Residents Critique Arlington's First Residential Project Near Bolsom Wetland Park

The Arlington County Board meeting on July 19, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding a proposed residential project near Bolsom Wetland Park. Concerns were raised about the project's environmental impact and its alignment with sustainability goals.

A speaker criticized the project for lacking biophilic design elements and sustainability features. They highlighted that only 25% of the roof space would be utilized for green initiatives, such as solar panels. The speaker expressed worry that nighttime lighting from the building would disrupt local wildlife, particularly insects, which could affect their reproduction.

The speaker also pointed out that this would be the first large residential building constructed near a natural area in the county, urging the Board to set a precedent for responsible development. They recommended that lease agreements for residents include conditions to minimize light pollution by keeping windows covered at night.

Further concerns were raised about the landscaping plan, which was criticized for not including native plant species essential for local wildlife, particularly monarch butterflies. The speaker urged the Board to require the planting of common milkweed, a crucial plant for monarchs, in the project's bioretention areas.

Additionally, the width of tree trenches along Fairfax Drive was questioned, as they were found to be narrower than recommended, potentially jeopardizing the health of the trees. The speaker suggested reducing the width of a nearby shared-use path to protect the trees and emphasized the need for native flowering plants in all tree trenches to support pollinators.

In conclusion, the discussions highlighted the need for the project to incorporate more environmentally friendly practices and to ensure that it aligns with Arlington County's sustainability commitments. The Board will need to consider these recommendations as they move forward with the project.