The Alexandria City Council has been considering an expansion of developments eligible for "bonus density."
Currently, a developer can request additional density in their development in exchange for more affordable housing units or a contribution to the Alexandria Housing Trust Fund — if the building is going to be higher than 50 feet.
The proposed provision of Section 7-700 of the Zoning Ordinance would allow bonus density for buildings higher than 45 feet.
While about half- a-story difference may not seem like a lot in regards to unlocking bonus density allowance, the change could alter Alexandria's skyline in many neighborhoods. Developments would not be able to be increased more than 25 feet above the previously permitted height, so an area with 45-foot height allowances could result in buildings, including bonus density, as high as 70-feet tall.
At a meeting this spring, the City's Office of Housing released a map showing where there's potential for developers to take advantage of this bonus density allowance. Red is where this is not (and will not be) allowed; green is where bonus density is currently allowed with a special permit, and green striped is where the 45-foot height requirement could make bonus density a possibility.
However, city officials have cautioned that not all developments in the allowance areas could scale up just because the developer wants the bonus density. Factors such as the character of the neighborhood and surrounding buildings, federal rules and zoning may stop the development of some taller buildings.
The height bonuses would not be permitted for single family, two-family, or townhouse dwellings. Height districts will not change, for example along Washington Street in Old Town and Old Town North.
The Planning Commission will be looking at the issue at its June 23 meeting, followed by a City Council hearing in early July. For more information, go to alexandriava.gov/zoning/bonus-height.
