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Alexandria council approves George Mason Elementary modernization after debate over trees, fence and parking
Summary
Alexandria City Council approved a development special-use permit to replace George Mason Elementary with a two‑story school, but added conditions directing staff and ACPS to move the proposed fence line and explore walkway designs to preserve healthy trees and reduce community impacts.
The Alexandria City Council on May 17 approved a development special‑use permit to demolish and rebuild George Mason Elementary School as a two‑story facility, expanding capacity and modernizing classrooms while drawing sustained criticism from residents over tree loss, fence placement and parking.
Supporters said the replacement school is part of a long‑planned capital investment to provide updated learning spaces, modern building systems and stormwater improvements. Planning staff told the council the proposal would exceed the city’s phosphorus‑reduction requirements, add on‑site bioretention, and include a net‑zero‑ready building design and expanded indoor and outdoor recreational amenities.
Opponents said the plan removes dozens of mature…
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