January 2010 Columbia Pike Revitalization News

New Modified Plan Approved for Arlington Mill Project

The Arlington County Board has approved a modified, phased plan for the Arlington Mill Community Center redevelopment project, with the goal of opening a new community center, gymnasium and plaza in the first quarter of 2013. The vote took place on December 15, following many months of evaluating options on how to move the stalled project forward. The original plan, approved prior to the last year’s collapse of the credit markets, called for a new community center with a large gymnasium, a mix of market-rate and affordable residential apartments, some ground floor retail, and a public plaza. However, despite significant efforts, the private sector development partner Public Private Alliance was unable to secure financing for the market-rate apartment portion of the approved Arlington Mill Community Center redevelopment project. The modified plan will eliminate the residential units that were to be built on top of the community center, but may include floors built above the community center for other County purposes. The second phase will include housing, to be built on the north side of the site. The Board reiterated its commitment to build at least the 61 affordable units that were originally planned for the site. The cost of the public portion of the plan, including the community center, will be financed by a bond approved by voters in November 2006. Phase I is expected to cost $24-$25 million. The County’s efforts to find a development partner for the housing will continue while taking steps necessary to proceed with the construction of the new community center.

Penrose Square Retail Leasing Now Underway!

Carbon Thompson Development has kicked off retail leasing for its Penrose Square project located in Pike Town Center (Columbia Pike and S. Barton St.). Excellent progress continues to be made on the construction of this large-scale project. The 7-story development will include a 57,000 square-foot Giant store, which is scheduled to open in early 2011. An additional 32,000 sq. ft. of other retail space available that fronts either Columbia Pike or the new public square will be available for finish-out in late 2010. Venting is available in three retail spaces to allow full restaurant uses. The project also includes 299 apartments and more than 700 parking spaces. For more information, prospective retailers should contact Garrett Erdle at 703-625-3674 or Jim Mertz at 469-371-0892 or email retail@carbonthompson.com.

CPRO Seeks Executive Director

CPRO is currently accepting applications for the position of Executive Director. This is a great opportunity for someone to work with a committed Board of Directors and active residential, non-profit and business communities to bring about positive change in the Columbia Pike corridor. Applicants should have experience in areas such as event planning, fundraising, membership development, and communications and outreach. To access a copy of the job description for this position go to www.columbiapike.org. To apply, email cover letter, resume and salary requirements to cproemployment@verizon.net. Email or call with questions. 703-892-2776.

ACE Adopts a Portion of Columbia Pike and Plans Clean-up Event on MLK Day of Service

Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment (ACE) is participating in the County’s Adopt-a-Street program, and is taking responsibility to keep the section from Four Mile Run Drive to George Mason Drive clean. Way to go, ACE! By keeping the roadway, gutters, and streambed free of debris ACE volunteers will be helping to reduce pollution of the County’s largest watershed. The next clean-up event will be held on Monday January 18, the Martin Luther King Day of Service. Please join ACE at the parking lot of the Arlington Mill Community Center (4975 Columbia Pike) at 10:00 am that day for the 2-hour project.

Arlington Community Federal Credit Union Columbia Pike Branch Now Open!

Arlington Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) has opened its newly constructed, state of the art headquarters branch on Columbia Pike! The new branch, located at 5666 Columbia Pike, comes complete with additional drive-thru lanes, safe deposit boxes, a coin counting machine. Over the next three months, ACFCU plans on celebrating the completion of this new branch and headquarters with member rewards and promotions, culminating with a Grand Opening Celebration on April 10, 2010. Arlington Community Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit organization that has grown through the years into a full service financial institution. Those who live, work, worship, go to school, volunteer or consistently do business in Arlington County can belong to ACFCU. So visit their new Pike location, find out about the wide range of financial services they offer, and check out their website over the next three months to learn about their Grand Opening promotions.

Columbia Pike Documentary Project Inaugural Exhibit Rescheduled for January 23rd

All are invited to attend an inaugural exhibition presented by the Columbia Pike Documentary Project titled "Works in Progress" by all the project’s photographers - Lloyd Wolf. Xang Mimi Ho, Duy Tran, and Paula Endo. There will be an artists’ talk and a slide presentation. Due to the record snowfall in December, the opening has been re-scheduled for Saturday January 23, 2010 at 2:00 PM at the Columbia Pike Branch Library, located at 816 S. Walter Reed Dr. Arlington VA 22204. The work will be on display through January 31, 2010. Check the project’s blogspot often to see the growing collection of excellent photos from this important project.

Get in Shape and Feel Good in the New Year

Check out these options on the Pike! JOURNEYoga (2628 Columbia Pike) has a new class offering to add to their regular list of classes in 2010! Beginning Fridays, a Mindful Movement class will be held 11:30-12:30 pm. Gentle, mindful movement is used to enhance concentration, deepen body awareness and set the stage for meditation practice. The class will work with different approaches to meditation including observing the breath, body sensing, guided visualization and mantra. For more information and to register, click here. Learn to dance at the Y2salsa Dance Studio! Make 2010 the year you take Salsa to a different level and improve your technique and skill as a dancer while having lots of fun. Classes are being offered at the Y2salsa Dance Studio (951 S. George Mason Dr.). Click here to see the class schedule or call 703-586-8032 for more information and class prices. Contact Kya@yeson2salsa.com to register. Drop-ins are also welcome to participate in the classes. See you on the dance floor! And, finally, don’t forget, there are always a wide range of fitness activities and classes for all ages offered at several convenient County facilities just off the Pike—Barcroft Sports and Health Center (4200 South Four Mile Run Drive), Thomas Jefferson Community Center (3501 2nd Street S., Arlington, VA 22204) and Walter Reed Community Center (2909 16th Street S.).

