News

A rapturous applause followed after a James K. Polk Elementary School teacher was officially named the Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year.

In front of an assembly of third graders, teacher Sharon Phox was presented the honor by Lisa Coons, Virginia’s superintendent for public instruction, as well as Alexandria City Public Schools leadership and her family.


Around Town

Alexandria is bracing for a vibrant, emerald-tinged weekend as St. Patrick’s Day approaches. Celebrations kick off Friday, March 14, and continue through the traditional holiday on Monday, March 17, 2025. From traditional Irish pubs to quirky cat cafes, the city offers diverse festivities to suit every reveler.

Pubs at the Heart of the Celebration


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…)


News

A plan to convert a former motel on N. Washington Street into a multifamily building and a townhouse is heading to the Planning Commission early next month.

Maryland-based PT Blooms is asking the city to approve plans to redevelop the property at 802 and 808 N. Washington Street into The Whitley — Phase 2, a 48-unit building with one-to-three bedroom condos.  That’s the former Old Towne Motel property, which has been closed for years.


News

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has released its 2023 Communicable Disease Report, providing a comprehensive snapshot of reportable diseases investigated in the calendar year 2023. This marks the first such report since 2019, as the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent mpox outbreak demanded the department's full attention.

The report reveals that AHD investigated 542 cases of communicable disease in 2023, excluding COVID-19, tuberculosis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This represents an 11% increase from 487 cases in 2022.


Event

Curious about strength training but not sure where to start? Or perhaps you're looking for a more efficient alternative to traditional gyms?

Imperium Strength & Longevity invites the Alexandria community to an Open House on Sunday, November 1, from 11 AM to 2 PM.


News

Alexandria’s City Hall and Market Square (301 King Street) are on track for renovation, and the city government wants to loosen zoning restrictions around the project.

At its public hearing on Saturday (March 15), the City Council will discuss a round of changes to Alexandria’s zoning ordinance that would “increase regulatory flexibility” for the City Hall renovation project, according to a staff memo.


News

Alexandria is kicking off several spring initiatives to spruce up the city as warmer weather arrives.

The City announced in a Thursday release that it will be conducting several beautification efforts around town.


News

Good Wednesday morning, Alexandria!

☀️ Today's weather: Mostly sunny, with a high near 65. North wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east in the afternoon. Tonight - Increasing clouds, with a low around 42. East wind 5 to 8 mph.


News

Alexandria City Council voted to maintain the current real property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year, rejecting proposals to advertise a higher maximum rate during Tuesday's legislative meeting.

Council members cited economic uncertainty and potential impacts on federal workers living in Alexandria as key factors in their decision to keep the tax rate flat at $1.13 per $100 of assessed value.


News

A special use permit to allow for the operation of a new garden center in Del Ray is heading to City Council this Saturday (March 15).

Jay Portlance, owner of Del Ray Hardware (2003 Mount Vernon Avenue), wants to soon open the Del Ray Farmhouse Market and Garden right across the street at 1913 Mount Vernon Avenue.