Beautification Commission
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Our Mission and Goals
The Alexandria Beautification Commission (ABC) was created by the City to advise City Council and citizens on all matters related to City beautification. Our goals include:
- Inspire beautification through an awards program.
- Promote environmental sustainability through collaboration and engagement with City Council, City staff, and private organizations.
- Educate the local community on beautification and sustainability best practices.
Join the Beautification Program
The Alexandria Beautification Commission is dedicated to upholding the values of Alexandria's citizens when it comes to enhancing the city's aesthetic appeal. Through coordination of various projects, we strive to promote and realize beautification efforts throughout our community. The Commission proudly hosts annual Alexandria Beautification Commission Awards to recognize outstanding contributions in the community.
Our meetings convene monthly on the second Thursday at 7:30 p.m., requiring an estimated commitment of approximately eight hours per month from our Commission members.
If you share our passion for enhancing the beauty of Alexandria, we warmly extend an invitation for you to apply and join our efforts. Learn more about the application process by visiting the Boards and Commissions page on the City of Alexandria's website.
Connect with Us
![RPCA Connect with Us Image 2](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2022-06/RPCAConnectWithUs.png?itok=OkNfjd2M)
Stay Informed
Stay in the loop about programs, special events, community meetings, and more by ensuring your information is up to date or subscribing to our eNews. Once registered, select Nature News and Recreation General News for the most up to date Beautification Commission information.
![RPCA Social Icons](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2022-06/RPCASocialIconsWebbox1920x1080.jpg?itok=USu_Kh5w)
Beautification News & Current Events
To stay current with all the latest beautification efforts and programs the City has to offer:
![RPCA Urban Forestry Notable Trees Webbox](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-09/RPCAUrbanForestryNotableTreesWebbox1920x1080.png?itok=mQhjE-r6)
Get Involved with ABC!
- Attend a Commission Meeting on the 2nd Thursday of the month at Charles Houston Recreation Center
- Apply to serve on the Commission
- Contact Us with Your Ideas!
Inspiring Beautification Through Awards
The Commission encourages citizens to achieve a more beautiful, and livable Alexandria through its awards program.
Nominations for the 2024 awards cycle opened on April 5, 2024. Revisit this page to submit your nomination(s).
Environmental Sustainability
Sustainable landscaping and green infrastructure are vital components of environmental sustainability. By using native and drought-tolerant plants, avoiding invasive species, managing runoff, and integrating green infrastructure, we can create landscapes that are both beautiful and beneficial to the environment. These practices not only conserve resources and protect biodiversity but also address significant environmental challenges like stormwater management and climate change mitigation. Through continued advocacy, education, and the sustainable development of underutilized land, our city can enhance its resilience and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.
Sustainable Landscaping
Sustainable landscaping integrates environmental consciousness into the design and maintenance of gardens and green spaces. It reduces water usage, enhances biodiversity, and minimizes pollution. It includes incorporating native plants, drought-tolerant plants, avoiding invasive species, and managing runoff and stormwater into your landscape plan.
Native Plants
Native plants are a cornerstone because they occur naturally in a particular region and have adapted to local climate and soil conditions over thousands of years. They require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides than non-native species. They support local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies essential for ecological balance. Typical lawns are planted with non-native turf grass, so it is useful to shrink lawns by planting native shrubs like Maple-leaved Viburnum and Virginia Sweetspire and flowering plants like Cone Flowers, Black-eyed Susan, and Milkweed (helps support monarch butterflies) that provide food or shelter to native insects and birds. Desirable trees include most Oaks, Red Maple, River Birch, Eastern Redbud, and Dogwood. Visit Plant NOVA Natives for more ideas and information.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
Drought-tolerant plants are another component of sustainable landscaping. These plants are adapted to survive with less water, making them ideal for times of drought. Incorporating these species reduces irrigation needs and strain on the water supply. Drought tolerant native plants for Northern Virginia are Coral Honeysuckle Vine, Poverty Oat Grass, Purple Love Grass, Northern Maidenhair Fern, Dwarf Goldenrod, Virginia Bluebell, and Fall Phlox.