Check Out the Latest Pike Area Real Estate Report!!
The market is moving and shaking! 129 residential properties sold in the last 90 days in the 22204 area! Low interest rates and tax credits have helped stimulate the market. Remember if you want to take advantage of the home buyer tax credit and you meet the eligibility guidelines you must have a ratified contract by April 30, 2010. Here is a break down of what is for sale. Currently, there are 47 condo properties, 15 town home/duplex properties and 37 single family homes actively listed in the MRIS multiple listing service. The average price for these properties are: condo, $234,735, town home or duplex, $447,828 and single family home, $536,895. The stats for the 129 sold properties are as follows: 49 condominiums sold with an average selling price of $213,221, 34 town home/duplex style properties sold with an average selling price of $316,611, the average sold price for the 46 single family homes is $491,161. (Data derived from Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc. (MRIS), deemed accurate but not guaranteed.) At this pace over 500 properties could potentially be sold in 2010! Here's hoping for a banner year!! Information provided by CPRO member Nick Kuhn, Associate Broker, McEnearney Associates, 703-717-6338 or www.NickKuhn@Realtor.com. Thanks Nick!

Arlington Free Clinic Wins Design Awards

The beautiful and environmentally friendly Arlington Free Clinic facility just off the Pike on S. 11^th St. has picked up four prestigious designs awards! The kudos come from the Washington Business Journal, the Health Care Facilities Symposium, and the local chapters of the American Society of Interior Designers and the American Institute of Architects. The new facility was designed by Perkins + Will Inc., and built by Bognet Construction Associates. During FY2009 the organization served 1,614 patients, accommodating more than 9,000 clinic visits. Congratulations to the Arlington Free Clinic!

The Great Arlington Eat Out!

CPRO is pleased to support The Great Arlington Eat Out. During the month of January, several restaurants throughout Arlington are donating a portion of restaurant sales for a night(s) during the month of January, with all proceeds going to support patient care at the Virginia Hospital Center. The restaurants and dates for each are: Aladdin’s Eatery, 4044 Campbell Avenue (Shirlington) Jan. 19 & 26; Carvel Ice Cream, 3322 Wilson Blvd., Jan. 18 & 25; Cosi, 4250 N. Fairfax Drive, Jan. 22; Elevation Burger, 2447 N. Harrison St., Jan. 25; Lebanese Taverna, 5900 Washington Blvd., Jan. 26; Sangam Restaurant, 1211 N. Glebe Rd., Jan. 12 – 19; Union Jack’s British Pub, 671 N. Glebe Road (Ballston Mall), Jan. 19.

SAVE THE DATE!

Columbia Pike Business Networking Event Set for March 18^th.

The next breakfast gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network will occur on March 18^th, from 8:00-9:30am. These events, co-presented by CPRO and AED’s BizLaunch, offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to meet other local business people, promote their own businesses and develop new contacts. The newly delivered 55Hundred (located at 5500 Columbia Pike, at S. Greenbrier St) has graciously offered to be the sponsoring host for the event, giving networking attendees a special opportunity to mingle in the elegant interior of this mixed-use development. Admission is FREE. For more information or to pre-register, call (703) 892-2776 or email pholcomb@columbiapike.org. In the meantime, check out 55Hundred’s website at www.55hundredlifestyle.com.

Arlington Home Show & Expo Returns on April 10^th. On Saturday, April 10 more than 50 exhibitors will be on hand to offer valuable information, products and services to local homeowners who will benefit from the convenience of one-stop shopping for a wide variety of home improvement solutions. Admission is FREE to the 4th annual Arlington Home Show & Expo which is being presented by the Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization (CPRO) in partnership with Arlington County’s Housing Division, and will once again take place at the Walter Reed Community Center (2909 16^th Street S). The show will also include a variety of classes/seminars on subjects of interest to residents and landlords. Exhibitors from Arlington County and area non-profits will also be available to offer valuable advice and assistance. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend! CPRO thanks premier remodeler Sun Design for returning this year as an event GOLD sponsor. Booth space is available for home improvement professionals interested in exhibiting, and sponsorship opportunities are also still available. Click here to learn more about the show and to download a sponsor or exhibitor registration form. Call CPRO at 703-892-2776 with questions.

Visit the Year-Round Columbia Pike Market
While dreaming about the fresh tomatoes and peaches to come, stop by our now year-round market to buy your homemade pasta and sauces, breads and other baked goods, coffee and teas, eggs, organic meats, Amish cheeses, pickles, canned fruits and vegetables, soaps and bath salts, and more! The market takes place in Pike Park at the corner of S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike every Sunday from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. Please note these are new hours just for the colder months of January, February and March!

