Politics & Government

Harris Teeter: Falls Church Residents Chime in on Proposal

Some residents raised concerns about congestion, but others applauded the potential increase in shopping, dining in the area.

Falls Church residents and business owners voiced their varying positions for or against a project that would bring a Harris Teeter to the city.

At Wednesday night’s council meeting, Winter Hill community resident Carl Anderson explained the apartments included in the development would bring more congestion to the area. Anderson told council they’re sacrificing the city’s future for short-term gains.

David Tax, owner of Clare & Don’s Beach Shack and Mike’s Deli, said a Harris Teeter in the city would bring more foot traffic to the city.

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“I think it will keep people in the area,” Tax said. “If the people are staying in the area, they’ll shop and eat in the area.”

In a rare move, council voted in their last work session to move the Rushmark Properties LLC project to the city’s boards and commissions and open the item up for public comment in Wednesday’s meeting. Council will hear back from the boards and commissions at their May 13 meeting when a final decision on the project could be given. The idea of bringing the supermarket chain to the city was announced to the public in October. The project not only includes a Harris Teeter, it will include other retail stores could have an estimated net fiscal impact of $22 million of 20 years.

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The project would also include 282 apartments — 265 market rate apartments and 17 designated for affordable housing.

Rushmark needs a special exception to build the mixed-use structure. Structures built in the city cannot exceed 75 feet high. The project requires at least a 90-foot tall structure.

What do you think? Should the city still pursue the Harris Teeter project? Will it be more harm than help? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.


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