February, 2008:
Great Falls Library
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Great Falls Library is located at 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls VA. The library houses a collection of more than 70,000 items and has 9 Internet stations available for public use. The library provides free wireless Internet access.
The library has the following services:
- Access Services — Large-print books, magnifier, and ZoomText. Audio Loop available in the meeting room.
- Display Cases — 2 Children’s Display Cases; one Community Display
- Book Sale — Ongoing, plus semi-annual sales in October and February.
- Meeting Areas — Meeting Room: capacity 155 (seated 72) Conference Room: capacity 8
- Quiet Study Room — 9 capacity
The Potomac River
The Potomac River is located on the east coast of the United States, and runs through Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. before it empties into the Chesapeake Bay. It is over 380 miles long and wider than 11 miles at its widest point.
As it passes through Washington DC, the nation’s capital, the Potomac passes the Washington Monument and the memorials of Jefferson, and Lincoln. Many consider the Potomac to be one of the most beautiful and bountiful rivers on the East Coast. The river is also widely regard its historic, scenic and recreational significance. Among the many who loved the Potomac was George Washington, who worked as a surveyor at many points along the banks of the river. George Washington’s mansion at Mount Vernon is on the Potomac.
Mount Vernon, George Washington's estate on the Potomac
The Potomac’s source is a small spring at the Fairfax Stone in West Virginia. From there, the river gathers many tributaries, winding through the mountains and valleys of Appalachia. One of it’s most dramatic turns occurs at Harper’s Ferry where the Shenandoah meets the Potomac.
At Great Falls, the Potomac tumbles down from the Appalachian Highlands to the sandy soils of the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Visitors from the colonial era to the modern era relish the views here. Today visitors at Great Falls will not only marvel at the cataracts, but also the engineering efforts of those who sought to fulfill George Washington’s dream of connecting the Chesapeake Bay to the Ohio River. The C & O Canal was only operational for a few short years but remnants of the system are still functional at Great Falls Park.
Finally, the river flows almost 400 miles widening to over 11 miles as it reaches the Chesapeake Bay on the long, low, and barren peninsula named Point Lookout, Maryland. Before the US Civil War, Point Lookout was home to a few hotels and boarding houses, but during the war it was converted into one of the largest and worst of the Union prisoner-of-war camps.
Fishers, anglers, boaters, sailors and kayakers all enjoy the Potomac. The Potomac River has a watershed of 14,670 square miles including tributaries in Maryland (the Monocacy, Savage, and St. Mary’s Rivers); in Virginia (the Shenandoah and Occoquan Rivers); in West Virginia (the South Branch and Cacapon Rivers); in Pennsylvania (Conococheague and Antietam Creeks); and in Washington DC (the Anacostia River). The Potomac cradles forests, battlefields, farmlands, mountains, parks, and cities. It is known to many as our Nation’s River.
If you’re searching for a home or condo in Northern Virginia with a view of the Potomac, contact Will Nesbitt with Condo Alexandria.
Alexandria’s DASH — riding tips and information about the public bus system
DASH (Driving Alexandrians Safely Home) buses are seen around, across and near the city of Alexandria, Virginia. The City of Alexandria wholly owns the DASH bus system and operates the system as a non-profit public service cooperation. But day to day management of the system is provided by Alexandria Transit Company.
If you’re new to the area, you’ll soon find out what others already know. The DASH buses are a clean, safe and effective way to get about the city. Boarding the bus is simple and easy. When the bus arrives, just step into the bus and then deposit the exact fare or use your WMATA SmarTrip card. If you have any questions about routes or transfers, ask the driver and then take a seat. On some of the most popular routes or during rush hours, there might not be any available seats. In that case just move as far to the rear of the bus as possible. This makes it easier for others to board easily.
Be aware that the bus driver doesn’t always stop at all bus stops! To signal to the driver that your stop is approaching, press the yellow signal strip or pull the bell cord. It’s best to do this about a block from your destination so the driver has timely notice to stop at the next bus stop. When you are exiting the bus the rear door is easiest because others may be waiting to board through the front door.
DASH has great service because it has great employees but also because area passengers observe a few simple rules of safety and courtesy:
- There is no smoking, eating, or drinking allowed on the bus.
- Radios, I-pods and other devices may only be used if they cannot be heard by others
- There is a limited number of priority seats that are reserved for
senior citizens and disabled persons. You may sit in these seats, but
riders are expected to volunteer that seat if the seat is needed by a
senior citizen or disabled person. If the bus is full, riders are
expected to volunteer seats as needed. - All passengers keep feet off passengers’ seats.
To maintain the high level of quality offered by DASH, drivers may refuse service to anyone who does not observe these rules or to anyone whose behavior is disruptive or hazardous to vehicle or passenger safety.