Join CPRO and Support the Pike’s Revitalization
CPRO’s annual membership drive is now underway! The Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization (CPRO) helps to build community, and promote smart growth and economic development in Arlington's Columbia Pike corridor. We are 100% Pike, 100% of the time. Each year CPRO gratefully receives a grant from Arlington County that covers almost one-third of our budget. Another critical source of support is our membership, who by making a tax-deductible contribution, enable CPRO to continue its important work. Today, our members include more than 20 civic and nonprofit organizations, as are 65 businesses, and more than 180 local residents. Won’t you please join them in becoming a CPRO member today? To access a residential or business membership form, please click here. Thank you!

Contact Us

As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, and comments to Pam Holcomb at pholcomb@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike, go to www.columbiapike.org.

December 2009 Columbia Pike Revitalization News

New Committed and Improved Affordable Housing on the Pike

On November 14th, the Arlington County Board unanimously approved a $7.1 million loan to the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH), a nonprofit housing corporation, for the purchase of historic Buchanan Gardens to preserve it as affordable housing. Buchanan Gardens is a 111-unit garden apartment complex located on S. Buchanan Street, one block north of Columbia Pike. The buildings date back to 1949 and are in need repairs for major code violations and safety hazards. To address these deficiencies, APAH also received the Board’s approval for a plan to add bedrooms to some of the units to make them more suitable for families and to make others accessible to people with disabilities. APAH also plans to incorporate a community space, which will include a playground. "This is a rare opportunity for the County to help preserve and improve affordable housing suitable for families close to Columbia Pike," said County Board Chairman Barbara A. Favola. Settlement is scheduled before the end of the year. For more information, contact Nina Janopaul at 703-276-7444 or njanopaul@apah.org.

World Gym Signs Lease for Space at the Halstead
We’ve been talking it up for a while now, but now its official! World Gym has signed a lease to occupy space in the corner of the Halstead bordering S. Walter Reed Drive and 11^th Street South. The 10,292 square foot health club will include a mezzanine and is slated to open in Spring/Summer of 2010. Parties interested in retail space still available at the Halstead should contact Lyndsey McGaw of KLNB at 703-722-2707.

Pike Businesses Are WINNERS!
More than 5,000 Arlingtonians voted for their favorite local businesses and venues in the 2009 People’s Choice Arlington Best Business “ABBIE” Awards. And out of 15 winners, we are pleased to report that two establishments—one new to the Pike and one long-time favorite—came out on top! Lost Dog Café (2920 Columbia Pike, 703-553-7770), which opened in May of this year, was honored as Best New Business and Bob & Edith’s Diner (2310 Columbia Pike, 703-920-6103) was named Best Late-Night Spot. Congratulations to both of our winners!!!!!

Documenting the Pike: Its History and People
As the culminating activity of its 150th anniversary year, Arlington United Methodist Church (AUMC) will present a premier screening of the documentary, "A Century and a Half of Faith" on Saturday, December 19^thfrom 3:00 to 4:30 pm in the Edmund and Elizabeth Campbell Meeting Room of the Shirlington Library, 4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA 22206. This documentary presents the history of the church through drama, interviews, worship, and stunning cinematography. Come and experience the wonderful history of one Arlington’s oldest churches!

All are invited to attend the inaugural exhibition of "Works in Progress" by the photographers of the Columbia Pike Documentary Project (CPDP) - Lloyd Wolf, Xang Mimi Ho, Duy Tran, and Paula Endo. The opening will be Saturday, December 19^th at 2:00 pm at the Columbia Pike Branch Library, 816 S. Walter Reed Dr. Arlington VA 22204. There will be an artists’ talk and a slide presentation. The exhibition will be on display through January 31, 2010. To see more images from the Documentary project, go to http://cpdpcolumbiapike.blogspot.com.

Celebrate the Season!

· Holiday Open House at CPRO. CPRO is fortunate to share space with Mrs. Lavendar, Inc. and the Virginia Sustainable Building Network. Please join our jointly sponsored Holiday Open House at 2611 Columbia Pike on December 13^th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Enjoy hot cider and cookies while you browse local arts and crafts and take advantage of special offers from Columbia Pike businesses!

Columbia Pike Community Chorus & MusiKids Concert. To really get in the holiday spirit, come hear The Columbia Pike Community Chorus & MusiKids present “The World Celebrates Light,” on December 13 at 4:00 pm at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2217 Columbia Pike. Yiddish, Galician, African, Korean, and Latvian folk tunes, as well as music from festivals of La Posada, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Christmas, will comprise the program. The event is free to the public. The CPCC, now 5 years old, is open to all, and presents two concerts each year. For more information, contact Barbara Stefan, Music Director at 703-920-7077 or musicmin@tecarl.org.

Don’t forget to include the Columbia Pike Farmers Market (now year ‘round!) in your holiday shopping. The Columbia Pike Farmers Market has lots of different holiday offerings including Christmas trees, garlands and wreaths, holiday baked goods, arts and crafts, and other great gifts like handmade soap, organic teas, coffee, and honey.

Deck the halls – and help the Lions Club help our community! The Arlington South Lions Club offers a wide range of trees, garlands and wreaths at the corner of George Mason Drive and Columbia Pike. All the workers helping with this Christmas tree sale are unpaid volunteers – and all proceeds go to local charities. Hours are Monday through Friday noon – 8:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sunday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm.

