Alexandria launches community-driven renovation plan for historic City Hall

The City Council of Alexandria convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss significant renovations and improvements to City Hall and the surrounding infrastructure. This meeting highlighted ongoing issues with the building's aging systems and the community engagement efforts surrounding the proposed renovations.

City officials reported persistent problems with leaks and mechanical failures in City Hall, which dates back to the 1940s. The council emphasized the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the building's infrastructure, including addressing concrete deterioration and water infiltration in the garage area. The urgency of these repairs was underscored by recent incidents of pipe leaks, prompting discussions about the long-term viability of the facility.

The council also provided an update on the project timeline, noting that an architectural firm, Leo A. Daly, had been selected to lead the renovation efforts. The construction manager contract was awarded this month, utilizing a "construction manager at risk" approach. This method allows for collaboration between the design and construction teams, which is particularly crucial for historic renovations where unforeseen conditions may arise.

Community engagement has been a focal point of the renovation process. The council reported extensive outreach efforts, including over 35 in-person and virtual events, which garnered thousands of individual feedback points from residents. This engagement aimed to gather insights on how the community interacts with City Hall and the adjacent market area. Feedback indicated a strong interest in maintaining the farmers market's presence during renovations and enhancing accessibility for all residents.

The council shared that initial concepts for the renovation have evolved through community input, with particular emphasis on creating a multi-use space that accommodates seasonal events and enhances the overall experience of the market area. The feedback process has led to the development of a combined concept that integrates the most favored features from earlier proposals.

As the project moves forward, the council is committed to ensuring minimal disruption during construction, particularly for market vendors. Plans are in place for temporary relocations to maintain the market's operations while renovations are underway.

In conclusion, the City Council's discussions on January 28 reflect a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by City Hall and its infrastructure. The emphasis on community engagement and feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the final design, ensuring that the renovations meet the needs of Alexandria's residents while preserving the historical significance of the site. The council anticipates returning for formal approval of the plans by July, marking a significant step toward revitalizing this key civic space.