Housing Commission supports Hotel Pentagon site plan amid community concerns in Arlington

In a vibrant gathering at Arlington County's city hall, community members and officials convened on April 5, 2025, to discuss the proposed redevelopment of the Hotel Pentagon site, a project that has sparked both enthusiasm and concern among residents. The meeting highlighted the delicate balance between development and community needs, particularly in the historically significant Green Valley neighborhood.

As the discussions unfolded, Mr. Benson, a representative from Eco Action Arlington, proposed a "mini forest" approach to address community concerns about fallen leaves and branches affecting the nearby cemetery. This suggestion reflects Arlington's tradition of community involvement, encouraging local residents and organizations to help maintain the area.

Katie Wenger, representing the Housing Commission, voiced strong support for the redevelopment, which promises over 500 market-rate housing units and nine committed affordable units, alongside a $2 million contribution to the Affordable Housing Investment Fund. However, she acknowledged the apprehensions of Green Valley residents regarding the integration of the new development into their neighborhood. Wenger urged collaboration with local groups to ensure the project honors the community's history and culture.

Public comments revealed a spectrum of opinions. Some residents expressed frustration over the existing blighted motels on the site, advocating for the redevelopment as a necessary improvement. Others, however, raised serious concerns about the project's potential impact on traffic, community cohesion, and the adequacy of affordable housing provisions. Cicely Whitfield Johnson, a long-time resident, emphasized the need for the county to genuinely engage with the voices of historically marginalized communities, arguing that the current plans do not adequately reflect the needs of Green Valley.

The meeting also saw calls for a pause in the approval process to allow for further community dialogue. Frederick Craddock, a resident, highlighted the need for the county board to mediate between divergent community views and ensure that the development aligns with the broader goals of equity and sustainability.

As the meeting progressed, the historical significance of the Lomax AME Zion Church, adjacent to the proposed site, was a recurring theme. Several speakers, including Reverend Doctor Monica Hargrove and Brenda Cox, underscored the church's legacy and the potential negative impacts of the development on its congregation and the surrounding community.

The Arlington County Board faces a pivotal decision that will shape the future of Green Valley. With passionate voices from both sides of the debate, the outcome will not only determine the fate of the Hotel Pentagon project but also reflect the county's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement in its development strategies. As the board prepares to deliberate, the community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution that honors both progress and preservation.