In the fall of 2016, APAH was selected to partner with the American Legion Post 139 on the redevelopment of their 1.3-acre site in Virginia Square. In transforming the property, Post 139 members saw an opportunity to revitalize their services to veterans and provide critically needed affordable homes. APAH was selected because of its demonstrated commitment to the community, a common focus on mission, and a strong track record of successfully implementing public-private partnerships and complex rezoning.

APAH will purchase the site from the American Legion and hopes to develop approximately 150 affordable apartments and build a new 6,000 square foot home for Post 139. The Legion plans to use proceeds from the land sale to support their new facility and strengthen their programs, while APAH hopes to reserve some of the affordable homes for veterans and their families.

In order for the project to move forward, APAH first needs the County to rezone and increase the site’s density. In 2016, the County established a a working group to review APAH’s application in conjunction with a larger land area at Washington Boulevard and Kirkwood Road (see right). We anticipate approval for a Special General Land Use Plan Amendment by the end of the year. Once approved, APAH will be able to move ahead in the site plan review, engaging with the public on decision-making processes, and securing financing for the project.

 

Update

APAH is pleased to announce that the County Board approved the adoption of the Special GLUP Amendment at their November 18th meeting! APAH and the Legion are now able to move forward in design development and financial structuring of the project.

We invite you to regularly visit our Upcoming Projects page for updates on the American Legion redevelopment.

 

Did You Know:

• There are nearly 50,000 homeless veterans sleeping on America’s streets on any given night.
• Arlington County was one of the first jurisdictions in the nation to achieve Functional Zero: our community never has more veterans experiencing homelessness than it can house in an average month. 
• APAH’s American Legion redevelopment will address the need for safe, affordable housing.