This is not exactly related, but I wanted to report to your readers that the Board of Supervisors adopted a good plan for Tysons Corner’s redevelopment. The plan will put density at the four rail stations, where people are most likely to walk to and from the train. That’s exactly the type of behavior we want to encourage. The supervisors rejected a poorly thought out request to extend unlimited FAR to one-half mile of the stations. That would have encouraged building farther from the stations to take advantage of cheaper land and would have resulted in more auto traffic. While people may walk farther on a sunny spring day with a light breeze, not every day fits that description. Many days are rainy, snowy or unbelievably hot and humid. We got a good plan for Tysons.

We neither support nor oppose the extension at this time. I also respect those who don’t like the HOT Lane concept and those who feel very frustrated with government. But claiming the HOT Lanes extension will increase traffic on Georgetown Pike is simply wrong when the extension prevents ingress to, and egress from, the Pike. Let’s debate the real issues.

This is, indeed, both good news and a promise kept. VDOT promised to open all lanes on Route 123 for the 2009 holiday season. After a rocky start, VDOT has established extremely good communications with the McLean area businesses and residents.

Keep in mind, however, that the same two lanes will again close in January and will remain closed until all the major construction is done. And, of course, construction problems for all would be less had the Commonwealth and Fairfax County insisted on a tunnel for Tysons.

Rob Jackson, President
McLean Citizens Association