ARLINGTON, VA — The Arlington County Board wrapped up its July meetings by approving a series of major land use, transportation, environmental and capital investment decisions that will shape Arlington for years to come.
Among the board's most significant actions were approval of two major mixed-use redevelopment projects in Rosslyn, adoption of a new $4.9 billion Capital Improvement Plan, a future ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, and placing two bond referenda before voters this November.
The board approved two large mixed-use redevelopment projects that together will add more than 1,400 new housing units while replacing aging office buildings with new residential, retail and public spaces.
The approvals are part of Arlington's long-term strategy to increase housing and modernize commercial corridors while expanding public amenities in Rosslyn.
Board members also adopted Arlington's Fiscal Year 2027-2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), authorizing approximately $4.9 billion in investments over the next decade.
County officials said the plan prioritizes maintaining existing infrastructure while funding transportation, schools, parks, public safety facilities and other capital projects needed to serve Arlington's growing population.
The board voted to prohibit the commercial use of gas-powered leaf blowers beginning in 2029.
County officials said the change is intended to reduce noise and air pollution while giving landscaping companies several years to transition to electric equipment before the ordinance takes effect.
"The County Board unanimously voted for a future where Arlington families can enjoy their backyards, neighbors can chat, children can play outside, employees can work in peace, and birdsong can once again be heard — instead of the roar of gas-powered leaf blowers," said Margaret McKelvey, an Arlington resident and Quiet Clean Virginia Foundation board member. "These regulations are an investment in public health, quality of life, and the shared spaces that unite and strengthen communities."
The board also approved two bond referenda that Arlington voters will consider in the November general election.
If approved by voters, the bonds would provide funding for future capital projects identified in the county's long-range infrastructure plan.
The County Board also acted on numerous additional items during its regular and recessed July meetings, including transportation, planning, housing and administrative matters outlined in the county's monthly wrap-up.
County officials said the July meetings concluded a busy legislative session before the board's summer recess.
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