Projects Hinge on Metrorail Plan

MCLEAN, VA-Virginia transportation department officials hold the key to where new commercial development and redevelopment will surface along a 23-mile passenger rail line from Tysons Corner to Washington Dulles International Airport, according to staffers in the office of Gov. Timothy M. Kaine.

Kaine wants the Virginia General Assembly to approve the planned $4-billion Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project so that new office park and retail developments will follow a prescribed construction plan. Virginia road officials are working on a specific route for new developments along the Metrorail project and on nearby roads which the governor also wants upgraded, Kaine’s office says. Their suggestions are expected over the summer.

Meanwhile, developers bide their time, awaiting the report. For example, McLean-based West Group plans to create a mini-city on 142 acres the company owns in Tysons Corner, West Group officials have previously announced.