The manager of the DASH system, the Alexandria Transit Company (ATC), has been chosen by Metro Magazine as one of the top ten transit systems to work for in the United States. Metro Magazine identified the the top transit agency employers in the U.S. and Canada by survey employees from around the country. Alexandria Transit Company exhibit traits that are great for any employer:
- An open-door policy among managers;
- Relaxed, family atmosphere;
- Work-schedule flexibility;
- Strong employee recognition practices;
- Approachable senior executives;
- Opportunities for advancement;
- Lack of micro-management;
- Encouraging, supportive environment.
Metro Magazine is quoted saying, “the ability of transit systems to attract, hire, and retain top candidates to their organization hinges on their willingness and desire to become employers of choice in their communities.” In the Washington area, where there is a significant amount of competition in transportation jobs, Alexandria Transit has worked hard to be that employer of choice.
General Manager Sany Modell graciously commented on the achievement, “DASH prides itself on providing the highest level of customer service possible to its riders and its employees. If we treat our employees with respect and appreciation, they are more likely to treat our external customers with that same respect and appreciation.”
Alexandria National Cemetery
The Arlington National Cemetery is recognized around the country and around the world, but nearby is a similar treasure from our nation’s heritage: the Alexandria National Cemetery.
Arlington National Cemetery was featured in Gardens of Stone and numerous other feature films. This has no doubt added to Arlington’s mystique and celebrity. Arlington Cemetery was carved from the farm of Robert E. Lee, a native of Alexandria. This is one of many connections between Arlington and Alexandria National Cemeteries.
The five acres of Alexandria National Cemetery are tiny compared to Arlington’s 612 acres. Newcomers and those who don’t know the history of the area may be surprised to learn that while Alexandria was a colonial era settlement, Arlington is a relatively new creation. (Check out Alexandria’s best real estate deal ever!)
Alexandria National Cemetery predates the cemetery in Arlington and is in some ways the reason for Arlington’s existence. Alexandria National Cemetery was established during the Civil War in 1862 as one of the original 14 national cemeteries.
The first four acres of Alexandria National Cemetery were purchased by the US government from what was to be Spring Garden Farm. By 1870, the United States purchased additional land to bring the cemetery up to its current size.
The first burials made in Alexandria National Cemetery were soldiers who died during training for the Civil War. Additionally, some casualties were sick or diseased soldiers from one of the numerous hospitals around Alexandria. The death and destruction wrought by the Civil War exceeded all expectations. It was evident that Alexandria National Cemetery would be woefully short of the needs imposed by the War. By 1864, Alexandria National Cemetery was nearly filled to capacity. In large part, the shortage of space in Alexandria led to the planning, development and construction of Arlington National Cemetery.
After the Civil War, improvements were made to the design of Alexandria National Cemetery and by 1871 the cemetery had added a fountain, a cobblestone avenue and graveled walkways. A wrought-iron rostrum, a small pond and a greenhouse were added as well. The primary building on grounds is a brownstone structure—the superintendent’s lodge. The lodge dating to 1870 is the oldest surviving building on the grounds. The lodge is constructed in a style and with materials popular from the era and perhaps best recognized in the the Smithsonian Institution’s “Castle,” and the U.S. Capitol floor and rotunda door frames.
Like other national cemeteries, the Alexandria National Cemetery featured a “comfort station” built in 1887. This building is one of only a few such structures to survive to the present day. In 1927, the station significantly altered by adding a dining room and converting the facility into a kitchen/store room and tool-shed/toilet. The entire cemetery is surrounded by a wall of Seneca sandstone with River Blue Stone coping. (This is the same material used to build the superintendent’s lodge.) Visitors gain entry by passing through a 12-foot wide ornamental cast-iron gate at the Wilkes Street entrance.
In the 1930′s the flagpole was added and in 1995 the cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic places. There is no grave locator or kiosk on the grounds and the cemetery only has room for cremated remains and certain relatives of persons already buried at Alexandria National Cemetery.
Among other notable persons buried at the Alexandria National Cemetery are several “Buffalo Soldiers“—a nickname for several Cavalry Regiments of the US Army. Several African-American regiments of Buffalo Soldiers were formed during the Civil War to fight alongside the Union Army. Among these were the famed 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry and many United States Colored Troops Regiments. After the Civil War, the Buffalo Soldiers were established by Congress as the first peacetime all-black regiments in the regular U.S. Army. It is fitting that these soldiers are buried near Alexandria’s African American Heritage Park.
Together with the African American Heritage Park the Alexandria National Cemetery makes up the eastern boundary of the Carlyle District.
Fairfax County
Fairfax County is one of the largest, most prosperous and most populous counties in Virginia. To be more specific, according to the US Census Fairfax County has about a million residents. Furthermore, average annual household income in Fairfax County ($100,552) is twice the national average ($51,106).
