For Immediate Release: April 21, 2015

At its regular public hearing on April 18, City Council voted 5-1 to approve the redevelopment of the Robinson Terminal South warehouse into a mixed-use development including up to 96 townhouses and condominiums as well as 11,500 square feet of retail space.  The project is an early step in the long-term revitalization of Alexandria’s Waterfront, which will include new parks and open space, civic facilities, utility improvements, and flood mitigation infrastructure.

“This is yet another exciting milestone on the path to an enhanced Waterfront that provides benefits to our entire community,” said Mayor William D. Euille.

City Council’s approval followed a unanimous recommendation by the Planning Commission on April 9, and an evaluation by City staff of the costs and impacts of trucking versus barging at this particular site.  The approved plan requires developer EYA to use barges, rather than trucks, to remove the fill material required to raise the site above the floodplain and the excavation material required to construct a below-grade parking garage – the equivalent of approximately 7,000 truckloads.  Demolition debris and other construction materials – less than 90% of all material -- will be transported by truck. EYA has agreed to closely monitor the remaining truck operations to reduce noise, traffic impacts, and soil erosion.  This barge-truck hybrid arrangement is consistent with the consensus of the Ad Hoc Monitoring Group, which City Council appointed in 2014 to proactively address the construction impacts of waterfront redevelopment.

“We appreciate all the community input we received on this issue, the diligent work of the Ad Hoc Monitoring Group on Waterfront Construction and City staff, and EYA’s cooperation,” said Euille.  “We’re pleased that City Council could approve a responsive and responsible plan for this important project to enhance Alexandria’s Waterfront.”

The approved plan incorporates other required contributions by EYA, including preservation and restoration of a historic structure, expansion of public parks and facilities, enhanced streetscapes, improved public access to the Potomac River and maritime facilities, incorporation of public art, and compliance with the City’s Green Building Policy.  These contributions will exceed $5 million, including a contribution of nearly $1 million for affordable housing and an annual contribution of $75,000 for pier and dock maintenance.  The barging requirement is estimated to cost EYA approximately $1.6 million more than trucking.  In response to concerns from nearby residents, City Council also approved neighborhood parking protections.

For media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.