Avoid Invasive Species
Avoid invasive species because they threaten biodiversity and ecosystem health. Non-native plants that spread rapidly outcompete local flora, and often lead to ecological disruption. By avoiding them, we protect the native plant communities and wildlife that depends on them. Examples of invasives often found in Alexandria are English Ivy, Bamboo, Wisteria, Porcelain-berry, Liriope, Bradford Pear, Japanese Maple, and Norway Maple.
Managing Runoff and Stormwater
Stormwater runoff, if uncontrolled, can cause erosion and flooding, and transport pollutants into storm drains, leading to water quality issues in streams and the Potomac River. Sustainable landscaping features capture the water, allowing it to slowly soak into the ground instead of flowing over it. Examples are permeable pavers, rain gardens, water barrels, and swales. Along with native ground covers, they stabilize soil and reduce runoff. Native groundcovers include Violets, Wild Strawberries, low growing native Phlox, and Green and Gold. Learn how to reduce your Stormwater Utility Fee.
Environmental Advocacy
Environmental advocacy is crucial to sustainable landscaping and environmental vitality. Advocates raise awareness, influence policy, and encourage community engagement. They organize educational campaigns about sustainable practices, lobby for laws to protect natural resources, support conservation initiatives and investments in sustainability.
Green Infrastructure
Green infrastructure is a network of natural and semi-natural systems that provides environmental, economic, and social benefits. Included are green roofs, solar panels, urban trees, and constructed wetlands. Green infrastructure enhances community resilience to environmental challenges like flooding and climate change. Green roofs can reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, absorb rainwater, and provide habitats for wildlife. Urban trees and green spaces provide respite for people and, by mitigating flooding, protect homes and businesses from water damage.
Climate Change
Climate change is mitigated by sustainable landscaping and green infrastructure. These practices will enhance carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Planting native trees, shrubs, and ground covers, and maintaining healthy soils sequester carbon, reduce lawn mower use, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Green infrastructure can help Alexandria adapt to impacts of climate change like increased temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events.
Community Needs
Community Needs are addressed when underutilized land is sustainably developed. Transforming it into green spaces or community gardens can enhance food security, improve mental and physical health, foster community engagement, build new skills, create green jobs, and stimulate our local economy. All these activities contribute to community well-being. Watch for announcements from your local citizens association and from the Alexandria Planning and Zoning Department.
City Services Related to Sustainability
Stormwater Utility Fee Credits and Grants
Take advantage of Alexandria’s stormwater utility fee credits and grants, including:
- For trees at least 1” caliper, residents can apply for a stormwater credit.
- Mature tree credit for native trees 12” wide.
- A conservation landscaping credit for areas at least 50 sq ft.
- No fertilizer pledge.
For questions and details, visit:
Stormwater Utility Fees & Credits for Residential Properties
Compost and Mulch Services
Learn more about Alexandria’s Curbside Food Waste Composting Pilot and other available composting programs here: https://www.alexandriava.gov/FoodWaste
For a limited time during the spring and early summer, the city offers mulch delivery to Alexandria residents. Find out more here: https://pub.alexandriava.gov/mulch/
Install a Rain Barrel
Find information on why you should install a rain barrel and future workshop dates.
Solar Energy Analyses
To use the Northern Virginia Solar Map to conduct a preliminary analysis of the solar energy potential for your home or business, visit www.novasolarmap.com.
Check out the City’s Solar Energy Panel Permit Checklist here: https://media.alexandriava.gov/docs-archives/code/info/solarenergypanelpermitchecklist.pdf
See federal tax incentives for home energy upgrades at https://www.energy.gov/save
Special Projects
Median Beautification & Sustainability
On Friday, June 15, 2018 the Alexandria Beautification Commission saw a year's worth of planning and working with the City of Alexandria come to fruition with the installation of native and sustainable plant material in three medians at the heavily trafficked intersection of King St., Quaker Ln and Braddock Rd. The Commission initiated the pilot median improvement project in 2017 to make the City’s medians both more attractive and more sustainable.
