SPEAK OUT: Is Falls Church Ready for Two New Mixed-Use Developments?

In a meeting City Council stretched out over four hours with breaks and amendments to items on the agenda, they approved two special exceptions for projects that will bring two new supermarkets and hundreds of apartments to Falls Church. Adding to the skyline, two taller than normal buildings.

Read more about the Harris Teeter project here:

Plans to Bring a Harris Teeter to Falls Church Moving Along

Harris Teeter Project Back on Falls Church Council Agenda

Harris Teeter Plans Detailed at Joint Meeting

Harris Teeter: Falls Church Residents Chime in on Proposal

Council not only approved the special exception clearing the way for Rushmark Properties LLC’s mixed-use development that will include a Harris Teeter, they also approved a special exception for the “Reserve at Tinner Hill” mixed-use development that will also bring apartments and a Fresh Grocer supermarket. Both projects still have to go through a planning phase before any solid construction dates can be given.

With these two projects approved to proceed forward, the face of the City of Falls Church will change.

City Manager Wyatt Shields said the Reserve at Tinner Hill project, located on 2.2 acres of land at 540 and 580 S. Washington St., would bring 224 apartments, retail space and a supermarket. Councilman Ira Kaylin said the grocery store is a key component to the project.

“This project should serve as a catalyst for the adjacent businesses,” he said during the meeting.

Approving the much discussed Harris Teeter project didn’t go so smooth as council had to hammer out issues with a driving isle. It was originally planned to be 100 feet away from the homes along Annandale Road in the city but new developments moved that line to 15 feet away from the homes. Residents at the meeting were upset about the changes stating the volume of traffic that will be forced through their community.

Council gave Patrick Kearney of Rushmark Properties 30 days to work out new possible traffic changes with Harris Teeter officials before the project heads into the planning phase. Kearney is expected to deliver a written report of modifications between Rushmark and Harris Teeter at the end of the 30 days.

With both projects approved, what are your concerns and issues with them and how do you feel about the changing face of the City of Falls Church? Let us know if the comments section below.