DASH (Driving Alexandrians Safely Home) buses operate around, across and near the city of Alexandria, Virginia. DASH buses are clean, safe and an effective way to get around Alexandria. 

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.)

If you're new to city buses, you need to 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 exiting the bus, the rear door is easiest because others may be waiting to board through the front door.

DASH riders are expect to follow a few simple rules of safety and courtesy:

• Smoking, eating, or drinking is not permitted on the bus.
• Radios, I-pods and other devices may only be used if they cannot be heard by others
• There are 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 must keep their feet off the seats.

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.

Around Old Town Alexandria, parking can sometimes be a hassle, (unless you want to pay to park in a garage). But, a great way to explore Alexandria is to take the Metro to King St. and then hop a ride on the King St. Trolley. There is no charge to ride the trolley and it makes stops about every two blocks between the King St. Metro and the Potomac. The Trolley was designed to compliment service by the National Harbor's new Water Taxi. The National Harbor is located across the Potomac in Maryland and is the site of a brand new convention center. The convention center and many restaurants are already open in this brand new area landmark. Additionally boat service is available up and down river from the Strand in Old Town. The length of this circuit can be walked in about 20 minutes, so many choose to take the trolley to the Potomac and then walk back to the Metro through Old Town.

The Trolley makes it final stop before returning to the Metro near the Torpedo Factory. Just as the name implies, the Torpedo Factory was torpedo factory in the early part of the last century. Today the Torpedo Factory Art Center is a world-renowned art center with three floors of open studios and galleries. Here, one can observe artists and purchase original artwork. The Torpedo Factory Art Center is on the Potomac waterfront. Street musicians and entertainers play nearly every night weather permitting, and tourists and locals alike enjoy walks down by the waterfront.

.The trolley runs its route from 10 am to 10 pm every day. A printable map is available for those who know nothing about the area.

Union Station in Alexandria VA is a historic train station located between King and Duke Streets at the foot of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial. The station is within site of the USPTO and nearby Carlyle District. The station backs up against the King St. Metro, making it an excellent transfer point for riders of the VRE (Virginia Railway Express). Both Amtrak and VRE stop at the station and DASH and Metrobus lines stop at the King St. Station.

Alexandria's Union Station shares a name with Union Station in nearby Washington DC. Locals usually refer to the station in Washington as Union Station and the station in Alexandria as Alexandria Station. Both stations were so-named because at one time they united several lines/companies. The Amtrak code is for this station is ALX.

The terminal itself was built in 1905 in the Federal Revival style. Although it has been renovated and improved the original 1905 terminal is still in use. The memorial before the terminal is dedicate to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Alexandria Union Station
110 Callahan Dr.
Alexandria VA 22314

Drivers on Rt. 7 near Tysons Corner will notice permanent changes to traffic patterns that will allow for construction of a Tysons Central Metrorail station. The Tysons Central station is part of the new line that will serve the Dulles Metrorail Project. Tysons Central station construction is scheduled to end in 2013.

According to the Washington Post:

"The changes are at the intersection of Route 7, Marshalls Drive (the road leading to the Marshalls store) and the frontage road. Traffic from Marshalls Drive and the frontage road onto Route 7 is now only allowed to turn right. Drivers may not turn from Marshalls Drive to westbound Route 7, nor from the frontage road to eastbound Route 7. Additionally, drivers on Marshalls Drive or the frontage road may not cross Route 7."

Franconia-Springfield Metro station is located in Springfield, Virginia at the end of the Blue Line. The address of this station is 6880 Frontier Drive, Springfield VA 22150, which places it just off the Fairfax County Parkway in close proximity to the Springfield Mall.

While the metro stations in Alexandria and Arlington are designed for urban living for the use of those within walking distance, the Franconia Springfield station is designed for commuters with cars. This station has Metro's largest parking garage, with over five thousand parking spaces. Commuters from Franconia, Springfield and Kingstowne all make use of this metro.

This station is also well-served by Virginia Railway Express, Metrobus, local and regional bus lines.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria and Will Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

Train station at Old Town Alexandria VA on summer evening. Alexandria's AMTRAK station and the King St. Metro both stop at the foot of the George Washington Masonic Memorial. The VRE (Virginia Railway Express) also uses this Alexandria train station. Many locals call this landmark building the Masonic Temple or the Lighthouse. The Memorial is atop Shooter's Hill which commands an excellent view of Old Town.





