This study is now complete. The Final Study Report and appendices are provided below under the Study Reports section.
Background Information
The Lower King Street Multi-modal Feasibility Study was requested by the Alexandria Waterfront Commission to identify impacts to converting the 100 block of King Street (King Street between Union Street and Lee Street) to a pedestrian plaza accessible to the public to enjoy as a meeting and gathering place, and for dining, shopping, and a range of programmed activities. The study analyzed traffic and circulation improvements, operational and maintenance needs, an implementation timetable and process, and budgetary requirements. The study was coordinated with a separate project being conducted by the City that is examining the closure of the Unit block (between the Strand and Union Street) of King Street. A key goal of the scope of work was to highlight the 100 block of King Street as an important gateway for those arriving in Old Town via the water and as the gateway to a revitalized 21st century Waterfront for those travelling east along King Street. The Lower King Street Multi-modal Feasibility Study boundary extends from the Queen Street on the north, the waterfront on the east, Duke Street on the south, and Fairfax Street on the west. The study includes an analysis of the following categories:
• Vehicular circulation
• Pedestrian circulation
• Bicycle circulation
• Trolley access
• Tour/Charter bus circulation
• Loading access
• Private automobile passenger pick up/drop off
• Valet parking
• On-street parking
• Parking garage access
• Emergency vehicle access
Schedule
The Lower King Street Multi-modal Feasibility Study began in January 2014, and was completed in early 2015.
Civic Engagement
The project civic engagement process included input from citizens, City staff, businesses, community organizations, the Waterfront Commission, the Transportation Commission and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Group (BPAC). The following link provides an overview of the civic engagement that was conducted for the study. Additional information on the civic engagement activities is described below.
Business Walking Audit - March 10, 2014
A walking audit of the study area for business representatives of the 100 block and surrounding blocks was conducted on the morning of March 10, 2014, to allow business representatives to learn more about the project, and provide input on issues and concerns. Flyers were hand delivered to businesses within the Unit block, 100 and 200 blocks of King Street, and along Union, Lee and Fairfax Streets, inviting them to participate in the walking audit.
Focus Groups - March 10, 2014
Three separate focus group meetings were held on March 10, 2014. The focus groups included a Resident focus group, a business focus group, and a City staff focus group. Focus groups are smaller group meetings used to receive targeted feedback, including the identification of key issues and needs in the study area. The City conducted outreach to civic organizations, business groups, Commission members and others to participate in the focus groups.
Public Meeting #1 - March 20, 2014, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., City Hall, Sister Cities Room 1101
To supplement the community outreach process and engage the general public, a public meeting was held on Thursday, March 20, 2014 to provide information on the project, discuss shared street concepts, and receive input from the public. A presentation was held at the beginning of the meeting followed by table exercises to allow for input on issues and needs. The presentation can be found here.
Public Meeting #2 - May 29, 2014, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., City Hall, Sister Cities Room 1101
A public meeting was held on Thursday, May 29, 2014 to provide information on the project, present the development and evaluation of operational alternatives for the 100 block of King Street, and receive input from the public. The presentation can be accessed here. Following input from this public meeting, the City has updated the alternatives, including a new alternative (Alternative 5) to address issues related to parking. The updated alternative descriptions can be accessed here.New Link
Old Town Civic Association Meeting - November 12, 2014, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m., Lyceum
The Old Town Civic Association invited the City to provide an update on the project, including an overview of the current concepts. The presentation can be accessed here.
Waterfront Commission - December 16, 2014, 7:30 a.m., City Hall, Sister Cities Room 1101
Staff presented the results of the study to the Waterfront Commission on December 16, 2014. The presentation can be accessed here. The meeting minutes can be accessed here.
Study Reports
Lower King Street Multimodal Feasibility Study - Final Report
Appendix A - Civic Engagement Summary
Appendix B - Existing Traffic Conditions Technical Memorandum
Appendix C - Future Traffic Conditions Technical Memorandum
Appendix D - Construction Cost Estimate
Reference Materials
Waterfront Plan Implementation
Waterfront Commission
Union Street Corridor Study
Contact
For further information, please contact Steve Sindiong at 703-746-4047 or steve.sindiong@alexandriava.gov