Reston

Live Fairfax: 5 iconic areas in Fairfax County you should know about

By Sponsor

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.

If you’re considering a move to Fairfax County or just curious about its diverse neighborhoods, I’ve got five iconic areas you definitely don’t want to miss.

Whether you’re into bustling town centers, tranquil suburban living, or active outdoor lifestyles, these neighborhoods have something for everyone.

 1. Reston — The Master-Planned Haven
Reston is a model of what a master-planned community should be! With miles of trails connecting to the W&OD Trail, it’s a paradise for runners, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Reston Town Center offers everything from great dining to entertainment options — Jackson’s is a must-visit! And with the Silver Line Metro, your commute is easier than ever. Housing options here vary from condos to townhomes and stunning single-family residences, each with its own architectural charm. Reston blends convenience and community seamlessly, making it a top choice for many. 

 2. Fairfax City — Charming and Quaint
Let’s talk about Fairfax City, my hometown! Living here offers that small-town feel with access to everything. Local shops, cozy cafe’s (yes, De Clieu Coffee, I see you!), and a vibrant community vibe make it special. The housing market is diverse, with single-family homes, townhouses, and some condo options sprinkled in. Plus, there’s so much growth happening — city planning is bringing more amenities our way. The accessibility to D.C., the Pentagon, and Tyson’s Corner is unmatched, adding a practical edge to this charming area. 

 3. Vienna — Community-Driven and Close-Knit
Vienna’s community spirit is like no other. From annual festivals to the historic charm of its old-town feel, it’s an area where neighbors truly become friends. The W&OD Trail cuts right through, perfect for outdoor lovers. And let’s not forget Vienna’s vibrant restaurant scene — many local spots have been around for decades! The housing is a mix of new builds and classic homes, giving the area a distinctive appeal. Townhouses here are spacious, offering excellent options for growing families or young professionals. 

 4. Great Falls — Luxurious and Serene
Great Falls is the epitome of luxury living. Known for its expansive homes and large, private lots, this area is perfect for those seeking tranquility. Yet, it still has a strong sense of community with festivals, events, and the breathtaking Great Falls Park right at your doorstep. Hiking trails and scenic waterfalls create a natural retreat without sacrificing accessibility to the city. It’s truly a place where luxury meets nature. 

 5. Falls Church — Historic and Accessible
Historic charm meets modern living in Falls Church. From its colonial roots to its lively farmer’s market, this neighborhood offers a unique blend of old and new. It’s ideal for those seeking a small-town vibe with big-city conveniences, thanks to two Metro stops and the W&OD Trail for active lifestyles. The housing market offers everything from historic homes to new builds, condos, and townhouses — there’s something for every style and budget. 

Fairfax County is full of hidden gems and iconic spots like these. Each area offers its own unique blend of history, community, and accessibility.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore the best of Fairfax County living!

5 Iconic Areas in Fairfax County You Should Know About

Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | Sharmane@mcenearney.com | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180

News

Another Flagship Carwash might be coming to Herndon

By Fatimah Waseem
Flagship Carwash is seeking to replace Dryclean Center at 1013 Dranesville Road in Herndon (via Google Maps)

Flagship Carwash is looking to open another location in the Herndon area, this time right by the Fairfax and Loudoun county border.

Earlier this month, the company submitted a development plan to Fairfax County seeking to rezone a portion of land at 1013 Dranesville Road from commercial and residential uses to strictly commercial uses.

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Countywide

Fairfax County increases taxicab rates for first time in a decade

By Acacia James
Fairfax Red Top Cab taxis parked at 11 Hillwood Avenue in Falls Church (via Google Maps)

Changes will be coming to taxicab rates and charges in Fairfax County.

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved a staff recommendation to permanently increase rates for the first time in a decade during a meeting on Tuesday (Sept. 10).

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Morning Notes for September 13, 2024

By FFXnow.com
A Fairfax Connector bus stops in the Vienna Metro station’s kiss-and-ride lot (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

Western D.C. Area Now in Drought — “Few locations in the D.C. area have seen more than a ground-dampening so far this month, and drought concerns are mounting yet again. The District has received just 0.02 inches of rain in September, while Dulles Airport hasn’t even received a trace.” [Washington Post]

Indian Restaurant Opens in Herndon — Maharani Palace Fine Indian Cuisine and Lounge, an “upscale Indian restaurant and banquet hall,” opened yesterday (Thursday) at 1030 Elden Street in the space previously filled by Mellow Mushroom. “Spice Holdings…is behind the new venture. This is the group’s first Virginia location.” [Northern Virginia Magazine]