I like dropping by the Lighthouse at sunset for the views to Old Town Alexandria. The Carlyle District is easily seen from Shooter's Hill also.  The windows you can see at Carlyle Towers from the George Washington National Masonic Memorial all have great views toward the memorial.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Will Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo 1 Alexandria. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

Leave your car behind?  I can help you live in Arlington, Alexandria or Falls Church--without owning a car. Outside the City of Washington DC, Arlington County has the highest number of Metro Subway stops in the Capital Region.

Many large employment centers--Roslyn, Courthouse, Clarendon, Crystal City, The Pentagon, Pentagon City and all of Falls Church City are on either the Yellow or Blue Line of the Metro system  These areas are also loaded with all kinds of residential properties--single family homes, townhouses and condos.   Properties of all different sizes and prices ranges are available for purchase of lease.

Want to get around? Try the healthy alternative--bikes!  Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax counties are  home to one of the nations most extensive system of bike trails.  Want to know a local secret--bikes are permitted on both the subway trains and Metro buses!  Bike lockers are available at most Metro stations

Still need are car from time to time?  Use Zip Car. Hundreds of cars are available at dozens of sites all around the area-Metro stops, shopping centers, the business district, restaurant areas, museums--even the airport. Here is another local secret--Zip Car parking spots are just about as convenient as handicapped parking.

Contact Brian Brooks at Condo 1 Alexandria to find just the right property for you and your family--but not your car!

One of the great things about life in Alexandria VA is the proximity to two public marinas: one at Belle Haven and the other at Potowmack Landing north of Old Town. I have always wanted to sail, and yesterday Julie surprised me by signing us up for a social sail with the Sailing Club of Washington.

The Sailing Club of Washington is a group of over 400 people that includes a mixture of folks who have never sailed but want to learn and old salts who've been sailing for years along with those who simply enjoy socializing with other sailing enthusiasts. The Sailing Club of Washington (SCOW) is a 501(c)(7) organization (a social club) that was originally chartered on July 12, 1966 "to provide the membership thereof with the opportunity and instrumentalities to become expert in the art of sailing for their individual and mutual education, benefit and enjoyment."

This boat used to be a club boat, but it's owned by a member who still shares it with the club. The Sailing Club has six boats:

• four 19' Flying Scots;
• two 25' Catalinas

The boats are kept at the Washington Sailing Marina just south of National Airport. SCOW offers classes, individual use of our boats, club sponsored activities and a place for sailors in the D.C. area to come together and enjoy the sport and recreation of sailing.

We were excited as we prepared to board the vessel. It was a short walk along the dock and then we boarded.

National Airport is visible behind us. The winds were light and steady, perfect for beginners.

There were several other vessels nearby, most were sailors but there were a few flat-bottom fishermen out as well.

After we were underway, the skipper let me man the tiller! What fun! I had to make sure that we caught the right wind, without hitting posts or other boats.

Julie snapped a couple of pictures of me having a blast.

Eventually the sun started to set and it was time to head back to port.

What a great club! I can't endorse this activity enough. The fees are reasonable, the company was pleasant. And I really like sailing.

We'll be back another day.

If you're looking for a home near the marina, you might consider some of the following communities:

• Potomac Greens
• Marina Towers
• Port Royal
• Alexandria House
• Harborside
• Harbor Terrace
• Potowmack Crossing

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Will Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo 1 Alexandria. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

Wouldn't it be nice to ride the Metro to someplace near your destination and then pick up a car just steps from the train or bus. You could use the care to run errands, shop or reach any other business or social event not easily accessible via transit. Then simply return the car to the Metro station and you're on your way back home.

Well, Metro offers car sharing at selected Metro stations and around the region at locations convenient to Metrobus. This is done in partnership with Zipcar. Car sharing is available in Metro Kiss & Ride lots at 39 of the 86 Metrorail stations (see station pages for locations) and many other neighborhood locations both near Metrorail stations without Kiss & Ride lots and elsewhere in the region.

How does it work?

Zipcar users pay an annual membership fee, then reserve and pick up a car when you need it. A range of vehicles are available. As a member you can pick the car that suits your needs at the time. You can pick a

• compact car,
  
• van,
  
• pickup truck,
  
• convertible,
  
• or gas/electric hybrid.
  

