The Arlington County Board concluded its June 2026 meetings by advancing a proposed ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, approving a major residential redevelopment project, and denying a local historic district designation. These decisions reflect the County's ongoing efforts in environmental sustainability, urban development, and historic preservation.
The Board approved advertising a public hearing for July 2026 to consider prohibiting gas-powered leaf blowers and vacuums. If adopted, a phase-out period would be effective between January 1, 2028, and July 18, 2029. This initiative aims to reduce noise pollution, improve residents' quality of life, and promote sustainable practices by curbing emissions. Public engagement saw nearly 4,000 participants, with many residents supporting the ban, while landscaping businesses expressed concerns about the cost and performance of electric alternatives.
In a significant move for urban development, the Board approved the Alexan Courthouse project at 2000 15th St. N. This redevelopment will replace a largely vacant 12-story office building with a new 19-story residential structure featuring up to 394 units and 269 underground parking spaces. This project aligns with Arlington County's Commercial Market Resiliency Initiative, reducing the Courthouse office vacancy rate by 3.2 percentage points to 28.3% and introducing new housing near transit. The approval includes substantial community benefits, such as affordable housing contributions, public art, stormwater management, green building incentives, and EV parking.
The Board also denied a request for local historic district designation for the Nelly Custis Elementary School/Melwood property at 750 23rd St. S., with a 4-0 vote and one abstention. County Historic Preservation Program staff did not recommend the designation, and the property owner did not support it, despite advocacy from the Aurora Highlands community.
Additionally, the Board extended the validity of the Arva Motel site plan (SP #469) to June 30, 2029. This extension provides the developer more time to market the site for a new owner to commence construction of the approved residential development. The extension also updates several site plan conditions to current standards, including increased contributions to the Tree Canopy Fund and the Underground Utility Fund.