We all know that 22202 is a great place to live.  But for many of us, the only backyard we have is our neighborhood. With all the new proposed development, we have an opportunity to reshape what our backyard looks like.  What do we love? What’s missing? What’s not working? Could our open spaces be greener or more attractive?  More inviting or accessible?     

We are inviting you to attend a workshop where you can share your experience, learn about existing and planned open spaces, and help develop a community vision for Open Space in 22202.

This is a part of a resident-led effort to ensure that planning for open space, as well as for community needs such as schools, transportation, and housing affordability, is holistic, responsive, and comprehensive. And we will begin to define priorities for Open Space in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). You can read more about the Livability 22202 Action Plan at http://livability22202.org/ 

The workshop will focus on discussing ideas for four topics, with walking tours in the morning and afternoon:

1. Developing a holistic approach to planning Crystal City Parks
2. Re-envisioning Virginia Highlands Park as the backyard for the Pentagon City community
3. Connecting residents to the natural world and enhancing biodiversity throughout 22202 green spaces
4. Exploring the possibility for a publicly accessible greenway from Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary along the railroad tracks to the southern end of Crystal City

The workshop is scheduled for February 22, from 9am to 3pm, at the Crystal City Marriott, 1999 Richmond Hwy (the corner of 20^th and Clark Bell).  An informal lunch is included. It will be interactive, with opportunities to hear from fellow residents who have different experiences and needs for Open Space.

Please join us if you can. Space is limited so sign up soon. Please indicate which of the four workshop topics you are most interested in, and we will do our best to include you in the group you prefer. But in any of the groups, you will bring your experience to the table and learn from others!