The Capital Beltway is interstate I-495. It circles Washington DC by way of Virginia and Maryland. The Beltway crosses the Potomac at two points. South of DC the Beltway crosses the Potomac via the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. North of DC, I-495 crosses the Potomac just south of Great Falls on the American Legion Bridge. The bridges are area choke-points and often snarl traffic at the bridge approach. The sign above is 5.5 miles south of the drawbridge at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

When construction or problems narrow the flow of cars, traffic starts to back up.

But often the Beltway is like any other interstate in America---any other interstate that is 10 lanes wide and circles the capital that is. To search for a home near the Beltway or to find a residence that will fit your commute check with Condo 1 Alexandria.

About the Author: Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo 1 Alexandria / Will Nesbitt Realty in Alexandria VA. He specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne.

Belle Haven Marina is found on the George Washington Parkway just south of historic Old Town Alexandria. Belle Haven Marina is owned by the National Park Service and operated by Belle Haven Marina Inc. The Belle Haven Marina is a short walk from River Towers, Belle View and New Alexandria. Rowboats, canoes, kayaks and sail boats are available for rent. Sign-up for sailing lessons and your package will include a limited number of free hours of sailing.

The Marina has a short pier and the George Washington Parkway has many points to fish the Potomac River. Many anglers rent or own boats which ply more serene and secluded spots nearby. The ramp fee is only $5.

From the marina, one can see the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

The story of Alexandria, especially Old Town, is rich in seafaring traditions. Alexandria is not really a great seaport anymore but yet and still many seagoing vessels---including pleasure boats, cruise liners, transport ships, tour ships and ships of war---ply the waters of the Potomac River and some of these vessels dock at the Alexandria Waterfront. Additionally, when the weather warms it is not uncommon to find thousands of residents and visitors can be found along the waterfront.

Because Alexandria has citizens and mariners in harms way, the the City of Alexandria Fire Department has developed the Marine Operations Team. to assist in the protection of citizens and mariners who use the various waterways in and adjacent to the city either for business or recreation. The City of Alexandria Marine Operations Team consists of 24 members and a Team Leader (Battalion Chief) trained and training as Marine Firefighters, Swift Water Rescue Technicians, Lifeguards, Boat Operators and Crewmembers.

Shown below is the Fireboat 201 Vigilant---a Class 'C' fireboat equipped with a 1500 gpm PTO pump and a full compliment of equipment as required by NFPA 1925. The Vigilant is a swift vessel capable of speeds greater than 40 knots. When needed, paramedics are deployed aboard Vigilant to give the vessel an Advanced Life Support capability.

The city also deploys two Zodiac all-weather inflatables are used by the Marine Operations Team to gain rapid access to persons in distress in the marine environment. They can also be utilized to assist members of the Hazardous Materials in deploying booms. Alexandria and other regional swift water rescue teams operate regardless of the environment or jurisdictional boundary.

The King St. Metro is a great station for commuters, day-trippers or tourists. Near the Metro, one will find many interesting things to fill an afternoon, an evening or an entire day.

The King St. Metro serves both the Yellow and Blue Lines. It is a hub for many bus routes and the King St. Trolley. Most hours there are cabs waiting at the station to serve as needed.

In addition, this station links the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and Amtrak to the Washington Metro Transit Authority. There are a variety of fun things to do here, just a few blocks from the new Patent and Trademark Office.

The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the Shooters Hill, the location of the "Alexandria Lighthouse" (aka the George Washington National Masonic Memorial.) The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the hill where King St. veers away from Old Town. From the Memorial, and from the Metro, one can look down King St. toward the Potomac to the unique shops, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and activities of Old Town Alexandria. The area has some of the shops you would expect in an upscale mall, but many of shops and restaurants you'll find only here.

Driving Down River

From the CIA Headquarters, downriver to the hieghts of Rosslyn, there are several overlooks that provide nice views of Georgetown in Washington DC. Picnicers will find parks and pull-overs where they can take a break from their drive along the Potomac.

