News

George Mason University is hosting a Leadership Dialogue webinar on Friday (May 9) from noon to 1 p.m., focusing on how federal administration changes affect state and local government.

Former Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson will join the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative (RELI) for the discussion.


News

The developer behind plans to build a five-story, 142-space automated parking garage and a 16-unit mixed-use apartment building with ground floor retail in Old Town is asking the city for an extension.

Galena Capital Partners says that its plans to build the project were delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a legal dispute that was settled with a neighbor, new staffing in the city and more. The project was approved in 2022, and the development special use permit approvals expire in July.


Sponsored

Only four remain: Inside Brooks Estate’s luxury townhomes in Old Town Alexandria

One private-elevator residence remains, with special low-interest-rate financing and builder-paid closing costs available.

By Brett Rice

Only four residences remain at Brooks Estate, a collection of 13 luxury townhomes in Old Town Alexandria, just two-and-a-half blocks from King Street–Old Town Metro. The homes are complete and available for immediate purchase—and only one remaining residence includes a private elevator.

For buyers considering a move, the builder is offering special incentives, including low-interest-rate financing and builder-paid closing costs, subject to eligibility and offer terms. It is an opportunity to purchase a fully appointed new home with a two-car garage, a rooftop terrace and the convenience of Old Town living.

Brooks Estate’s remaining residences range from approximately 2,600 to 2,900 square feet across four spacious levels. Each is designed for four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms, with home-office and open-loft options that accommodate different ways of living. Pricing now starts at $2,197,500, with all existing upgrades and options included in the listed price.

At Brooks Estate, luxury comes standard. Buyers can see the finishes, experience the spaces and understand what is included before making their decision.

Four distinctive residences. One final elevator home.

The remaining collection includes The Kendall at 109 N West Street, offered at $2,197,500; The Claire at 107 N West Street, offered at $2,400,000; The Masonic View at 1330 Cameron Street, offered at $2,435,000; and The Henry at 121 N West Street, offered at $2,735,000.

The Henry is the final available residence with a private elevator and also features a rear yard. The Claire serves as the furnished model home and is itself available for purchase.

All four homes include two-car garages and private rooftop terraces—features that bring everyday convenience and outdoor space to a historic urban setting. Buyers can explore the floor plans and finishes at BrooksEstateOT.com or arrange a personal walkthrough with Brett Rice of RE/MAX Executives.

Traditional architecture, thoughtfully finished interiors

Brooks Estate blends modern comfort with architectural details that complement Old Town Alexandria. Graceful arches connect living spaces, while crown moldings, custom millwork and carefully selected materials give the interiors a distinctive character.

Custom cabinetry, polished quartz surfaces and professional-series Thermador appliances create chef-inspired kitchens made for quiet mornings and lively gatherings. Custom-built rift- and quarter-sawn white oak range hoods and island surrounds add warmth and craftsmanship.

The hardwood flooring, supplied and installed by Arlandria Floors in Del Ray, is 5-inch-wide European white oak, sanded and finished on site. Nine- and ten-foot ceilings and generous windows enhance the sense of light and space.

Spa-inspired baths feature tiled walk-in showers, soaking tubs in select bathrooms and Wi-Fi-controlled heated floors in the primary bath.

Smart features that make daily life easier

Technology is thoughtfully integrated throughout the homes, including Wi-Fi-connected Lutron Caséta lighting controls, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth entry locks and high-efficiency HVAC systems with temperature sensors and smart thermostats.

The two-car garages are spray-foam insulated and temperature controlled, with custom-painted floors, EV charging readiness and Wi-Fi-controlled garage door openers with cameras.

(more…)


Opinion

In a letter to the editor, Alexandria resident Lawrence Stanley voices outrage over the “shameful reality” of neglected public restrooms at Brenman Park.

Stanley describes unsanitary conditions, including feces-stained toilets and abandoned clothing, persisting over time, even with a satellite police station operating from the same facility. He calls for accountability from city leadership to restore the park’s restrooms to a dignified and usable state for the families, seniors, and community members who rely on this public space.


News

The Alexandria Police Department will hold a wreath-laying ceremony on Wednesday (May 7) to pay tribute to officers who have died while serving their community.

The event, part of the city’s Police Week observance, starts at 1 p.m. at the Alexandria Police Fallen Officers Memorial outside the department’s headquarters (3600 Wheeler Ave.).


Event

High school students from across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region are invited to participate in Dialogue for Democracy at George Mason University!

Hosted by the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, this event offers high school students an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about democracy, civic engagement, and the importance of understanding different perspectives.


News

A proposal for a new French bakery in Old Town will be submitted to the Board of Architectural Review on Wednesday (May 7).

Arlington-based Eclairons Pastry and Coffee House wants to open at the old Firehook Bakery at 430 S. Washington Street. The location was Shuman’s Bakery for more than 30 years before Firehook Bakery took over in 2004.


Around Town

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News

Alexandria is asking residents their thoughts on proposed changes to Edsall Road and Yoakum Parkway. The city wants to make these areas safer and easier to navigate for everyone.

The Department of Transportation & Environmental Services has developed some initial designs based on community input and traffic data. Last fall, over 100 residents shared their concerns about speeding, a lack of bike lanes, and tricky pedestrian crossings.


News

Alexandria City Council members highlighted economic uncertainty and federal impacts as key challenges facing the city during a Chamber of Commerce breakfast Tuesday (May 6). The sold-out event at National Industries for the Blind allowed business leaders to hear directly from city leadership about priorities and upcoming initiatives.

Mayor Alyia Gaskins set the tone by describing the current climate of economic uncertainty facing Alexandria, particularly related to federal government changes.


News

Good Tuesday morning, Alexandria!

⛈️ Today’s weather: Scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 76 degrees. Light south wind becoming southwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. The chance of precipitation is 30%. Isolated showers before 8 p.m., then isolated showers after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58 degrees. Light and variable wind. The chance of precipitation is 20%.