The Commission recommended the use of low maintenance, no mow areas in City medians that utilize native and sustainable shrubs and perennial plants. For the past year, the Beautification Commission has been working with the City of Alexandria’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Activities to develop a cohesive landscaping plan for the medians which they hope can serve as a model for beautification of medians throughout the City. Together, their efforts have resulted in a beautiful and well-designed sustainable public space at a busy intersection.
Educating the Community About Beautification Resources & Best Practices
The Commission strives to provide residents and businesses with the best information and resources possible, and here are key resources Citywide that you’ll find of interest:
NATIVE PLANTS TO NORTHERN VA
Are you interested in planting native in your garden or at your business? Visit Plant Nova Natives for a full listing of Alexandria/NoVA approved plants!
CITYWIDE RESOURCES
- City Landscape Guidelines
- Recommend a Tree Planting
- Alexandria Register of Notable Trees
- Environmental Action Plan 2040
- Eco-City Alexandria
- Earth Day
- Office of Energy Management
- Stormwater Best Management Practices
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS PROMOTING BEAUTIFICATION
Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation
Master Gardeners of Northern, VA
Get Involved!
MEETING INFORMATION
The Commission meets on the second Thursday of each month, at 7:30 pm., Charles Houston Rec Center, 901 Wythe St. For additional information, call Oscar Mendoza, Division Chief, at 703.746.4667.
APPLY TO SERVE ON THE COMMISSION
The Commission encourages all residents, whether new or having lived in Alexandria for years, to join our efforts to help beautify the City of Alexandria! This commission will give you a great way to meet new people, the opportunity to participate in the beautification of Alexandria, and to stay up to date in what's going on in your community. For a list of vacancies, to submit an application or for additional information, visit Boards & Commissions. For information on membership requirements, click here.
CONTACT US WITH YOUR IDEAS
The Commission wants to hear from the citizens of Alexandria! Have an idea for a new beautification project or need, please send a letter to Alexandria Beautification Commission, 2900-A Business Center Drive, Alexandria, VA. 22314.
Meeting Schedule
Press
ARTICLES WRITTEN BY THE COMMISSION
- Want to Plant a Small Tree in the Spring? (Zebra Press)
- You Can Beautify Your Property and Protect the Potomac River (Zebra Press)
- Ben Brenman Park is Worth a Visit in the Winter (Zebra Press)
- What You Need to Know About Snow Removal and Winter Weather Preparedness (Zebra Press)
2023 beautification AWARDS
2022 beautification awards
2018 Beautification Awards
Archived Meeting Information
- Archived Meeting information
2023 Residential Beautification Award Winners
Our 2023 Residential Beautification Award winners demonstrate how the creative use of non-invasive plants, native plants, sustainable approaches, and landscape architecture along with proactive maintenance delivers garden beauty, texture, and scale in an eco-friendly way. The winners inspire others to enhance the beauty of their properties and speak to the future of Alexandria's neighborhoods as environmentally sound and dynamic.
West End: 5466 Calhoun Ave
The stunning landscaping at 5466 Calhoun Avenue is abundant, grass-free, well-maintained, and sustainable, adding ecological beauty to the local area.
![Man and Woman Standing behind a yard sign with "2023 award winner" on it.](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/Lee%20%26%20Hal%20Johnson_5466%20Calhoun%20Ave_July2023_0.jpg?itok=CM3GMyDz)
West End: 3912 Taney Ave
The large crepe myrtles and other trees at 3912 Taney Avenue provide energy-saving shade. The ground coverings, flowers, and shrubs provide lovely colors and patterns in this lovingly maintained garden gem.
![woman standing in yard with award winner 2023 sign](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/3912_Taney_Ave_0.jpg?itok=Tx3acc9_)
West End: 3156 North Rosser St
A front drainage ditch, 3156 North Rosser Street, is filled with lovely plants and succulents that help disperse stormwater and reduce soil erosion while adding visual interest. The entire yard is alluring and cozy.