After passing under the beautiful Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Parkway passes one of my favorite (and one of the area's least known) Presidential memorials---Teddy Roosevelt Island. This forested island on the Potomac takes visitors into another world, and as you walk the trails on the island it is easy to forget that you are in an urban environment.  If you've never done so, walk the trails and discover T. Roosevelt's statue and memorial---a fitting tribute to a man who love the outdoors and who helped establish the national park system. 

If you're travelling south, or downriver, you won't have access to the island at this point and you'll have to save that bit of fun for your return. But just minutes past the Key Bridge, you'll clear the woods of Teddy Roosevelt Island and Rosslyn's bluff and will get your first glimpse of the national Capitol in all it's glory.

At the Monuments

From the road you'll have views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial across the Potomac in Washington DC.  On the hill above you in Virginia, you'll have a glimpse of the Iwo Jima Memorial. There is a mish-mash of poorly marked connecting roads entering and leaving the Parkway as you approach Memorial Bridge at and around the Iwo Jima Memorial. 

These connectors can be confusing to tourists, but locals zip on and off the Parkway to access DC or Arlington.  Despite the potential for accidents with slower moving site-seers and quick moving commuters, there are few incidents here: a testament to the fine design of the Parkway.

Memorial Bridge marks the entrance to Arlington National Cemetary, a solemn and beautiful place where Presidents, soldiers and honored citizens of the United States have taken their final rest. Fittingly, Memorial Bridge connects Arlington House, Robert E. Lee's home in Virginia, with the Lincoln Memorial, symbolizing the bridge that connects North and South in union.

National Airport

As one passes the Memorial Bridge the Jefferson Memorial with its famed Tidal Pools, becomes more visible. Past the Jefferson Memorial, the Parkway crosses Humpback Bridge onto Columbia Island, home to Lady Bird Johnson Memorial Grove.  At this point, travellers downriver will have access to a pleasant picnic area which provides excellent views up to the Pentagon and the Air Force Memorial.

As the parkway leaves the island, it jogs away from the Pentagon and the hi-rise skyline of Crystal City toward Ronald Reagan National Airport. The airport's runaway nearly meets the road as the parkway gentle wends its way downriver. Here the parkway offers pleasant views of the Potomac and local air traffic landing at Reagan National. Just past the airport is the first of two marinas on the parkway.

Old Town Alexandria

After the marina, the Parkway slows to a traffic light and then for the next mile or so, makes its way through the streets of Old Town Alexandria. Old Town is a delight, with shops, boutiques and historical sites. Past Old Town the view opens up again with a sweeping view of the River toward National Harbor. The Belle Haven Country Club marks the approach to the Belle Haven Marina. This provides a great spot for a picnic as well as an opportunity to rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats and sailboats.

Past the marina is the Dyke Marsh, a wetlands filled with birds, fish and wildlife. Across the river Fort Washington, a relic of the War of 1812 watches the narrows of the Potomac. Fort Washington, once a military stronghold, now a pleasant park, is a destination in itself and is worth an afternoon. The Virginia side of the river has Fort Hunt, where moldering remnants of World War II stand silent watch over a peaceful park.

Mansion at Mount Vernon

After several scenic vistas at and around Stratford Landing and Arcturus, the Parkway at last comes to an end at George Washington's mansion at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens is the oldest national historic preservation organization in the country. Mount Vernon is the most popular historic estate in America. The grounds are well-preserved as is the home itself.

Top posted speed on the Parkway is 50 mph, and cruising speeds rarely exceed this limit. On the other hand, even during the worst of rush hour, speeds are rarely less than 45 mph. Those who are unfamiliar with traffic in the national Capitol region might not fully appreciate what an accomplishment this is.

To put these numbers in perspective, posted speeds on I-495 (the Beltway) are generally 55 mph.  Traffic on the Beltway often exceeds 65 mph, but during rush hour, there are several points where the traffic slows to less than 25 mph. The Beltway is bumper to bumper madness squeezed between concrete sound-walls, while the GW Parkway is an easy cruise along the Potomac. Is it any wonder why I love the GW?

The GW Parkway winds along the banks of the Potomac River, starting near Great Falls in Mclean and then travels downriver all the way to Mt. Vernon, George Washington's Mansion. The parkway is an ideal drive for a tourist or visitor who would like to see some of the best views and sites the area has to offer. 

A broad well-maintain bike and jogging trail runs the length of the GW Parkway, and is well used by residents and tourists alike.