CPRO’s very own Amy McWilliams, currently appearing in the role of Mrs. Cratchit, is helping spread holiday cheer in the ever popular A Christmas Carol playing at Ford’s Theater through January 3^rd. In a highly favorable review Washington Post critic Nelson Pressley, noted that the production “feels fresh and looks lavish” . . . and that Mr. and Mrs. Cratchit are “understated standouts.” Click here for the full review.
Come out on Friday, December 11, 2009 at Iota Restaurant & Bar (2832 Wilson Blvd, Arlington 22201) to celebrate the end of the year with Art Outlet. Meet the organizers behind Art Outlet, along with fellow artist colleagues and friends. From early spring until late summer of 2009, Art Outlet rocked the Pike with 3 art exhibitions, starting with showcasing the Art of Neo-Graffiti Pike Artist Kevin Irvin, then by hosting an open art salon FLUX, and finally, in partnership with artdc.org, celebrating Columbia Pike as THE HOT LOCATION TO BE with The ZIP Code Show at The Halstead! This meet-up is open to anyone.

The Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse on the Pike is definitely the place to be on Saturday, December 12 when Comedy Legend Gallagher presents a one night only special stand-up comedy appearance. Shows are at 7:30 and 10:15 pm. If you can’t make this show, the Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse continually features a line-up of top-rate comedy appearances as well as great movies. Check it out!

CPRO Executive Director Job Opening

CPRO is seeking a new Executive Director! A job description for this position and information on how to apply will be posted on our website (www.columbiapike.org) during the week of December 14^th.

Happy Holidays From CPRO!

Season’s greetings from your friends at the Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization! It’s been an exciting year for the Pike and for CPRO. We thank all of you for your involvement and support, and are especially grateful to our Board of Directors, volunteers, and all of our members. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining today! Click here for a current list of CPRO members and to access a membership form. CHEERS!

November 2009 Columbia Pike Revitalization News

Siena Park Nearing Completion; Leasing Office to Open

Earlier this week we found a very busy Margaret Smith Ford of Woodfield Investments eyeing the progress at Siena Park, the $88 million mixed-use project at 2301 Columbia Pike where she has overseen development. “I’m excited we’re about 95% done,” she said, “of course there’s lots of work in the last 5%!” The residential leasing office, which will be accessible from the building’s main entrance on the Pike, is expected to open next week. Bozzuto Management (703-778-4330) will be handling the leasing of the 188 new luxury apartments. Meanwhile, crews were busy working on final construction details in the beautiful and contemporary lobby with its soaring ceilings, as well as on the building’s exterior. Sidewalks have been completed, new Carlyle light poles have been installed, and street trees have been planted along the two side streets, S. Adams, and S. Wayne.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to Celebrate Pike’s Town Center Streetscape Improvements

Please join County Board Members and CPRO for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the transformation that has taken place in the Pike’s Town Center area. Come see how underground utilities, new streetlights, sidewalks and crosswalks, bus shelters, street trees make the Pike a more visually appealing and welcoming place for pedestrians, commuters and businesses! The ceremony will be held on Monday, November 16 at 11:00 am (rain or shine) on the NE corner of the Pike and S. Glebe Road, adjacent to the Westmont Shopping Center. This project marks a significant advancement of the County’s goal to create a more attractive, accessible, and pedestrian-friendly environment in the Columbia Pike corridor. Limited street parking is available. Please use the PikeRide 16 buses or the ART 41 or 77 routes.

BIG NEWS: Farmers Market to go Year Round!

Due to the growing success of the Columbia Pike Farmers Market, CPRO has decided to extend it year round! The market takes place in Pike Park at the corner of S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike every Sunday from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm. “We’re delighted that so many of our vendors have agreed to continue throughout the year,” said CPRO’s Interim Executive Director Pam Holcomb. “It can help them generate needed income during the winter months, and also offers a valuable service to the Pike community.” Parties interested in becoming a vendor at the Pike’s winter market should contact CPRO at 703-892-2776 or email pholcomb@columbiapike.org

Streetcar Planning Moving Forward

As part of the ongoing planning for the Columbia Pike Streetcar Project, the Arlington County Board has appointed members to a newly formed Columbia Pike Street Car Policy Committee. The Policy Committee, co-chaired by Arlington County Board member Chis Zimmerman and Penelope Gross, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors member, will advise the project-management team currently engaged in the Columbia Pike Multimodal Improvement project and planning for the design and implementation of the Pike streetcar. In addition, a Technical Advisory Committee and a Community Coordination Committee will be established as the planning process moves forward. This month also marks the official Launch of the Northern Virginia Streetcar Coalition. ADAM (Alexandrians Delivering Smart Growth Around Metro Stations) is holding the Coalition’s Kick-Off Meeting on November 18^th, 7-9 pm at the Alexandria Campus of the Northern Virginia Community College, Bisdorf Bldg. Room 158. This is a great opportunity to learn about the latest trends in streetcar projects and be part of launching a new initiative to create a regional streetcar network to connect Alexandria, Arlington, and Fairfax Counties. To RSVP, please email NOVAStreetcar@aol.com and for more information go to their Facebook page by entering “Northern Virginia Streetcar Coalition” in the Search Box.