The county government is managed by a Board of Supervisors that are elected from nine different magisterial districts . The board overseen by Chairman Gerald E. Connolly, who holds an at-large seat, and by Vice Chairman Sharon of the Braddock District.
The County Supervisors appoint seven members to the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority Commission which are
- Steven Davis Chairman,
- Michael Horwatt Vice Chairman,
- Ann Rodriguez Secretary/Treasurer,
- Ronald C. Johnson CEO of Ronson Network Services Corporation,
- Michael Lewis President of Liberty Capitol,
- Sudhakar Shenoy CEO of Information Management Consultants Inc.;
- and William Soza Chairman of Security One Bank.
Click on the image for a larger view of the map. To enter an address and find out what district that address is in Fairfax County Government has earned top marks from the Pew Charitable Trust’s Government Performance Project. The magisterial districts of Fairfax County are:
Braddock District is 26 square miles of mainly residential communities but includes recreational locations, Wakefield Recreation Center, Lake Accotink Park.
Sully District is supervised by Michael R. Frey. Sully offers its residents numerous public facilities, golf courses, and nearby Washington Dulles International Airport.
Lee District supervisor is Jeff McKay. Lee District is the home of the Lee District RECenter where residents can swim, jog, play racquetball, basketball and volleyball in the 20,000 square foot gym. Also, Huntley Meadows park is located in the Lee District and is home to forests, wetlands, and flower filled meadows. In addition, there is the Franconia Museum which preserves the Franconia area.
The supervisor from Dranesville District is John H. Foust. Dranesville District has the Farmers Market which runs through May until November.
Mason District’s supervisor is Penelope A. Gross. The business centers of Bailey’s Crossroads, Seven Corners, and Annandale are all located in Mason District. Recreational facilities here include Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Lincolnia Senior Center, Pinecrest Gold Coarse, Green Spring Gardens Park, Clark House, Bailey’s Community Center, Willston Multicultural Center, and Mason District Park.
The Springfield District supervisor is Pat Herrity. Springfield District is the home for Fair Oaks, Clifton, Burke and Fairfax Station. This year the inaugural Springfield District Children’s Fair which included a BMX demo, exhibits from the fire and police stations, a 5 mile run/walk around Burke Lake and a golf tournament. Parks include Accotink Stream Valley, Franconia, Lee High, Island Creek, and Hooes Road.
Catherine M. Hudgins is the supervisor for Hunter Mill District. The Hunter Mill District includes parts of Tysons Corner, Vienna, North Vienna, Reston, Oak Hill, and areas in Herndon.
Mount Vernon District (supervisor: Gerry W. Hyland) has much to offer its residents. There are many historical sites including George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and Woodlawn Plantation and the Pope-Leighey House. Recreation facilities include Mount Vernon Rec Center and George Washington Rec Centers, Fort Hunt Park, Mason Neck State Park, Pohick Regional Park, Fairfax Fair which is held in June of every year, and Lord and Ladies Fairfax who are announced at the Fairfax fair.
The Providence District supervisor is Linda Q. Smyth. Providence District is approximately 22. 31 square miles. “Nottoway Nights” is one of the main features of the Providence District which is a summer concert series. Shopping centers include Tyson’s Corner Center, Fairfax Square, Tyson’s Galleria and Fair Oaks mall.
Throughout the county there are numerous departments and agencies that provide essential community services such as senior centers, health clinics, and school/day care programs. Here are some great tools for researching homes, neighborhoods and properties in Fairfax County.
- Will Nesbitt
- Northern Virginia statistics
- Fairfax County Records
- Neighborhood Comparison — Compare neighborhood stats side by side.
- Property Search
- Condo Property Search
Showing properties
1 - 5 of 500+.
See more Fairfax County.
(all data current as of
2/11/2012)
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$175,000 : 3362 Woodburn Rd #31, Annandale2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
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$590,000 : 25496 Carrington Dr, Chantilly4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths
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$649,000 : 2418 Cypress Green Ln, Herndon4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths
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$134,900 : 10028 Mosby Woods Dr #234, Fairfax2 beds, 1 full bath
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$219,900 : 9522 Unity Ln, Lorton3 beds, 2 full, 2 part baths
Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.
Northern Virginia’s Roads
I-495 along Alexandria VA
Northern Virginia’s traffic is shaped by its proximity to Washington DC and proximity to several important job centers. The world famous Capitol Beltway (Interstate 495) circles DC like a wheel around a hub. The Beltway links Northern Virginia’s suburban communities such as Springfield, Kingstowne, Braddock Road and Vienna to the transportation network. The Beltway generally moves at or above the speed limit most times and most days.
In Virginia, the Beltway travels from the American Legion Bridge upriver to the newly-rebuilt Woodrow Wilson Bridge downriver. At each bridge the Beltway enters Maryland. In Maryland the Beltway loops around DC creating a complete route.
