The City of Alexandria’s Environmental Policy Commission (EPC) and AlexRenew, Alexandria’s wastewater authority, presented the 2025 Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award to William “Bill” Hendrickson on Sunday, April 27. A longtime Del Ray resident, Hendrickson has been a champion of open space, sustainability, and smart development in Alexandria for over 30 years.  

AlexRenew Board Member Dr. Moussa Wone presented the award to Hendrickson on behalf of the Ellen Pickering Award Selection Committee at the Del Ray Citizens Association’s Gardenfest, a community event that is part of Alexandria’s Earth Month activities. Jennifer Debias with the City of Alexandria’s Environmental Policy Commission, and Frances Pickering, representing the family of Ellen Pickering, also serve on the committee.  

Alexandria Vice Mayor Sarah Bagley and City Councilwoman Jacinta Greene both attended the event, where Bagley spoke about the importance of the award in acknowledging Alexandria citizens who help the City by advocating for responsible environmental policy and planning.  

Hendrickson launched the Del Ray House and Garden Tour in 1999, with proceeds funding tree planting and other green initiatives. Representing the Del Ray Citizens Association, Hendrickson played a key role in developing the Potomac Yard Plan, successfully advocating for a major new city public park and the replacement of a highway bridge over Route 1, which opened a large tract of land now used for soccer fields. 

In 2009, Bill served as a member of the committee that produced the City’s Urban Forestry Master Plan, which established the important goal of 40 percent tree canopy coverage across Alexandria.  

Hendrickson has been an active participant in meetings seeking community input into the city’s environmental plans, including the Open Space Plan, the Eco-City Charter, Environmental Action Plan, Green Buildings Plan, and the Four Mile Run restoration plan. His 30 years of advocacy also includes leadership roles with the Del Ray Citizens Association, Historic Alexandria Resources Commission, Potomac Yard Design Advisory Committee, and more. 

The Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award recognizes Alexandria community members who demonstrate a commitment to protecting the environment and preserving local natural resources. The annual award honors the late Ellen Pickering and her lifelong dedication to preservation of green space throughout Alexandria. Nominations are accepted each year starting in February and awarded in April as part of the City’s Earth Month celebration.  

Visit the Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award page for more information, including eligibility criteria, nominating requirements and the selection process.