Groundbreaking Planned for Columbia Green

The first of four single family homes planned by the Evergreene Companies for the empty lot on 7^th St. S. , is expected to break ground in mid-December. The house on Lot #1 at 3232 7^th St. S. will feature 3 stories, brick construction, a 2-car garage and have a wrap-around porch. In addition, a 4 ft. tall brick wall with landscaping will separate it from S. Glebe. Rd. The list price is $949,900. For more information contact Debby James at debby@theevergreenecompanies.com.

Pike Organizations Win Environmental Kudos

The Arlington Free Clinic (2921 11^th St. S.) and Envirocab (2617 Columbia Pike) have both been singled out for exemplary green practices. The Free Clinic won a Green Business Award for Design from the Washington Business Journal for their new facility on the ground floor of the Halstead. The beautiful new clinic space is the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified medical facility in Arlington. It was built with sustainable wood products, uses 40% less energy and 30% less water than comparable space, and uses furniture manufactured within 500 miles of the clinic—much of which was donated by Washington Workplace. Envirocab won an Arlington County SAVR (Saving Arlington’s Valuable Resources) Award for its exceptional recycling program. Envirocab reduces paper waste by scanning daily driver manifests, collecting and processing passenger recyclables, and servicing vehicles at a garage where oil, oil filters, and antifreeze are all recycled. Congratulations to the Pike’s winners!

Pike Business Networking Event and Small Business News

The next gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network will be held at 8:00 am on Tuesday, December 8 at the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse (2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204; www.arlingtondrafthouse.com). These events, co-presented by CPRO and AED’s BizLaunch, offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to meet other local business people, promote their own businesses and develop new contacts. Thanks to our sponsor, BBandT, the event is FREE but registration is required. You won’t want to miss this gathering of Pike area business, government, and nonprofit leaders. To register on-line, please click here or send an email to pholcomb@columbiapike.org and include your name, business and phone number. For more information, call the CPRO office at 703-892-2776. In other business news…

Angelico Pizzeria (703-920-9110) located at 927 S. Walter Reed Drive, just a few doors down from Columbia Pike has opened and offers free delivery, carry-out, and catering services. Angelico’s menu has a wide selection of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and wraps, pastas and, oh yes, delicious pizzas.
Rincome Thai Cuisine has launched a new Happy Hour, weekdays 5-7 pm, featuring a selection of domestic beers for $2, house wines and rail drinks for $3, and $1 off appetizers for bar customers.
And on behalf of our four-legged friends, the Pike welcomes Dr. Fred Jones, the new veterinarian in charge of the Arlington Animal Hospital (2624 Columbia Pike, 703/920-5300), a long-time provider of quality animal care in our area.
The Car Place at Barcroft: George Mason Auto Service Center, located at S. George Mason and the Pike is now officially reopened! Operated by the same owner and known for its friendly, reasonable and honest service, the former Shell service station has undergone extensive renovations, including new pumps and underground gas tanks.
Another grocery market is set to open this month. Asia Bangla Grocery & Halal Meat Shop (3201 Columbia Pike,571-315-6083) specializes in the foods and spices of Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and Nepal and will carry both fresh fish and Halal meats.
Twisted Vines Bottleshop & Bistro is working hard on building out their new space at 2803 Columbia Pike and should be open in the next few weeks. We will keep you posted!
The Alante Financial store in the Westmont Shopping Center (3233 Columbia Pike) has closed. That storefront offers 1,326 sq. ft. on the ground floor plus additional basement storage space. Interested parties should contact Chuck DeMarco of Polinger Shannon & Luchs at 301-357-3600.

Please Support the Pike’s Revitalization!

Each year CPRO gratefully receives a grant from Arlington County that covers almost one-third of our budget. But for the other two-thirds, we rely on the support of our members, as well as organizations and companies who sponsor our events. Today, our members include 20 civic and nonprofit organizations, 65 businesses, and more than 180 local residents. Please join them in becoming a CPRO member today. To access a residential/civic or business membership form, please click here. Thank you!

Contact Us

As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, comments, and offers of assistance to Pam Holcomb at pholcomb@columbiapike.org; or Amy McWilliams at amcwilliams@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike go to www.columbiapike.org.

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October 2009 CPRO e-Newsletter

Leasing Office Opens at 55 Hundred

The new mixed use building by Fairfield Residential at 5500 Columbia Pike (at S. Greenbrier St.) is now accepting lease applications for its 235 luxury 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. The leasing office, which is on the ground floor facing the Pike, is open 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 10 to 5 on Saturdays and 1 to 5 on Sundays. Park free in the building’s garage and take the elevator to the office. Check out the website at www.55hundredlifestyle.com. Currently, Fairfield is offering 3 free months rent with a 12 month lease! For information about other move in specials call 703-379-7500. For information about the ground floor retail space available call 301-961-9696. A Red Carpet Grand Opening Celebration is being planned for early November. Stay Tuned! For more information about development projects along the Pike click here.

CPRO’s Executive Director Announces Departure

Jim Whittaker, who has served as CPRO’s Executive Director since July of 2006 will be leaving the post at the end of October. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with so many of the Pike’s active residents and business people, and serving as the Pike’s Booster-in-Chief,” Whittaker said. Of the past three plus years he remarked, “we’ve started to bring the community’s vision into reality—it feels like we’ve made a great deal of progress. Of course, there’s much more to be done, but the Pike is on the way to becoming a truly great place to live and do business.” Whittaker plans to take some time off and enjoy more family time over the holidays, and is planning a trip to Australia in January. In addition, he will remain busy with the Arlington Community Foundation, where he serves as Vice President of the Board of Trustees. He has also agreed to co-chair Arlington’s Complete Count Committee for the 2010 Census. Pam Holcomb who has been serving as CPRO’s Managing Director will assume the role of Interim Executive Director. Please join us in wishing Jim all the best at a happy hour on Thursday November 5 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Manee Thai, 2500 Columbia Pike.