Vienna Sidewalk Projects Approved — “The Vienna Town Council has approved two new sidewalk projects. With time running out for spending funds from the Maud Ferris Robinson Charitable Trust, Vienna Town Council members voted Sept. 9 to award” construction contracts for sidewalks on Frederick Street SW and Kingsley Road SE. [Gazette Leader]

Budweiser Horses to Appear at Frying Pan Park — “You’ve seen the Budweiser Clydesdales in Super Bowl ads, but now you can meet in person at Frying Pan Farm Park on Tuesday, Sept 17 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Grab a selfie with them and you’ll be a star at your next Super Bowl party.” [Supervisor Walter Alcorn/Twitter]

Repairs Starting Soon on Mason Neck Courts — “The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon be repairing the tennis court and basketball court at Mason Neck West Park. Weather pending, active construction is expected to conclude the second week of October 2024.” [FCPA]

Bird Advocates Warn About Light Pollution — “The Northern Virginia Bird Alliance, formerly known as the Audubon Society of Northern Virginia, is raising awareness about the impacts of light pollution on birds. DarkSky International is partnering with the National Audubon Society on a Lights Out [campaign] to protect migrating birds.” [Patch]

Taste of Annandale Offers Entertainment Preview — “The Taste of Annandale will feature a packed entertainment schedule all day. The Taste is a free community festival on Sept. 21, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., at 7200 Columbia Pike. The lineup hasn’t been finalized yet, but here’s a preview of the expected performers.” [Annandale Today]

It’s Friday — Expect mostly cloudy skies with a high of around 82. Friday night is anticipated to be partly cloudy, with temperatures dropping to a low of 64. [NWS]

News

Herndon Town Council looks for options to encourage affordable housing

By Fatimah Waseem
Herndon Town Councilmember Cesar del Aguila has proposed rezoning office buildings in Sugarland West Business Center and Sugarland Business Park II to allow housing (via Google Maps)

The Herndon Town Council is toying with the idea of rezoning several offices on Herndon Parkway in an effort to address a long-standing policy conundrum: the town’s lack of affordable or workforce housing.

Councilmember Cesar del Aguila suggested at a work session on Sept. 3 that the council should actively explore whether it is legally and logistically possible to rezone several areas along Herndon Parkway between Elden and Spring streets from office uses to mixed-use.

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Shiner Exteriors: Reliable roofing and excellent service!

By Sponsor
Shiner Exteriors

Is your roof starting to show signs of wear and tear, or is it time to refresh its look?

Shiner Exteriors, a trusted, family-owned business with over 43 years of experience, is here to help. Whether facing an aging roof, storm damage, or simply ready for a fresh look, Shiner Exteriors offers personalized solutions with a focus on quality and customer service, making them the top choice for Northern Virginia Homeowners.

Here’s what Joseph E, a recent customer, had to say about his roofing experience:

“Shiner Exteriors was the easy choice for replacing my roof and gutters after getting estimates from seven companies. The estimator was thorough, and knowledgeable, and educated me on what was needed and what my options were, but I never felt like he was pushing a sale or unnecessary upgrades.

The estimate they sent was the most detailed, and I had no worries about additional costs once the crew was on-site. They also helped me navigate getting a small insurance claim for weather damage to the metal parts. The roofing crew showed up 40 minutes early and got straight to work. These guys worked hard on a 95+ degree summer day and finished by 4 p.m. The gutters were done the next day with the same skill and efficiency.

On top of all this, Shiner was the least expensive among the companies that provided full quotes. Others were cheaper but left many things as ‘TBD’ based on what they would find during installation. I would, and already have, recommended Shiner Exteriors.”

Ready for a new roof?

Call Shiner Exteriors today at 703-560-7663 and receive up to $1,000 off your next roofing project. Visit our website at shinerexteriors.com for more details!

Contact Shiner Exteriors Today!

Legal Insider: Protecting veterans’ rights at the merit systems protection board under USERRA & VEOA

By Sponsor

This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.

By Melissa L. Watkins, Esq.

When someone performs uniformed military service, certain protections are granted when it comes to their seeking and performance of civilian federal employment. Two important sources of protection for veterans are the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA).

What is the USERRA?

USERRA is a federal law that protects military service members and veterans from employment discrimination on the basis of their service, allows them to regain their civilian jobs following a period of uniformed service, and ensures that they are not disadvantaged in their civilian careers because of their military service.

What is VEOA?

VEOA is a federal law that provides certain federal employees and applicants with a means of redress in the event that a federal executive agency violates the employee’s or applicant’s veterans’ preference rights. The Office of Personnel Management’s VetGuide provides a comprehensive list of campaigns and expeditions which qualify for veterans’ preference and insight on the types of veterans’ preference.

