Planning Commission finds FY2026 capital plan consistent with Alexandria master plan

The Alexandria Planning Commission voted unanimously April 1 to find the city manager’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Program consistent with the city’s master plan.

Staff from the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Planning and Zoning presented the plan to the commission. Julia Taylor of OMB said the 10‑year CIP totals about $2.08 billion; the FY2026 funding level in the manager’s proposal is roughly $205.9 million. The plan combines multiple funding sources including grants, general‑fund supported debt and other capital funds.

Catherine Carraway of Planning and Zoning highlighted major projects programmed in the plan: continued funding for the Landmark Mall redevelopment and associated transit center access improvements; $57 million in grant funding for the Western Transitway; a Duke Street Corridor transit investment with roughly $87 million in secured grant funding; design funding for South Patrick Street pedestrian and bicycle improvements; Mount Vernon Avenue North complete streets work; and funding to continue waterfront flood mitigation design and future construction.

Commissioners asked staff about the breakdown of transportation funding, the status of grant commitments and whether grant amounts were secured or anticipated. Staff said several large transit and roadway components include significant grant support that has already been secured; smaller items rely on planned financing and prior‑year balances.

Vice Chair Stephen Koenig moved and the commission seconded a motion finding the proposed CIP consistent with the master plan; the motion carried 7‑0.

Why it matters

The CIP is the primary tool to implement the city’s small area plans and citywide master plan chapters. Commissioners said they welcomed continued funding for projects tied to adopted small area plans — in particular funding to advance a planned rec center in the Alex West small area plan, investments in Duke Street transit and the Western Transitway, and the waterfront flood‑mitigation work that will shape future development downtown.

Next steps

The Planning Commission’s advisory finding is forwarded to the City Manager and City Council as staff and elected officials refine the capital program in the budget cycle.

A copy of the city manager’s proposed CIP and the commission’s voting record are part of the public record for the April 1 meeting.