Help Columbia Pike Establishments Win an ABBIE Award!

You did it Columbia Pike! You helped get 4 Pike businesses and an area non-profit nominated for 2009 ABBIE awards! The People’s Choice ABBIE awards program is organized by Arlington Economic Development in order to highlight the great work of Arlington’s best businesses. Last year our corridor was shut out of the prizes, so let’s make sure that doesn’t happen again! This year the Pike is represented with the following finalists: Lost Dog Café for Best Bargain Restaurant and also for Best New Business; Bob & Edith’s Diner for Best Late Night Spot; LA Bar & Grill for Best Neighborhood Bar; Greenbrier Learning Center for Best Neighborhood Based Non-Profit; and Dog Paws ‘N Cat Claws University for Best Place to Care For Your Pet. Congratulations to the nominees—now let’s put them over the top! Click here to access the online ballot and vote for your Columbia Pike favorites!

Enterprise Development Group (EDG) Wins $1 Million Grant

A subsidiary of the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC) has been awarded a $1 million grant from the US Treasury Department’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. According to EDG’s President, Dr. Tsehaye Teferra, who is also a CPRO Board member, the grant will enable EDG to expand its products and services including small business and consumer loans, individual development accounts, financial literacy training, and its small business incubator. Since 2000 EDG has provided more than $10.75 million in loans to over 600 small businesses, $1.24 million in vehicle loans to nearly 200 clients, and has provided financial management training to some 5,500 clients. ECDC and EDG are headquartered at 901 S. Highland St. just north of Columbia Pike. For more information about these organizations go to: www.entdevgroup.org and www.ecdcinternational.org.

Small Business News

Need a new cell phone? You might want to check out the newly remodeled AT&T Wireless Outlet store (5025 Columbia Pike) in the Columbia Pike Plaza shopping center (703-820-3420), or the newly opened T-Mobile Wireless store (2922 Columbia Pike) at the Halstead, or the recently opened Cricket Wireless store (3529 Columbia Pike) in the Westmont Shopping Center---and tell them CPRO sent you! Meanwhile, a Columbia Pike New & Used Tires has opened at 4615 Columbia Pike in the space formerly occupied by Sonic Sound. Call 703-979-1990 for more information. Work at the former Shell service station at the corner of S. George Mason and the Pike continued this week with the installation of new underground tanks. It will reopen for business in November as an independent gas station called Car Place at Barcroft, and a garage called George Mason Auto Repair. Also, did you know the former Pines of Naples restaurant space has been thoroughly renovated with an all new kitchen and elegant dining rooms and will open as the new Kabobs Inn (3205 Columbia Pike) within a month? In addition to the upstairs fine dining restaurant, they will also operate a self-service and carryout restaurant on the ground floor.

Arlington UMC Gearing Up for Fall Harvest Festivities

In addition to the annual pumpkin patch that brings a splash of color to the lawn of the United Methodist Church (716 S. Glebe Rd.), the congregation will be hosting a Children’s Fall Festival on Saturday, October 24, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This FREE event is open to the public and will include a moon bounce, face painting, story time, target games with prizes, and a bake sale. The pumpkin patch is open daily October 16-31, weekdays from 3:00-7:00 pm, and weekends from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

For more information go to www.arlingtonumc.com.

VDOT Allocates Funds for Columbia Pike Street Lighting Improvements and Ribbon Cutting Scheduled for Streetscape Project

Three sections of Columbia Pike will receive enhanced street lighting as part of $895,000 in grants for safety projects funded by Virginia’s Department of Transportation. According to Wayne Wentz of Arlington County’s Transportation Division, the County applied for the funding on the basis of data on night time collisions. The three areas are S. Dinwiddie St. to S. Buchanan; S. George Mason to S. Glebe Rd.; and S. Glebe Rd. to S. Wayne St. The focus of the effort will be to replace older street lights and install additional street lights where needed for safety. All three sections will follow Arlington standards for Columbia Pike which include Carlyle poles and fixtures. At this time the project is being administered by the State, but will be shifted to the County should control over the roadway be transferred before completion of the effort. Surveyors may be seen working along the Pike in the near term, and installation of the new street lights is likely to begin next spring and continue through 2010. Also, the County is planning a ribbon cutting on November 16 at 11:00 am to celebrate the completion of the utility undergrounding and streetscape improvement project that covered the area from S. Garfield to S. Oakland Sts. It will take place in front of the Westmont Shopping Center on the Pike at S. Glebe Rd. County Board members will be on hand and the public is invited.

ART Bus Service to be Expanded

The County has announced plans to expand ART bus service in the Pike corridor. Buses have been added to the ART 41 route, which runs from the Pike to Ballston and Courthouse, to ensure 15-minute peak period service, and to start service earlier and end later (6:00 am to 10:45 pm). The ART 75 route which runs from Wakefield High School to Ballston via Carlin Springs Road will also increase service, but details are not yet available. In addition, the new ART 77 route that connects Shirlington to Courthouse via S. Walter Reed Dr. is proving to be popular and will be continued. For ART bus routes and schedules click here.

