Council approves South Alfred Street rezoning and DSUP for affordable housing; residents assured right of return

Alexandria City Council voted Dec. 13 to approve the rezoning and development special-use permit for the redevelopment of the South Alfred Street site, a project advanced by Alpha Street Baptist Church and community builders to create new affordable housing with a relocation plan for current residents.

Applicant Mary Catherine Gibbs and representatives from the community builders and Alpha Street Baptist Church described the project as the first of several redevelopment efforts aimed at adding affordable units in the South Patrick/Old Town West area. Staff and the applicant said the project meets the South Patrick Street affordability strategy and includes a draft relocation plan; the developer committed to a third-party relocation consultant and a right-of-first-refusal for displaced residents to return to new units.

Staff noted construction details: the project includes one level of below-grade parking because of groundwater considerations, and the affordable units will include a mix of deeply affordable 30% and 40% AMI units. Council members highlighted the importance of preserving deeply affordable units and praised the partnership with the faith community.

Outcome: The rezoning (2025-0004) and DSUP (202510022598) were approved by roll-call votes. Councilmembers thanked the applicant and the faith and community partners for advancing the project.

Why it matters: The project adds 88 new homes in a priority area for affordability, with a notable share at deep subsidy levels and rights for current residents to return.

What happens next: Staff and the developer will finalize the relocation plan as construction planning proceeds.