collection.
The expansion has sparked concerns among some business owners and employees in the 200 block, who worry about reduced parking and accessibility.
The City encourages residents to stay informed about the project through its website, where it says that it will regularly post updates.
Depending on the outcomes of this extended pilot, the City Council may consider a permanent walk zone ordinance for the 200 block of King Street in fall of this year.