Teatro de La Luna Celebrates 19^th Season with Hispanic Theater Festival

The International Festival of Hispanic Theater is taking place at the Gunston Arts Center’s Theatre Two from October 13 to November 21. Arlington’s acclaimed theatre company Teatro de la Luna is presenting this festival which also showcases top visiting theatre troupes from Latin America and Spain. The performances are presented in Spanish with live English dubbing. The theatre is located at 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington, VA 22206. For more information go to www.teatrodelaluna.org or call 703-548-3092.

Storm Drain Marking and Cleanup Project Comes to Arlington Mill Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment (ACE) will lead an effort on Saturday, November 7, 1:30 to 3:30 pm to pick up trash and sweep debris from Columbia Pike, and mark storm drains to educate the community about the importance of protecting our streams. Please sign up to volunteer by contacting Lily at 703-228-6406, or with an email to volunteer@arlingtonenvironment.org, and then come to Arlington Mill at 4975 Columbia Pike on Nov. 7.

Annual Open House Set for Columbia Pike Artist Studios

On Saturday, November 14, 6:00 to 9:00 pm CPAS will be celebrating its 20^th Annual Gala Open House and Exhibit Opening! The event will take place on the 2^nd floor at 932 S. Walter Reed Dr., in the very space where 29 local artists create a wide range of beautiful art works such as “The Falls” by Daniel Wise shown here. This FREE event is open to the public and refreshments will be served. Art will be available for sale, but “just looking” is also very much encouraged. For more information go to www.columbiapikeartiststudios.org

Free Home Maintenance Workshops to be Held Saturday

A series of hands on and interactive Do It Yourself (DIY) workshops on home maintenance topics will be presented on Saturday, October 17, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Arlington Career Center (816 S. Walter Reed Dr.). This program, which is offered by the County’s Housing Department and the Arlington Adult Education Program, includes sessions on plumbing, electrical, heating/ac, and saving energy at home. For more information call 703-228-3765, or click here.

Join CPRO and Support the Pike’s Revitalization

September 2009 CPRO e-Newsletter

Join us Sunday, September 20 for the

Vintage Crystal Wine Festival!

CPRO is pleased to be partnering with the Crystal City Business Improvement District (BID) to present Vintage Crystal with a Latin Twist on Sunday, September 20 from 2-6pm at 220 20th St. S., Arlington, VA 22202. Come taste 30 wines, foods provided by 25 local restaurants including the Pike’s Pan American Bakery, Salsa dance instruction and performances courtesy of The Salsa Room, live music, brief classes on the wines of Spain, Chile, and Argentina by CPRO’s own Jim Whittaker, and much more. From Tempranillo to Tequila, you’ll sip, taste, and salsa in style! Tickets are $20. For more information go to www.crystalcity.org

Habitat for Humanity to Initiate New Project in South Arlington

This winter Habitat for Humanity of Northern Virginia will begin construction work at Perry Hall, a new project at 2912 S. 17^thSt. just off of S. Walter Reed Dr. The effort involves converting an existing apartment building into 12 three bedroom condominiums. The organization is still seeking sponsors to help cover the costs of the development. For more information contact Virginia Patton at 703-521-9890 x105. Habitat will provide more information about this project at a benefit breakfast on Friday, October 23, 7:45 am, at the Sheraton National Hotel, and CPRO is hosting a table. Please contact Pam Holcomb at pholcomb@columbiapike.org if you would like to attend.

Excavation Complete for First Section of Penrose Square

“How low will they go?” asked an observer yesterday at the busy Penrose Square construction site in the 2500 block of Columbia Pike. The answer is 35 feet in order to accommodate three levels of underground parking. Excavation crews have already reached bottom for Section A of the project, a tower crane has just been installed, and concrete is now being poured. The photo at the left offers a glimpse of the project with the new Siena Park development in the background.

Streetscape Improvements Continue Along Columbia Pike

Over the summer new curbs, gutters, sidewalks, street lamps, and tree pits were installed along the Pike between S. Garfield and S. Oakland Streets. In addition to these improvements, new bike racks will soon be added as well as five new bus shelters (east and westbound on S. Glebe and S. Monroe Streets and westbound on S. Oakland), new benches, and trash & recycle bins. Additional street trees will soon be planted along that section of the Pike, and those that were already planted but failed to thrive will be replanted. Meanwhile, the ongoing work at the corner of Columbia Pike and S. Quinn Streets on the east side of the Pike involves installation of a 20” north-south water main. Pipe installation will be accomplished by tunneling under the Pike thereby avoiding a road closure. The project will be complete by mid-October.

Thomas Jefferson Field Improvements Coming Soon

Arlington County’s department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources is planning to replace the lower field at Thomas Jefferson Community Center and Middle School later this year. The existing field, which is used primarily for soccer, has a crushed stone surface that has created dust problems and much consternation in the neighborhood. The new field will have synthetic turf, new walkways and lighting. A contractor is expected to be selected soon, and work could begin as early as November.

Art Show at The Halstead: Rave Reviews!!

