Outdoor Market At Alexandria Waterfront Proposed

The Alexandria Planning Commission unanimously voted on Feb .5 to approve a seasonal outdoor food and crafts market in front of the Torpedo Factory Art Center. The waterfront market is proposed by Alexandria Restaurant Partners Waterfront, LLC, which owns the nearby Vola's Dockside Grill. The proposal was approved by Alexandria City Council on Feb. 23.

The 1,746-square-foot market run by Vola's would include an Airstream trailer serving tacos, beer and non-alcoholic drinks. There would also be picnic tables for 90 people and working space for up to five artists, according to a city staff report. Proposed hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. The market operator would continue to allow the Torpedo Factory, city and community groups to rent out the space for special events.

Staff worked with the applicant to amend the original layout as to not impede pedestrian flow and access to the Torpedo Factory. The structures can be no more than 10 feet in height, and the market must maintain a 13-foot distance from the Torpedo Factory's north entrance.

City staff recommended approval of the market. "The outdoor market at this location would further enhance the public seating, dining and entertainment options in the plaza along the City’s waterfront, contributing to area vitality as a use which is compatible with surrounding uses," states their report.