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Fairfax City outlines Blenheim Boulevard multimodal redesign, eyes construction next year
Summary
City staff updated the Fairfax City Council on the Blenheim Boulevard multimodal improvement project, describing finalized design features (lane configuration, two‑way cycle track, turn lanes, Ridge Avenue roundabout), tree impacts and a right‑of‑way program that has settled 20 of 29 private offers with nine parcels potentially requiring certificates of take.
Wendy Sanford, Fairfax City transportation director, told the City Council on June 3 that the long‑running Blenheim Boulevard project is moving into the final phases of design and right‑of‑way acquisition. "We are almost through with right of way acquisition and looking to start construction next year," Sanford said.
Consultant Mark Gunn of RDA described the approved typical section: "one lane in each direction, curb and gutter on each side…on the west side of the road, there'll be a separate two‑way bicycle facility along with a separate sidewalk." The design retains many existing turn lanes and adds new left‑turn lanes at select intersections (Sherwood, Daniels Run, Old Post and Great Oaks Drive). A roundabout at Ridge Avenue is included to address existing U‑turning and pedestrian crossing difficulties.
Staff emphasized efforts to limit private‑property impacts. Sanford said the team is using leftover or excess right‑of‑way where possible and has prioritized construction within city or publicly‑owned property before considering private acquisitions. The project requires right‑of‑way easements or acquisitions from 36 properties; staff reported that of 29 private offer packages, agreements have been reached on 20 and nine remain that could require certificates of take. "We will be coming to you in June to ask you for that approval to file a certificate of take," Sanford said.
Tree impacts and landscaping were a key point in the presentation. The project team said they emphasized tree preservation where feasible and that replanting plans exceed replacement of trees in good or fair condition, but acknowledged significant removals along the Fairfax High School frontage; an urban forester and project arborist are guiding preservation measures.
Utilities will be relocated as a near‑term step. Gunn said Dominion Energy will move utilities along the Fairfax High School frontage this summer "after school lets out" and that minimizing overhead pole relocations helped reduce additional tree loss.
Public engagement and placemaking were also highlighted. Staff described multiple open houses, property‑owner meetings and a June 2023 public hearing; a branding and placemaking effort led to a Blenheim Boulevard identity and proposed mobility hubs (bus stops, bike/scooter corrals, bike share) at locations including Fairfax High School and Layton Hall.
Staff estimate the project at approximately $30 million and said funding to match is in place. They said construction advertisement is planned next summer with a construction award expected in fall 2026, noting that the city will seek to time utility relocation to school break windows.
The council asked follow‑up questions about stormwater erosion controls, sidewalk and parking impacts for a few properties, maintenance responsibility for a proposed outdoor classroom (Sanford said school staff would do day‑to‑day housekeeping while structural maintenance would be the city's responsibility) and the timeline for certificates of take. Sanford and the city attorney described the condemnation process as a last resort and said negotiations continue for as many parcels as possible.
The council did not take formal action at the work session; staff said specific authorizations (including a request to file certificates of take on remaining parcels) will be brought to council at upcoming meetings.
