Controversial Reston Density Increase To Be Discussed In April

RESTON, VA -- The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors plans to hold two hearings, one in April and one in May, to discuss the controversial proposal to increase the density limit in Reston, which local activists argue will cause explosive growth without the infrastructure to support it.

The proposed Planned Residential Community (PRC) zoning ordinance amendment tentatively will be discussed April 5 at a Planning Commission Public Hearing and May 15 at a Board of Supervisors Public Hearing, according to a Reston Association statement.

On March 6, the board will approve those public hearing dates, and could also approve the density limit increase itself at the May 15 meeting.

"Reston Association has expressed concern about the amendment, as currently written, and its potentially negative impact on the Reston community," the statement notes.

The dates are subject to change.

"The county is seeking to amend the zoning ordinance to allow for an increase in the number of residential units permitted within the PRC district," the statement adds. "The current Reston PRC ordinance limits the population to 13 people per acre for properties within this zoning district. The county wants to allow for up to 16 persons per acre to add an additional 12,257 multifamily residential units. This growth is focused in the Town Center, Village Centers and the Transit Station Areas (TSA) around the three Metro Stations."

Image via Fairfax County