How to File an USERRA or VEOA Claim

A federal employee claiming a violation of USERRA may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), who will investigate the complaint and attempt to resolve the issue. Federal employees who believe their USERRA rights have been violated by an agency may alternatively (and often preferred) file an appeal directly with the MSPB. While there is generally no statute of limitations on USERRA claims, it is important to file them as soon as possible because those filed more recently will generally be viewed more credibly.

Under VEOA, before an individual can file a VEOA appeal with the MSPB, she/he must first file a complaint with the Secretary of Labor. After filing a complaint with the Secretary of Labor, an individual can pursue the case at the MSPB once 60 days has passed without a decision or within 15 days of receiving written notification from the Secretary of Labor that the Secretary has been unable to resolve the complaint. Unlike with USERRA, there is a deadline for filing a VEOA complaint with the Secretary of Labor. A VEOA complaint must generally be filed with the Secretary of Labor within 60 days of the VEOA violation.

Remedies for USERRA or VEOA Violations

If successful in an MSPB case based on either USERRA or VEOA, the following types of remedies are often available:

  1. Correction of any unlawful employment action taken or not taken (USERRA)
  2. Ordering the Agency to comply with the statute or regulation that was violated (VEOA)
  3. Repayment of any loss of wages or back-pay (both USERRA and VEOA)
  4. The award to a federal employee of reasonable attorney’s fees, expert witness fees, and other litigation expenses (both USERRA and VEOA)

Contact Us

Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in USERRA and VEOA appeals. If you need legal assistance regarding an USERRA or VEOA claim or another employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.

Countywide

Food insecurity on the rise in Fairfax County, affecting over a quarter of households

By James Jarvis
A shelf of food items in Western Fairfax Christian Ministries' food pantry (staff photo by Vivian Hoang)

Fairfax County is seeing a rise in food insecurity, with nearly 27% of households struggling to afford enough nutritious food, the Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) found in its 2024 Hunger Report.

Though food insecurity has increased across all income levels, the sharpest growth has been among middle-income households earning between $100,000 and $150,000 annually. For those families, the cost of living in Fairfax County and rising prices for essentials like housing and food have outpaced wage growth.

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Morning Notes for September 12, 2024

By FFXnow.com
The sun sets on “The Dancer,” a sculpture outside the City of Fairfax Police Station (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

D.C. Area to Get More EV Charging Stations — “A few dozen electric vehicle charging stations are coming into disadvantaged communities in Maryland and Virginia, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments announced.” Fairfax County and city will benefit from the nearly $4 million grant awarded to COG by the Federal Highway Administration. [WTOP]

Virginia Shares Respiratory Illness Data — “Tuesday, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) launched a new Respiratory Illness Dashboard, which replaces several older dashboards. This dashboard provides key insights into respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).” [VDH]

West Falls Development Prepares for Residents — “Phase One of the West Falls Development Project…is nearing completion,” developer Hoffman & Associates shared on Monday (Sept. 9). An apartment building has begun accepting tenant applications, while a condo building “celebrated a grand opening on Sunday after its condos went on sale in March.” [ARLnow]

Deer Management Debate Emerges in Vienna — Vienna Town Council member Charles Anderson suggested exploring ways to control invasive species, including deer, in the town’s monthly newsletter. At the council’s meeting on Monday (Sept. 9), he said he was surprised to receive “15 or so e-mails” in response, and some residents shared their opinions. [Gazette Leader]

FCPS Releases Family Survey Results — “The results of FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey are now available. A key finding showed that 92% of respondents say they ‘feel welcome’ at their child’s school, an increase from 89% in the 2021-22 survey…Thank you to the more than 26,000 parents and guardians who participated!” [FCPS]

FCPD Hosts Mental Health Conference — “The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) hosted a Public Safety Suicide Prevention Conference, drawing over 130 first responders from across the National Capital area. Held on World Suicide Prevention Day, the event highlighted the importance of mental health support for those on the front lines of public safety.” [FCPD]

Celebrate Moon Festival at Oakton Library — “Celebrate the Mid Autumn Festival (The Moon Festival) with Oakton library! Listen to stories and learn some unique Taiwan Moon Festival traditions. There will also be crafts and activities to celebrate the Moon.” The event will take place this Saturday (Sept. 14) from 3-5 p.m. [Fairfax County Public Library]

It’s Thursday — Patchy fog will clear by 9am, making way for a mostly sunny day and a high near 81, accompanied by an east wind of 3 to 8 mph. Thursday night will be partly cloudy as temperatures drop to around 63, with the southeast wind blowing at 3 to 6 mph. [NWS]

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