This essay is part of a series in which we’ve asked Alexandrians to envision our region in 2050.
Learn more about the series and read more essays on the Alexandria 2050 project page here.
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Bill Rossello
The decisions we make now will define what Alexandria will look like in 2050. Will we be a vibrant city that retains its small-town feel, or will we be a city that is a carbon copy of highly urbanized areas with little remaining character, like many non-descript cities in the New York metropolitan area struggling with even higher poverty rates than our own?
Will we continue to approve over-development across our city in a never-ending pursuit for more tax dollars that will never cover the cost of resulting increases in school enrollment, not to mention all the other city services. Or will we take the time to have a community conversation about up-zoning and how much development is appropriate for a city of just 15 square miles?
Will we remain a welcoming, forward-looking, and diverse community, or will we prioritize tax revenue over quality of life and inclusion for all residents? Will we continue to lag behind Arlington, DC and even Prince Georges County in offering new attractions and experiences that draw people to spend money at local businesses? Or will we continue to focus development mostly on high-rise residential construction?
These are some of the fundamental decisions we as a community will make that will shape the Alexandria of 2050.
I imagine an Alexandria in 2050 that has chosen a path to balance density with open space and has dedicated tax dollars to make that a reality. That will require creativity. For example, NOVA Park at Cameron Run could become a year-round sports and entertainment destination with the sports fields, music venues, and dining options. The same opportunities exist at the vacant NRG power plant site in North Old Town. Adjacent to the city’s new Arts District, some land could be used to create a concert amphitheater to attract residents and visitors to Old Town.
I envision a city with a truly connected traffic network, ubiquitous EV charging infrastructure, and smart technology to move automobiles through the city, rather than encouraging gridlock by reducing travel lanes. I imagine a city with a more easily accessible bus and rail network and a system of bike trails that provide real safety and connectivity for cyclists. I envision a more bustling waterfront with frequent water taxis providing additional access to and from our city.
I envision a city that truly has lived up to its Eco City pledge by preserving its last woodland forests and increasing its tree canopy to 40%, and that showcases a sparkling Potomac River free from sewage dumped in it for decades. I envision a city that has sufficiently invested in its infrastructure so that no resident ever has to experience flooding in their homes and yards again.
I envision a city that attracts small and large businesses that add jobs and enrich the unique character of our community. I envision a city that has been a careful steward of our taxpayers’ assets, and has wisely allocated and monitored our Capital Improvement Program budget. I envision a city that has protected its affordable housing for our residents. I envision a city where our schools have the facilities and equipment to provide a first-class education to all our students in the digital age. I envision a city that has preserved and enhanced its rich history for future generations to learn about the important role Alexandria played in the founding of our country.
I believe these goals are possible if our community takes advantage of the opportunities we have in 2021 to chart our future to be a livable, dynamic, and sought-after place to live, work and visit in 2050.
Bill Rosello is running for city council in 2021.