The GW Parkway runs from Mt. Vernon to Mclean and Great Falls through the Alexandria and Arlington. At it's southern end it meets Old Mount Vernon Highway. Upriver, it is connected by the American Legion Bridge to a continuation in Maryland on the Clara Barton Parkway.  The GW Parkway provides excellent views that are impressive to even a jaded commuter.

A commuter will find this is one of the best routes around the nation's Capitol.  As a result of this, or because of this, some of the priciest and most exclusive neighborhoods in Northern Virginia are found along the GW Parkway. Here's a sampling what's currently on the market in some of these neighborhoods along the Parkway.

• Mount Vernon
• Belle Haven, Belle View, New Alexandria
• Old Town Alexandria
• Rosslyn, North Arlington
• Mclean

Fort Hunt Road meanders from Rt. 1 south of Old Town at Huntington over about 5 miles to Mount Vernon. Fort Hunt Road runs generally parallel to the George Washington Parkway where it runs south from Alexandria to Mount Vernon. Where the GW Parkway runs along the Potomac at the river's edge, Fort Hunt road climbs up to the ridge described in detail here.

Fort Hunt is quilted with quiet neighborhoods that are among my favorite in Northern Virginia. From affordable cozy condos at River Towers and Belle View to the impressive riverside residences to Arcturus or ridgetop homes of Belle Haven, Fort Hunt has all that is great in America. I even love the middle America type neighborhoods of Bucknell Manor and Waynewood. In addition there are architecturally distinctive and important homes at Hollin Hills.

There are two schools on Fort Hunt Road: Belle View Elementary and Carl Sandburg Middle School. (My children attended both of these schools.) There are two nieghborhood shopping centers on Fort Hunt Road: the Belle View Shopping Center and the Hollin Hall Shopping Center. Fort Hunt Park, the road's namesake is at the lower end of the road.

The Braddock Metro Station is located at 700 N. West St., entrance at the North side Braddock Rd. Residents of the Braddock Road Metro neighborhood are participating in a comprehensive re-planning of the blocks between the Metro Station and Route 1. There are already several condo communities at Braddock Metro, including Colecroft Station Condos and the Lofts at Braddock. Toward Rosemont and Del Ray, the neighborhood is mostly composed of upscale single-family detached homes.

Braddock Metro Station has relatively low Metro ridership. Near the metro there are acres of empty lots and warehouses in what was once an industrial area, but is now a highly sought after neighborhood. So, this neighborhood is poised for redevelopment. Residents, activists and developers are working with local government to plan architecture, public spaces and parks, safe and pedestrian friendly streets, local retail and restaurants, transit, and a mix of housing types for all incomes.

The first train departs at 4:55am at Huntington Station, and last train departs at 12:33am Huntington Station. Braddock Metro is 7 blocks from the center of Old Town Alexandria, of Washington Street, and 5 blocks to the Potomac River.

Parking available using SmarTrip cards with 10 short metered spaces. There are 46 bike racks and 12 lockers at the station.

Metrorail fares:
$1.65 minimum
$4.50 maximum
Children's fares:
Up to 2 children 4 years or younger ride free with an adult paying full fare.
Children 5 or older pay adult fares.
Seniors 65+ ride for half price of the regular fares.

Since September of 1985, Fairfax County has provided an alternative to WMATA's Metrobus called the Fairfax Connector. The Fairfax Connector began operation in the southern end of Fairfax County from Huntington Metro Station to Mount Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Today the Connector has more than fifty routes providing public transportation to most of Fairfax County. The northern end of the county including Reston and Herndon is now well served by buses. Riders pay fares in by

• cash (exact change only);
• valid transfer tickets or tokens;
• bus pass cards from regional bus systems;
• Virginia Railway Express (VRE) passes;
• Translink passes or;
•  with Metro SmarTrip cards.

The basic fare for a bus trip is usually a dollar, but certain express routes range up to three dollars. When transferring from Metrorail transfer, fares are discounted significantly. The dollar fare is discounted to 35 cents (exact change) with a transfer ticker and the three dollar fair is discounted to $2.10 exact change. Pennies are not accepted as fare. Drivers do not carry cash and do not make change.

Fares for seniors are discounted to either $0.50 or $1.00. Seniors get free fare with a Metrorail transfer. Up to two children under age 5 may ride for free with a paying adult. The disabled ride free on all routes.