![woman standing in yard with award winner 2023 sign](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/Christine_Coker_3156_N_Rosser_St.jpg?itok=ke0jc8W7)
Central: 1501 Crestwood Dr
The virtually no-mow yard at 1501 Crestwood Drive supports pollinators and features a beautiful fence, various plants, rocks, and water-permeable paths.
![man standing in yard next to a sign that says award winner 2023](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/Ed_Garrity_1501_Crestwood_Dr_1.jpg?itok=dBWS6FMH)
Central: 310 Kentucky Ave
The lush yard at 310 Kentucky Avenue features walking sticks, tiered native plantings and stonework, creating an inviting entrance. The color scheme is well-balanced, and the shrubs create an illusion of a deeper landscape.
![man and woman standing on front stoop with sign that says award winner 2023](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/Photo310Kentucky.jpg?itok=-9WeL5TE)
Central: 308 Summers Dr
Certified wildlife habitat and monarch waystation distinguish the gorgeous outdoor space at 308 Summers Drive.
![picture of house with tree in front yard](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/308SummersDr.jpg?itok=5Md-jq8S)
East End: 911 Portner Pl.
After a recent renovation, a new owner at 911 Portner Place leveled the yard to improve surface irrigation, removed the grass, and created an oasis for the neighborhood. The front yard is a field of flowers of all varieties.
![image of plants in a yard with award winner 2023 in the front](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/911Portner.jpg?itok=l1eHU2nc)
East End: 534 N Columbus St
The front yard garden at 534 North Columbus Street attracts attention because it’s larger than most in Old Town and boasts idyllic hydrangea, evergreens, irises and more. A wrought-iron gate, curved stone walkway, gorgeous plants and Adirondack table and chairs complete the charming look.
![woman standing in side yard behind a sign that says 2023 award winner](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/Liz%20Fay_534%20N%20Columbus_award2_Aug2023.jpg?itok=SnumOUlf)
East End: 11 E Reed Ave
The beautiful lawn with trees and shrubs makes 11 East Reed Avenue shine in its locale. The stone border wall and iron fence add elegance that surprises and pleases. New trees will add plenty of shelter and food to the native fauna.
![front of house with 2023 award winner place in front of door](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-08/Photo%20for%2011%20E%20Reed_1.jpg?itok=rEYL27x0)
2023 Excellence in Architecture Award Winners
Our 2023 Excellence in Architecture Award winners implemented aesthetic improvements made through novel or creative architectural design practices. The winners also embraced a commitment to the art of architecture and sustainable design applications. All of our award winners efforts' make Alexandria a more creative and dynamic community.
Ferdinand Day Elementary School, 1700 North Beauregard Street
For an exceptionally creative and sustainable conversion of an old office building into a school adorned with color, art, and vegetation.
![ferdinanddayschool](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/40-69-Q121-Ferdinand_Day_School_building.jpg?h=d49ab01f&itok=EBjJIul7)
![planters at ferdinanddayschool](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/FerdinandDaySchoolPlanting.jpg?h=6b418787&itok=RFco8km6)
200 Lloyds Lane
For the clean lines, unique window panes, and minimalist design of a home surrounded by many native and sustainable plantings.
![200LloydsLane House](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/200%20Lloyds%20Lane.jpg?itok=NwZVyXRO)
Muse Old Town, 1201 North Royal Street
For anchoring the Old Town North Arts District in an inviting mixed-use community that blends modern and historical materials and architecture.
![The Muse N Royal St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/1201%20North%20Royal%20Street.jpg?itok=-AWmPLUe)
2023 Community Beautification Award Winners
Our 2023 Community Beautification Award winners demonstrated beautification of spaces that benefit the entire community through inspired design, a dedication to equity and accessibility, the installment of public art, and the application of sustainable techniques.
The Spire, 2875 North Beauregard Street
For providing affordable housing that is beautiful, ecological, and functional.
![2875 N Beauregard St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/2875%20N%20Beauregard%20S.jpg?itok=-2War_59)
Dale Street Community Garden, 65 Dale Street
For maintaining an exceptional space where the community can gather, plant, learn, and harvest sustainably together.
