More Parking Coming to Silver Line Tyson's Stop

Fairfax County validated a deal for a second interim parking lot for Silver Line commuters today, according to a news release from the county. Here’s more about the deal, from the release:

The agreement opens up 100 spaces at the existing, private parking garage for the Tower and Atrium buildings, located at 7900 Westpark Drive, McLean.

The garage sits approximately half a mile from the Tysons Corner Metro Station. Commuters can get to the station on Fairfax Connector Route 423. This bus, one of three Tysons Circulators, runs every 10 minutes from the property’s location to the rail station during peak periods.

Spaces will be available on the garage’s P1 level from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Friday. County leaders anticipate the 100 spaces will be available in the coming weeks.

“Until Tysons launches into the more walkable urban center it is envisioned to be, I am glad that temporary parking lots will be offered for people wishing to drive to the Silver Line,” said Fairfax CountyChairman Sharon Bulova.

At their meeting today, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisor authorized an 18-month agreement with the property’s owner, Washington Real Estate Investment Trust.This is the county’s second agreement to provide interim parking. Last July, it signed a similar deal with developer CityLine to offer 711 spaces near the McLean Metro station

WRIT, LP, will set parking fees, and it will continue to manage and maintain its privately-owned garage, including enforcing parking rules and removing trash and snow.

While there is no cost to the county for this agreement, it is contingent on reduced occupancy at the Tower Building while it is being renovated. If the property is expected to exceed 70 percent leasing, the agreement will end. At any time, however, the county or WRIT may terminate the agreement with 90-days notice, and after 18 months, both parties may also choose to renew the agreement with similar or different terms.

The garage is next to the McLean Hilton, as well as about half a mile from the Tysons Galleria. It also provides convenient access to the Capital Beltway and Route 123.

PHOTO: Silver Line metro interior courtesy of WMATA