The are are a number of simple restrictions and rules on the Fairfax Connector. Smoking, eating, drinking and playing radio or video devices without earphones are strictly prohibited. Strollers must be folded on the bus. Service animals are permitted on the bus. Other small animals are permitted only if transported in a secure container.

Bus transfer tickets or tokens are issued FREE to customers paying fares with cash or tokens. Transfers are valid for two additional hours from time of boarding for an unlimited number of rides. A transfer cannot be redeemed for another transfer. VRE, Translink and bus passes serve as transfers.

For three dollars, a rider can purchase a regional one day bus pass. This pass is valid for an unlimited number of rides on local routes of participating regional bus systems on the day purchased. The one-day pass has a value of $1.25 per trip when used on express routes. The one day pass expires at midnight, Sunday-Thursday and at 2 a.m., Friday and Saturday.

North Fairfax County Schedules : Fairfax Connector bus routes serving Fairfax County Government Center, Herndon, Reston, Tysons Corner, Crystal City, Pentagon including service to the West Falls Church-VT/UVA, Dunn Loring/Merrifield, and Vienna-Fairfax/GMU Metrorail Stations.

South Fairfax County Schedules : Fairfax Connector bus routes serving Belle View, Fort Hunt, Fullerton Industrial Park, Kingstowne, Richmond Highway, Springfield, Tysons Corner, Pentagon including service to the Huntington, Van Dorn Street, Franconia-Springfield, and Dunn Loring/Merrifield Metrorail Stations.

Schedules for Mobile Devices - Get up to date schedules for Northern Virginia area transits services delivered to your handheld device by CommuterPage.com.

Fairfax Connector Fare Chart

Fares are subject to change without notice. These fares were last updated January 2008 and as of November 15th they are still presumed to be (but not guaranteed to be) accurate.

Crystal City Metro Station is located is at 1750 South Clark St. Arlington, VA 22202 on the Blue and Yellow lines. First train departs at 5:02 am Huntington. The last train departing at 12:08 am Huntington. The station is part of the underground mall-office-apartment complex near the Crystal City shops. Also, Virginia Railway Express is part of Crystal City with has stops from Fredericksburg and Manassas which run Monday through Friday. There is no parking at the station.
Crystal City trains leave exactly 2 hours later on Saturdays and Sundays.
There are 10 bike racks available.
(202) 637-7000

The Eisenhower Metro stop is located at 2400 Eisenhower Avenue. It is across the street from the Hoffman Town Center and entertainment complex. Eisenhower station is just inside the Capital Beltway (I-495) at the Telegraph Road exit. The Eisenhower Metro is served by the Yellow Line.

Eisenhower is a two platform station. Access to both platforms is provided to two escalators and an elevator. Bike parking is available with 10 bike racks and 6 lockers in the station.

The first train departs at 4:51 am Huntington and the last train departs at 12:37 am Huntington. Service became available to the public on December, 17, 1983. The REX bus provides service nearby at the corner of Swamp Fox Rd. and Eisenhower. Eisenhower is served by DASH buses 2, 6, & 7.

Metrorail fares are posted on the WMATA site. Fares are discounted for children and seniors.

The Eisenhower Metro serves the Carlyle District and is convenient for workers at businesses in and around the Hoffman Center. The Eisenhower Metro is also useful for many residents in the condos of the Carlyle District. For some residents, the Eisenhower Metro is more convenient than the King St. Metro.

The Eisenhower Metro is in the 22314 zip code, which is generally considered Old Town Alexandria, but there is very little that is "old" anywhere near this stop in the Carlyle District.  The Carlyle Towers and several other new structures dominate the skyline here. For more information about Carlyle Towers, or the condos of the Carlyle District, please contact Will Nesbitt of Condo 1 Alexandria at 703 765 0300.

About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Will Nesbitt Realty and maintains Condo 1 Alexandria. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

The Pentagon City Metro Station is located at 1250 South Hayes St. Arlington, VA 22202 on the Blue and Yellow lines. First train departs at 5:02 am Huntington. The last train departs at 12:06 am Huntington. The station serves the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and the surrounding neighborhood.There is no metro parking at this station, but there are many garages and parking areas nearby at Pentagon Row and at the Fashion Centre. Trains leave exactly 3 hours later on Friday and Saturday nights.
There are 8 bike racks and 22 lockers.

