ROSSLYN, Va. — Arlington has unveiled a Rosslyn Sector Plan that outlines a long-term vision for the business and residential communities that are considered the county’s downtown.
Known as “Realize Rosslyn,” the plan would serve as a guide for future development in Rosslyn over the next several decades.
“Rosslyn’s location has shaped the place it has become,” says Arlington planner Anthony Fusarelli, Jr. “It is connected to Washington, D.C. with three bridges, and it’s right across the river from Georgetown.”
The plan has several improvements around transportation.
On Metro, the plan calls for opening up the area around the station’s entrance and building mixed-use retail shopping, dining and living options for residents.
“Instead of concrete walls, really opening it up, having it feel as an integral part of a public street, a pedestrian and bicyclist street through this part of Rosslyn,” says Fusarelli.
Bicyclists will also see their situation improve with better access within Arlington.
“This plan envisions the addition of protected bicycle lanes or cycle tracks on Lynn Street, Ft. Myer Drive, portions of Nash Street and Wilson Boulevard,” Fusarelli says.
Wider sidewalks and an emphasis on complete streets are also features of the long-term vision. “Complete streets” refers to a concept of building and developing with all users of the road in mind — including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit and vehicles.
The Arlington County Board will consider the Rosslyn Sector Plan at a public hearing later this month.
