Board approves $475,000 renovation and new name for small Crystal City park, citing safety and business corridor benefits
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Summary
The County Board approved a use permit and a renaming to "23rd Street Plaza" for a small park at 501 23rd Street South; the $475,000 TIF-funded renovation adds lighting, seating, and new surfacing, and drew strong support from restaurant owners and the National Landing BID, which contributed $49,999 toward lighting.
The Arlington County Board on Nov. 18 approved a use permit and the official renaming of a small county-owned park at 501 23rd Street South to "23rd Street Plaza," clearing the way for a renovation budgeted at $475,000 and funded from tax increment financing for National Landing.
Bethany Heim of the Department of Parks and Recreation said the project will replace existing surfacing, add seating, upgrade lighting for safety and livability, and include new trees and landscaping. The National Landing Business Improvement District contributed $49,999 specifically to add lighting after community input called for improved visibility.
Local business owners welcomed the investment. Freddie Lutz, owner of Freddy's Beach Bar and Restaurant on 23rd Street, called the space a neglected gateway to Restaurant Row and said improved lighting and design would make the corridor safer and more inviting. Robert Mandel of the National Landing BID said the small but visible plaza will strengthen the corridor for patrons and businesses.
The Board approved the staff recommendation to accept the use permit and to officially name the space 23rd Street Plaza; DPR will move to design and permitting and expects construction to follow the county permitting process.
What to watch: DPR will finalize permitting and construction timing; TIF-restricted funds must be spent within the National Landing boundary.