Call (202) 962-1116 for rentals.

General Information call: (202) 637-7000

• Pentagon City --- homes for sale near Pentagon City with tax info, school data and more
  
• For rent --- Live data on rentals in 22202 zip code.

• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale less than $500,000 in 22202 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale from $300,000 to $700,000 in 22202 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale over $650,000 in 22202 zip code.

There is no charge to ride the trolley and it makes stops about every two blocks between the King St. Metro and the Potomac. The length of this circuit can be walked in about 20 minutes, so many choose to take the trolley to the Potomac and then walk back to the Metro through Old Town.

The Trolley makes it final stop before returning to the Metro near the Torpedo Factory. Just as the name implies, the Torpedo Factory was torpedo factory in the early part of the last century. Today it is a world-renowned art center with three floors of open studios and galleries. Here, one can observe artists and purchase original artwork. The Torpedo Factory is on the waterfront where street musicians and entertainers play nearly every night.

The Trolley was designed to compliment service by the National Harbor's new Water Taxi. The National Harbor is located across the Potomac in Maryland and is the site of a brand new convention center. The convention center and many restaurants are already open in this brand new area landmark. Additionally boat service is available up and down river from the Strand in Old Town.

Huntington Metro Station (normally just called "Huntington") is the last stop on the southern end of the Yellow Line. The south mezzanine of Huntington station is built into a hillside creating a unique panoramic view of Alexandria. The high rise along the tracks is the Midtown Alexandria Station.

Because of the hill, the station is elevated high above Huntington Avenue, but located below grade at North Kings Highway. The station is accessible via escalator access and via an interesting funicular elevator.

The lower entrance to the Metro is on Huntington Avenue at the foot of the Huntington Club. The bridge in this picture is the metrorail. The bus is one of many that use the Metro as a hub. Unlike many metro stations in Northern Virginia, Huntington has over 4,400 parking spaces accessible from both entrances. Because the parking is ample, many Huntington Club residents drive to Huntington and park in commuter garages.

Interstate 395 doesn't have 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.

I am one of the few people who are from here who are actually from here.  That is to say I was born in Fairfax and have lived much of my life in Northern Virginia. 

When I got out of the Army and moved back from Northern Virginia, for a time I worked as a government contractor at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which is located at L'Enfant Plaza in Washington DC.  As you may know, parking is pricey and limited at L'Enfant, so the Metro was my best choice for commuting.

Originally, I lived out in the exburbs and would drive the Vienna Metro Station at the end of the Orange Line and then ride the Orange Line to L'Enfant Plaza. It was a long and tiresome commute and I knew I had to move in closer. So I resolved to buy a home much closer to the Metro. 

That's when reality hit my budget.  Yes, I could afford housing near the Vienna Metro, but what I could afford was not up to the standard of what I really wanted to buy. I found the same, very high prices, all along the Orange Line. But I also had an epiphany as I was jostling to work today. I suddenly realized that it's not how far you ride on the Metro, it's how many stops you make. The Orange Line seemed to stop every three blocks. But the Yellow Line and the Blue Line ...

Well, both of these lines cruise quickly out of DC and then into Old Town.  I found that the housing at the end of the Yellow Line fit my budget and my expectations quite nicely.  So that's where I bought and bought and again and remain to this day. Since that time, Old Town, especially in the Carlyle District, has grown up quite a bit, but around Huntington and the neighborhoods of New Alexandria, one can still find neighborhoods that fit the budget and fill the bill quite nicely.  I think there are also a lot of great neighborhoods off the Blue Line, but my personal preference is to be a little closer to the city.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, formerly Washington National Airport, is on the Potomac across the river from Washington DC. Along with Baltimore Washington International and Dulles International, Reagan National is one of three major airports serving the Washington Metro area. Reagan National is easily my favorite of the three airports for a number of reasons.

Dulles and BWI are massive sprawling airports with shuttle buses and mobile lounges. Reagan National barely has enough room for the runway. I always like smaller airports. They feel like they are scaled to human beings. There is plenty of security at National, but it seems to move along more smoothly than Dulles or BWI.