There are several important job centers along 495, such as Tysons Corner. Tysons Corner is poorly served by mass transit and there are regularly scheduled traffic jams at Tysons every rush hour. In addition, the bridges are choke-points for traffic entering and leaving Virginia at the American Legion Bridge and at the recently re-built Woodrow Wilson Bridge.
Traffic into Maryland at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge favors Virginia commuters heading into Maryland. Commuters from Virginia generally won’t have much trouble reaching Andrews AFB, the Census Bureau, etc. Conversely, the evening approach to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge backs up with Maryland residents heading home from jos in Virginia. This problem should soon be alleviated greatly as the new bridge comes completely online.
The American Legion Bridge serves many Virginia commuters headed for Rockville, Silver Spring, etc. This burden, coupled with its proximity to Tysons Corner causes the Beltway to slow during rush hour.
The Beltway loops around DC like a wheel around a hub. Many roads and rails in the area link to DC like spokes on that wheel. There are many of these spokes, but in Virginia there are three primary corridors from DC: I-66, I-395, and US 1 together with the GW Parkway. 66 Corridor and Orange Line I-66 is HOV only during rush hour, but other routes (such as 50, 29 & 28) parallel the interstate as it approaches DC. Taken as a whole this road system can carry a tremendous amount of traffic, but it slows considerably during rush hour.
The 66 corridor is also served by the Orange Line, with Metro stops in Arlington at Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston (and more). The Orange Line continues through West Falls Church and then into Fairfax County with a terminal station at Vienna. 66 is used by commuters in Fairfax, Centreville, Manassas and beyond to the hinterlands.
In addition to the routes mentioned above, outside the Beltway 66 is supported by the Dulles Tollroad, which links the area to Dulles Airport and outlying suburbs such as Herndon, Reston and beyond.
I-395
Interstate 395 doesn’t have a Metro train service but it carries a massive load of traffic none-the-less. In addition to its 8 to 10 lanes of traffic, 395 has an extra 3 lanes of HOV that switch direction depending on the hour of the day. 395 leaves DC between the Pentagon and Crystal City (both in Arlington) and on the way out to I-95 and the Beltway at Springfield, I 395 passes Shirlington, Landmark, East Falls Church and other neighborhoods.
Traffic on 395 is nearly always heavy but only slows during rush hour. George Washington Parkway, Rt. 1 and the Yellow & Blue Lines North of the Key Bridge, the 4 to 6 lanes of the George Washington Parkway ties into I-495 at the American Legion Bridge. This route serves Mclean and Northern Arlington County. South of Memorial Bridge,
the George Washington Parkway and US Rt. 1 together only carry 8 to 10 lanes of traffic.
Traffic here is relatively light considering the proximity to the city, and the fact that US 1 has several traffic lights. This route follows the Potomac downriver toward the Beltway at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.
This route is also supported by the Yellow and Blue Metro Lines. Taken as a whole, this route serves commuters at Crystal City, Pentagon City, Del Ray, Old Town, New Alexandria and Mt. Vernon to the city. At King St, the Yellow and Blue Lines fork with the Yellow Line continuing toward Mt. Vernon, but ending at Huntington. The Blue Line turns south toward Springfield with stops at Van Dorn and Springfield.
List of Neighborhoods in Old Town Alexandria
Abingdon Row
Alexandria House
Arch Hall
Backyard Boats
Baggett Tract
Bashford Lane Cluster
Bearings South
Braddock Lofts
Braddock Place
Brocketts Crossing
Burges Square
Cameron Mews
Canal Place
Canal Way
Carlyle Square
Carlyle Towers
Carriage Works
Cavalier Homes
Clover
Colecroft
Colecroft Station
College Park
Courts
Dempsey
Fords Landing
Fort Ellsworth
Glenmore
Harbor Terrace
Hearthstone Mews
Hunting Creek
Jefferson Homes
Lee Mews
Liberty Row
Marina Towers
Mt Vernon Const Co
Nethergate
North Old Town
Old Town
Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Greens
Old Town Village
Old Towne
Parker Gray
Parker Gray Historic
Pommander Walk
Porto Vecchio
Potomac Greens
Potowmack Crossing
Prescott Condominiums
Quaker Hill
Rivergate
Riverton
Seminary Walk
Shad Row
Shuters Hill
St Asaph Square
Stonell\clover
Swann daingerfield
Taylor Run Pkwy
The Condominiums At Carlyle Square
The Royalton
Thomas Shelton Estate
Tobacco Key
Torpedo Factory
The Condominiums at Carlyle Square
Virginia Village
Watergate of Alexandria
Westover
Wheat & Suters
Wilkes Corner
Yates Gardens