![65 Dale St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/65%20Dale%20Street.jpg?h=21c89d39&itok=riVLBliY)
The Platform Alexandria, 1100 North Fayette Street
For creating an inviting and inspiring park that replaces industrial space and parking lots with public art and lush space for leisure.
![1100 N Fayette St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/1100%20N%20Fayette%20St.jpeg?itok=s7rfUEbB)
2023 Commercial Beautification Award Winners
Our 2023 Commercial Beautification Award winners created more beautiful spaces through landscaping and color, have effectively utilized architectural and design elements, and have reinvented old, neglected spaces. Environmentally sustainable design practices and a commitment to ongoing maintenance were also demonstrated. These winners' efforts enhance our community and economy by reinventing underutilized property, implementing sustainable practices, and promoting a vibrant cityscape.
The Time Travel Mural, 611 South Pickett Street
For transforming an otherwise unremarkable warehouse exterior into a masterpiece depicting the region's history and development.
![611 South Pickett St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/611%20South%20Pickett%20Street.jpg?itok=Qm1ZdjGH)
Alexan Florence, 400 Wythe Street
For converting an old bus shed into a dense community featuring modern and historical elements, ecological practices, and informative plaques.
![400 Wythe St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/Alexan%20Florence%2C%20400%20Wythe%20Street.jpg?h=c7fcecb6&itok=yOaX9rgF)
Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats, 200 Commerce Street
For carefully and faithfully restoring an old ice house into a vibrant ice cream parlor with historical charm and ecological seasonal plantings.
![200 Commerce St](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/200%20Commerce%20Street.jpg?h=3462d5b8&itok=0PEAeEnC)
Tenant and Workers United building, 3801 Mount Vernon Avenue
For inspiring central Alexandria with two bright and colorful murals that illustrate the dreams and challenges of immigrant communities in the U.S.
![3801 Mount Vernon Ave](/sites/default/files/styles/crop_card_image/public/2023-07/3801%20Mount%20Vernon%20Avenue.jpg?h=e0d104d2&itok=aYYYkQkH)
2008 - 2022 Beautification Award Winners
2008 - 2022 Beautification Award Winners
- 2022 Beautification Award Winners
- 2021 Beautification Award Winners
- 2019 Beautification Award Winners
- 2018 Beautification Award Winners
- 2017 Beautification Award Winners
- 2016 Beautification Award Winners
- 2015 Beautification Award Winners
- 2014 Beautification Award Winners
- 2013 Beautification Award Winners
- 2012 Beautification Award Winners
- 2011 Beautification Award Winners
- 2010 Beautification Award Winners
- 2009 Beautification Award Winners
- 2008 Beautification Award Winners
Special Projects
- Median Beautification & Sustainability
On Friday, June 15, the Alexandria Beautification Commission saw a year's worth of planning and working with the City of Alexandria come to fruition with the installation of native and sustainable plant material in three medians at the heavily trafficked intersection of King St., Quaker Ln and Braddock Rd. The Commission initiated the pilot median improvement project in 2017 to make the City’s medians both more attractive and more sustainable.The Commission recommended the use of low maintenance, no mow areas in City medians that utilize native and sustainable shrubs and perennial plants. For the past year, the Beautification Commission has been working with the City of Alexandria’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Activities to develop a cohesive landscaping plan for the medians which they hope can serve as a model for beautification of medians throughout the City. Together, their efforts have resulted in a beautiful and well-designed sustainable public space at a busy intersection.
Awards Criteria
The Commission encourages residents and businesses to participate in the ABC’s annual awards process whereby you can submit nominations for exceptional beautification in the City of Alexandria across the following four categories:
- Residential Beautification
- Excellence in Architecture
- Community Beautification
- Commercial Beautification
Special consideration for using sustainable and green practices, landscaping, and landscape architecture that create a healthier community, enjoyable lifestyle, and higher quality of life. See the awards criteria
Looking for inspiration on how you could receive an award? Check out the past winners & these sustainable practices & tips.