On This Day in Alexandria History — “On October 27, 1748 a group of citizens petitioned the Virginia House of Burgesses ‘That a town may be established at Hunting Creek’s Warehouse on Potowmack River.’ The legislature approved the request of the group, who soon became known as the town founders of Alexandria, and the new town held its first land auctions for property lots on July 14, 1749. One condition of the auction was that a structure had to be built on the property within two years of purchase.” [Historic Alexandria]
City Council Meets Tonight — City Council will meet at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Drive, Room 1305). Items of interest include appointment of an independent policing auditor and updates on the Duke Street Land Use Plan, Community Lodgings Inc.’s Elbert Avenue Housing Project, automated license plate readers and detention center study. [City of Alexandria]
Leaf Blower Demonstration Today Ahead of New Ordinance — “To prepare for the upcoming ordinance banning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in the city, the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services invites you to an electric leaf blower demonstration on Tuesday, October 27 from 2-6 p.m. at Ben Brenman Park near Somervelle Street and Deer Run Court … The ordinance banning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers goes into effect on November 17, 2026, following an 18-month phase-out period since its adoption by City Council in May 2025.” [Alexandria T&ES]
Amtrak Completes Infrastructure Work That Impacted Virginia Service — “Following an intensive nine-day construction period, Amtrak has completed its ‘Pause for Progress’ infrastructure improvements on time in the First Street Tunnel just south of Washington Union Station. Train operations resumed today ahead of the busy holiday travel season … The project required temporary service changes for trains traveling south of Washington from Oct. 16-26.” [Amtrak]
New Dean of Students at ACPS — “Vondrenna Douglas-Martino has been promoted to dean of students at Alexandria City High School (ACHS), effective Nov. 4, 2026. In this role, she will provide administrative leadership and support in managing student conduct and behavior while fostering a positive, supportive school culture that promotes student growth, accountability and development.” [Alexandria City Public Schools]
Special Voting Stickers for Halloween — “In a move widely described as ‘completely on brand,’ the City of Alexandria’s Office of Elections and Voter Registration is releasing Limited Edition Halloween-Themed I Voted stickers ™️, available all week for early voters! Go to alexandriava.gov/Elections to see where you can get one today!” [City of Alexandria/Bluesky]
Del Ray’s Effort to Save Landmark Caboose — “Built in 1919, the railcar sits beside Mount Vernon Community School on Commonwealth Avenue. Now, rust, rotten railroad ties, and weather damage threaten its future. Community leaders have launched a major campaign to save it. The restoration will cost over $100,000.” [The Zebra]
Affordable Homeownership Unit in Alexandria — “The City of Alexandria Office of Housing continues to market a resale-restricted condominium unit at 4 South Van Dorn Street, Unit 603, Alexandria, VA 22304. The one bedroom/one bath, 750 square feet, unit is listed at a reduced price of $193,896 and is part of West End Condominiums. This unit includes a private balcony, granite countertops, and a spacious dining area. Amenities include swimming pool, laundry facilities, community center, fitness center and more.” [Alexandria Office of Housing]
New Scrutiny for License Plate Readers — “A Virginia prosecutor’s recent decision not to charge a police officer for sharing license plate reader data with federal authorities without authorization could spur reform efforts in the commonwealth. Automated license plate readers, commonly used to identify vehicles and investigate crimes, have drawn criticism over privacy concerns and alleged misuse, sparked disagreement over how they’re used by authorities, and forced local governments to reconsider contracts.” [Virginia Mercury]
It’s Tuesday — Sunny with a high near 69 and a light northeast wind around 3 to 6 mph. Tuesday night will be partly cloudy, with a low around 50 and a light east wind. [NWS]
There’s more local news to explore. Check out WSHnow, with stories from around the region.
