Alexandria One Start
Process improvements to facilitate investment and economic development.
Page updated on February 24, 2026 at 8:46 AM
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What is Alexandria One Start?
One Start is a series of internal process improvements designed to facilitate investment and economic development in Alexandria. Ongoing efforts to improve and streamline the City's development review process enables development applications to advance more efficiently.
One Start: Why it Matters
- Private investment is necessary to realize the community’s vision, grow the local economy, and meet housing needs
- New investment supports citywide services by positively contributing to the City’s General Fund
- Property taxes generated exceed service costs by $0.59 to $0.93 per dollar generated
- Timely project reviews result in more value available for community benefits and earlier enjoyment of new amenities
One Start in Operation
Guided by community-informed small area plans and rigorous staff review, One Start provides transparent procedures and predictable timelines to move projects from concept to building permit issuance within a two-year framework—one year from concept to public hearing and one year from public hearing approval to occupancy.
Measuring and Monitoring Performance
Related Information
Questions?
View these overview slides and/or contact the Department of Planning & Zoning, 703.746.4666