News

Morning Notes for October 23, 2026

Boats docked at the Old Town waterfront (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

Hydrofoil Ferry Talks Revived — “There have long been talks about running ferries on the Potomac and Anacostia, but concerns like costs and feasibility previously waylaid plans … Officials last week presented an early feasibility study envisioning a commuter service using hydrofoil ferries,” with Old Town Alexandria among the potential stops. [Axios DC]

Ground Breaks on Second Heritage Building — “Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners broke ground Tuesday on the second apartment building at The Heritage at Old Town, a 288-unit project at 535 S. Alfred St. that the developer says will be finished in 2029.” Construction on the project’s first building, which will deliver 310 apartments, began in June 2025. [Alexandria Brief]

Maintenance to Affect Duke and King Streets — “Two upcoming maintenance projects beginning the week of October 26 near the railroad tracks along Duke Street and King Street are expected to result in limited traffic impacts to the area. Bridge maintenance work will take place on the deck of the Duke Street bridge over the CSX railroad tracks beginning the week of October 26th.” Virginia Railway Express is also planning track maintenance starting Oct. 28. [City of Alexandria]

State Legislators Consider Building Reforms — “Every three years, Virginia updates its building code, requirements for new construction that account for safety standards and energy efficiency. As the state readies for its next update cycle in 2027, some lawmakers are flagging a series of reforms they argue can help increase housing supply and address affordability issues.” [Virginia Mercury]

Local Man Sentenced for Drug Ring — “Three more men have been sentenced in connection with a drug and prostitution ring operated out of a hotel in Dumfries. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, two men were sentenced on Wednesday in connection with the Red Carpet Inn’s third-floor drug den,” while a third man from Alexandria was sentenced to over 15 years in prison on Sept. 18. [Patch]

Alexandria Business Leaders Recognized — “The Washington Business Journal released its annual ‘Power’ list Tuesday, a list of the region’s most influential business leader with a twist this year, increasing the number from its usual 100 to a list of 250 in honor of the sesquicentennial. Alexandria is well represented. Here’s a look at the leaders who work in Alexandria or have strong ties to the city.” [Alexandria Living Magazine]

It’s Friday — Sunny with a high near 63 and northeast winds around 6 to 8 mph. Friday night will be clear, with a low around 40 and a light northeast wind. [NWS]

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