Office-to-Residential Conversion on Princess Street
Alexandria
Summary
The city is updating zoning rules and approving specific projects to turn empty office buildings into apartments. This helps tackle high office vacancy rates while adding much-needed housing in walkable areas.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 22, 2026.
Impact analysis
Generates $41,395 for the Housing Trust Fund from the Washington Street conversion alone while revitalizing dead commercial corridors.
Downtown property owners with vacant office stock, prospective renters seeking housing, and local businesses benefiting from increased foot traffic.
Some residents worry about the permanent loss of daytime commercial activity and increased pressure on neighborhood infrastructure.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Planning Commission Public Hearing — June 22, 2026
The commission supported converting a vacant office building into four townhouses, helping bring new residents into the Old Town area while navigating tight site constraints and historic district reviews.
Planning Commission Public Hearing — January 6, 2026
The city is updating zoning rules and approving specific projects to turn empty office buildings into apartments. This helps tackle high office vacancy rates while adding much-needed housing in walkable areas.
Related development
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