Alexandria, Va. – The City of Alexandria is honored to announce that its AlexWest Small Area Plan has been awarded the 2025 Virginia Plan of the Year Award by the Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA), the state’s leading organization for professional planners. 

Selected from among top plans submitted by jurisdictions across Virginia, the Virginia Plan of the Year Award honors the best planning document of the year. The AlexWest Plan was selected as a model of thoughtful, inclusive, and action-oriented urban planning. The Plan of the Year Award recognizes the City’s innovative, community-focused approach to shaping the future of Alexandria’s West End.  

“This award is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our City’s commitment to inclusive growth, equity, and sustainability,” said Mayor Alyia Gaskins. “The AlexWest Plan shows what’s possible when we put people at the center of the planning process. We’re proud to be recognized for a plan that reflects the voices of our residents and a bold vision for the future.” 

The APA Awards Committee praised the Plan’s clear and accessible land use framework, grounded in extensive public engagement and a strong commitment to equity and design excellence. The committee also highlighted the Plan’s robust and realistic implementation roadmap, which translates long-term vision into achievable steps and measurable outcomes. 

Andrew Hopewell, Virginia American Planning Association (APA) President, added, "The AlexWest Plan is an outstanding example of community-driven planning. It is a forward-thinking, practical, and holistic plan that other communities across the Commonwealth can draw inspiration from." 

The success of the Plan reflects a true collaboration shaped by the expertise and dedication of City staff, guidance from the Planning Commission and City Council, and invaluable input from residents and stakeholders throughout the West End. 

To learn more about the AlexWest Small Area Plan and its development, visit the AlexWest project website.