Agreement to turn Fairfax County Government Center parking into affordable housing to be formalized

The county’s plan to convert parking lots at the Fairfax County Government Center in Fairfax is nearing fruition.

The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority will hold a public hearing tonight (Thursday) on its agreement with Lincoln Avenue Capital to build roughly 275 units at the parking lot, otherwise known as the Residences at Government Center II.

The meeting, set for 7 p.m., focuses on a proposal to redevelop the 4.5-acre property, which would be located at the intersection of Government Center Parkway and Post Forest Drive.

Units would be spread out across two buildings for individuals earning a low-to-moderate income. A mix of one or two-bedroom units is proposed, with most one-bedroom units at 60% of the Area Median Income. The project has units aimed at 30, 50, and 60% of the AMI, according to the proposed agreement.

“The word that best describes our development plan is ‘connection.’ Our proposal facilitates connection, by creating an environment that brings people together,” the agreement states.

In addition to the two five-story buildings with underground parking, the developer Lincoln Avenue Capital plans to build a 15,000-square-foot hall called Fairfax One. The hall is designed for the community, including a childcare facility that would provide access to reduced prices for on-site residents.

A public plaza with tables and benches is planned near the hall, a nod to the county’s One Fairfax racial and social equity policy.

Once constructed, the residential buildings will be transferred to FCHRA. Lincoln Avenue Capital will be allowed to pursue the land use approvals necessary for the project following the agreement’s finalization.

The developer plans to contribute funds to support the local community.

“Our investment in the local community doesn’t end when construction is completed and families have moved into their new homes,” the report states. “To prove that, LAC is glad to offer an annual contribution of $50,000.00 to resident services programs at this property.”

The development team expects to complete construction in February 2026.

Here’s more on how to take part in the public hearing:

Live audio and public testimony of the meeting may be accessed by dialing 1-877-402- 9757 and entering the code: 1789207. Residents wishing to speak are encouraged to contact Avis Wiley by phone at 703-246-5152, TTY 711, or by email at Avis.Wiley@fairfaxcounty.gov to indicate their desire to participate.

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved the transfer of the 1,300-space parking lot to the FCRHA in late January last year. The site is within walking distance of the planned future extension of Metro’s Orange Line from Vienna to Centreville.