Posts by Canaan Merchant — Elections Committee
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No, Reston is not going to be denser than Manhattan
Reston is set to grow a lot over the next couple of decades as Metro's Silver Line is completed, transforming parts of the area from quiet, isolated office parks to denser office and apartment buildings. However, it's important to remember that density is just one measure of what a community feels like, and there are many ways to arrive at the same numbers of people per square mile. Keep reading…
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As Reston grows, neighbors want more control to say no
Reston's neighborhood association is asking Fairfax County to give it more control over future growth, as residents try to figure out how to absorb new neighbors without losing community ties. In an area that prides itself on being inclusive, a contentious planning process has revealed some big tensions over increasing density. Keep reading…
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Some Anne Arundel County residents want to shut down their light rail. Again.
Some residents in Anne Arundel County are pushing to close light rail stations that run in their communities to Baltimore. (No, this isn't an old post from 2011. Or from 1994.) Closure proponents claim they're concerned about crime from light rail riders, but there's no evidence of increased crime in the area, from the train or otherwise. Keep reading…
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Which jurisdiction in the Washington region has the most representation?
The Washington region is made up of a lot of different local governments, and every person who lives in the area has someone who represents them at a city, county, and/or state level. I calculated which Washington region voters get more representation for their vote, and which get less. Keep reading…
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No vacancy: some Northern Virginia communities are deciding they’re full
Northern Virginia held local elections this week, and population growth was foremost on the mind of many of those running. Some candidates even pondered whether or not there should be a population limit in various parts in the region. Keep reading…
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Despite new bike lanes, Reston will still have some big gaps
Fairfax County proposed new bike lanes for South Lakes Drive in Reston this spring. Now the county has the final plans for where they'll go. It's definitely an improvement, but the plan still has some pretty major disadvantages for both cyclists and drivers Keep reading…
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Why urbanists should be excited about the Caps going to the finals
Haven't you heard? The Washington Capitals are in the finals! Even if you aren't a hockey fan, you can still get excited about how sports can add value to urban public spaces. Keep reading…
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Public space is popular, until people want to use it
Some Restonians are opposed to making a local public plaza nicer over fears that the improvements will lead to more teenagers and vandalism. But Reston's public spaces such as plazas are what helps make the community strong, as well as unique in Fairfax County. Keep reading…
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This vacant site could become 180 affordable homes, but it needs your help
A plan to convert vacant offices into affordable housing in Arlington's Buckingham neighborhood is up for debate this weekend. Opposition is fierce, and now is your chance to speak up in favor. Sign this petition to let the Arlington County Board know you support this badly-needed affordable housing. Keep reading…
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A reset in Reston? Fairfax Zoning says “no thanks,” we’re going to allow new homes
Fairfax County zoning officials say they will not back off from commitments they’ve already made, despite pressure to allow fewer new homes in Reston. Officials recently responded to two groups that want to change or reverse zoning updates that would allow more density — changes that would mean going back on plans and compromises already made, some as recently as 2015. Keep reading…