As discussions continue on the first block of The Ox Fairfax, Ox Hill Companies is starting to craft a plan for a second block of the mixed-use development, which could transform the historic heart of Old Town Fairfax.
The Fairfax City Council will get a briefing this evening (Feb. 4) on a concept plan for “Block B” of The Ox. Submitted last October, the proposal calls for a six-story residential building with 240 units on a 2-acre site at 4021 and 4031 University Drive.
Bounded by Sager Avenue, East Street, South Street and University Drive, the building would include 10,000 square feet of retail and 4,000 square feet of office space on the ground floor. About 300 parking spaces would be provided, as well as a pool area for residents.
A bank and office building constructed on the site in the early 1970s would be razed to make way for the new development.
The proposed development would be on the east side of University Drive across from Ox Hill’s planned “Block A” of The Ox Fairfax, which envisions a performing arts center, a hotel, conference center, art gallery and retail and office space on a 3.58-acre site at 4020 University Drive and 4029-4031 Chain Bridge Road.
The Ox Fairfax Block A is still moving through Fairfax City’s planning process.
For the Block B project, city officials will need to approve a lot-consolidation plan, special-use permit, special exceptions and a certificate of appropriateness addressing the architecture and landscaping.
The developer will need to adhere to the city’s affordable dwelling unit ordinance, which requires 6% of the units in new multi-family buildings to be dedicated as affordable housing. The units would be reserved for households earning up to 70% of the area median income if they’re for purchase or up to 60% if they’re for rent.
In a memo on the Block B proposal for council members, city staff say the proposal’s architectural designed “will complement the area’s historic style.”
Staff also recommend undergrounding utilities on the site, while flagging the building’s height and the potential for traffic queues at the entrances as possible issues that have been raised with the developer, who is currently looking for feedback before submitting a formal application.
