
Fairfax County, Va. –– The future of south Fairfax may lay in the success of its destinations, like Woodlawn Plantation, Gunston Hall and Mt. Vernon.
These keystone locations are what have attracted new hotels like Hampton Inn and Spring Hill Suites to U.S. 1 corridor, planners say.
And with their proximity to Washington these destinations may entice military members and their families to relocate to south Fairfax as part of the Defense Base Realignment and Closure, or BRAC.
“We’ve seen places like the Lorton Arts Center continues to develop and be a cultural center to our area. And they still have plenty of room and plans to expand there,” said Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation spokesman Tony Fontana.
Next month, SFDC will hold their first Retail Trends and Opportunities seminar focusing business in the Richmond Highway corridor.
The panelists for the event include a representative from the company that owns the 4-million square foot retail shopping mall, Beacon Center, on U.S. 1 – Senior Vice president of Retail Development for Saul Centers John Collich. It will also include the Principal of the Potomac Development Group Tom Maskey, and SFDC Board of Directors member Bruce Leonard.
The gathering aims to show the shift in marketing from the “baby boom” generation to the “X and Y” generation, said Fontana.
Redevelopment on the Richmond Highway will be centered around walk able town centers, differing from the old strip mall approach –– a form of construction in which many retailers say they have over marketed themselves in, said Fontana.
“We always encourage new development in the area, much like what Woodbridge has done with the Wegmans and the town center there. But some retailers feel they have over-retailed themselves and may not want to build additional locations,” said Fontana.
As part of BRAC, Ft. Belvoir stands to gain an additional 20,000 new federal employees and military members, as well as their families.
The seminar will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. April 13, at 5821 Richmond Highway in Alexandria, and advance registration is required.
Recent Stories

A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.

Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and