Dulles and BWI are outside the Beltway at the periphery of the Washington Capitol Area.  Reagan National is at the heart of everything, wedged at the confluence of DC, Alexandria and Arlington.  For me, it's a long drive just to get to BWI or Dulles, but Reagan National is here, and it's accessible by Metro. Reagan National is a station on both the Yellow and Blue lines.

Extended parking is available at Dulles or BWI, but on the shuttle bus, the ride from the parking lot to the terminal seems like a mile or more.  At Reagan National, extended parking is at my house.  Because instead of taking a shuttle, I can take the Metro to the airport.

The runway is a short at Reagan National and it launches planes up over GW Parkway and at the Washington Monument, requiring a steep climb and a hard left on take off. Some folks find this terrifying, but I have to admit I love it.  I know it's a safe path, because planes take off here day and night, so I sit back and enjoy the abrupt take-off and turn.

Reagan National is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week, although many ticket counters and restaurants in the airport close during off-hours. Reagan National is located within the Commonwealth of Virginia, but it has a Washington DC address to identify the airport's location more easily for travelers.

The Perimeter Rule and the High Density Rule affect flights at Reagan National. Under the Perimeter Rule, nonstop aircraft flights are limited to a range of 1,250 miles or less. In 2000, Congress permitted the FAA to allow six round-trip flights to points outside the perimeter. The High Density Rule (or "Slot" rule) limits the number of landings or takeoffs allowed in an hour. The rule affects Reagan National because of the Airport's limited airfield capacity.

Reagan National is located in Arlington County near/in Crystal City. It is most easily accessed from the George Washington Parkway. There are a good many condos and homes in the Crystal City area and they're all just a metro stop away from Reagan National.  The take-off and approach to Reagan National is down the Potomac, so that area residents get very little noise or fly-over from the jets at Reagan National.

To search area real estate contact Will Nesbitt at 703 765 0300 or use one of the handy links below.

• For sale --- Live data on all condos for sale in 22202 zip code.
• For rent --- Live data on rentals in 22202 zip code.

• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale less than $500,000 in 22202 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale from $300,000 to $700,000 in 22202 zip code.
• Homes for sale --- All homes for sale over $650,000 in 22202 zip code.

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 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 are a limited number of priority seats that are reserved for senior citizens and disable 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."

Richmond Highway Express, nicknamed "REX" is a bus route operated by the WMATA (the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) in partnership with Fairfax County, the City of Alexandria, the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Federal Government. The REX is a limited stop express bus that serves the Richmond Highway corridor. Before the REX, riders from Fort Belvoir had many stops to make along Richmond Highway enroute to Huntington Metrorail Station and to the King Street Metrorail Station.

REX buses operate every 15 minutes in both directions on Richmond Highway during weekday rush hours. During non-rush hours and on Satuday the REX comes through every 30 minutes. Then on Sunday the bus only operates every 60 minutes. Buses operate between 5:30 AM and 10:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM on Sunday.

The REX uses special technology which allows REX buses to sustain green lights in order to move more quickly up and down Rt. 1. The REX bus has low-floor buses for quicker boarding and SmartCard for quicker paying. In addition the REX has only a limited number of stops:

• King Street Metro (Alexandria)
• Dulaney Street/PTO (Alexandria)
• Eisenhower Avenue (Alexandria)
• Kings Highway
• Beacon Center
• Lockheed Boulevard
• Arlington Drive
• Belford Drive South
• Ladson Lane
• South County Center
• Frye Road
• Lukens Lane
• Sacramento Drive/Cooper Road
• Old Mill Road/Mt. Vernon Memorial Highway
• Dewitt Hospital (Fort Belvoir)
• Langfitt Loop (Fort Belvoir)
• 16th Street & Belvoir Road (Fort Belvoir)
• Jackson Loop (North) & Gunston Road (Fort Belvoir)

REX passengers may transfer at any Richmond Highwaystop to Fairfax Connector routes, and may transfer at Huntington and King Street Metro stationsto rail service as well as other local bus service such as Alexandria’s DASH.

To stand-out from other Metrobuses and other area bus lines, REX busses are purple-blue with a golden yellow logo featuring the image of a running lion. The lion references the three lions emblazoned on the Fairfax County seal, which references the family crest of Lord Fairfax. Bus stop signs use the same color scheme, and stand out among the other bus stops along Route 1.

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.