Metro is moving forward with seeking developers for the Braddock Road Metro station‘s kiss-and-ride area.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority released a request for proposals today (Sept. 24) for a developer to construct a “new mixed-use, transit-oriented development.” Metro says its vision for the 3.4-acre property involves new housing, neighborhood-serving retail and other amenities near public transit.
“Braddock Rd is an opportunity to transform underused transit property into a walkable, mixed-use destination that brings more homes and neighborhood-serving amenities close to reliable transit,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “We are looking for a development partner with the creativity, experience, and financial capacity to deliver a project that strengthens the station, supports Alexandria’s growth, and creates long-term value for Metro and the region.”
Metro says an analysis found the property could support about 420,000 square feet of development with up to about 380 residential units and 21,000 square feet of retail.
“Braddock Rd station site has tremendous potential to welcome new residents, strengthen our local economy, and build on the walkable character that makes this community unique,” said Councilman Canek Aguirre, who is also an alternate director for Metro’s board. “We look forward to seeing innovative proposals that deliver benefits for both Alexandria and the region.”
Along with the mixed-use development, the developer would be responsible for making improvements to the station’s bus loop and kiss-and-ride area. To accommodate future development, Metro has proposed replacing the kiss-and-ride with a new plaza and creating short-term pick-up and drop-off parking spaces on Braddock Road and N. West Street adjacent to the station.
During a public hearing held by Metro in April, residents warned of unresolved neighborhood flooding and traffic concerns associated with reconfiguring the Metro-owned property. In a public survey from March 21 to April 30, 44% of respondents indicated support for the project, and 43% opposed.
The mixed-use development would have to go through the city review process.
The Braddock Road proposal is one of numerous joint developments Metro has sought on its properties. One recent example is the mixed-use development underway on part of the West Falls Church Metro property on the Orange Line. Metro says it wants to advance 20 joint development projects by 2032.
