County Supervisors Issue Key Approval for Massive Mixed-Use Project

FAIRFAX, VA-The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has given the go-ahead for the development of Fairlee-MetroWest, a mixed-use residential, office and retail development proposed by Pulte Homes Inc. and Clark Realty Capital. The board members’ decision alters land-use laws to accommodate a live-work-play destination in what has long been a residential neighborhood.

Fairlee-Metro West will occupy a site that was once home to a pocket of 61 single-family homes. “The proposal to modify the comprehensive plan to allow higher density mixed-use development on this site has been the subject of discussion and debate for more than three years,” supervisor Linda Q. Smyth explains in a final statement on the board’s decision. Smyth goes on to note that the final plan addresses concerns expressed in public meetings, including Metro capacity, replacement of Metro parking, environmental issues, and the appropriate mix of uses and the protection of stable neighborhoods.