Hundreds of art fans flocked to Columbia Pike for The Zip Code Show, a multi-faceted exhibition that ran from August 29 to September 5 at The Halstead Arlington (1028 South Walter Reed Drive). The event featured paintings and sculpture by 35 artists, and the opening reception included Djembe drumming by the Rhythm Workers Union shown in the photo at the left, Belly dancing by Saffron Dance and much more. The show was put together by two local non-profit arts groups Art Outlet and artdc.org and was presented in partnership with CPRO. The idea was to fill unused retail space with an art happening that would bring positive exposure to area artists as well as to the new Halstead. “We were very happy to attract this kind of creative energy to the Pike,” said CPRO’s Executive Director Jim Whittaker, “I’m sure we will want to bring similar events to other new buildings in the future.”

Small Businesses in the News

P. Brennan’s Irish Pub has signed a lease to occupy the space behind the old Arlington Hardware store façade in the Halstead on Columbia Pike. The restaurant will be more than 6,500 sq. ft. with ample table seating, a bar, and space for live music. After many years in the neighborhood Salvo’s Pizza Pantry at 927 S. Walter Reed Dr. has closed, and will be replaced by Angelico Pizzeria. A new Ethio Café has just opened at 3045 Columbia Pike at S. Highland St. The café, which is owned by local State Farm agent Tsigey Paulo, features pastries and Ethiopian coffee. The Arlington Virginia Federal Credit Union, which is building its new headquarters on Columbia Pike in Bailey’s Crossroads, has a new name—the Arlington Community Federal Credit Union!

Starting a Business Seminar to be Held on September 22

Arlington Economic Development’s Bizlaunch is presenting a free seminar on how to start a business in Arlington on Tuesday, September 22 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. The seminar will take place at AED’s office located at 1100 N. Glebe Rd., suite 1500. Click here to register online. For more information call Darnell Roseboro at 703-228-0833.

Introducing the ShopArlington Savings Card!

Here’s how it works: The new ShopArlington Savings Card is free and offers great savings from participating Arlington merchants. The cards can be downloaded from the ShopArlington website or you can get one from CPRO. Once you have your ShopArlington Savings Card, simply present it at any participating ShopArlington merchant and start saving! Go to the ShopArlington website and click on "Save Big Bucks" to see who is participating and what specials are being offered. Check the website often because new merchants are signing up every day and specials change. If you are an Arlington business, register now to participate in this program! This is a great--and free--way to get your business in front of more and more customers. For further information on merchant benefits and to sign up online to participate, go to www.shoparlington.org/merchant. If you need help with the registration process, call CPRO at 703-892-2776 or email pholcomb@columbiapike.org.

Children, Come and Sing!

All children K-5^th grade are invited to join Columbia Pike MusiKids and prepare for the presentation of “The World Celebrates Light: Music from Holiday Festivals of Many Lands.” Rehearsals take place Mondays 5:30 to 6:15 pm starting October 5 at Trinity Church, 2217 Columbia Pike. There is no cost to participate. The concert will be performed with the Columbia Pike Community Chorus on Sunday, December 13 at 4:00 pm. To sign up email musicmin@tecarl.org, or call Barbara Stephan at 703-920-7077.

Track and Field Training Program Comes to TJ

Thomas Jefferson Community Center is hosting a youth track & field training program for young athletes 1st-8th grade, Sunday afternoons from October 4 to December 13, 3-5 pm, conducted by the Potomac Valley Track Club. Skills include sprints and long distance, racewalk, shotput, turbojavelin, long jump, high jump, hurdles, and relays. For more information visit www.pvtc.org/youth.

Join CPRO and Support the Pike’s Revitalization

Contact Us

As always, the CPRO staff welcomes your input. Email your suggestions, questions, comments, and offers of assistance to Jim Whittaker at jwhittaker@columbiapike.org; Pam Holcomb at pholcomb@columbiapike.org; or Amy McWilliams at amcwilliams@columbiapike.org or call 703-892-2776. Know someone who would like to receive the CPRO e-Newsletter? Please send us email addresses and we will add them to our distribution list. As always, for more information about what’s happening on the Pike go to http://www.columbiapike.org.

August 2009 CPRO e-Newsletter

County Seeking Control of Columbia Pike Roadway from State

Arlington County officials are seeking to take over control and responsibility for the Columbia Pike roadway from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and formal negotiations are set to begin soon. Revitalization plans for the Pike, which runs for 3.5 miles in Arlington from the Fairfax County Line to the Pentagon, involve transforming it from a busy commuter route into a pedestrian friendly main street. While considerable mixed use redevelopment activity is occurring, the County would like to press forward with numerous streetscape improvements that will complement the revitalization efforts and help the community to achieve its vision. However, lengthy VDOT approval processes (even for County funded improvements) have slowed some of this progress. In the past 10 years, the County has spent about $12 million on capital projects along the Pike – all of which required design approval and permits from VDOT. The County has allocated another $9.5 million for planned streetscape and utility under-grounding improvements for the Pike. Plans to build a modern electric streetcar system on the Pike would also be facilitated by having County control over the roadway, officials say. Should the transfer be approved, Arlington would assume responsibility for an additional $180,000 to $450,000 in maintenance costs for Columbia Pike each year. The State appears to be inclined to agree to the County’s request, and the transfer could occur on or about January 1, 2010.

It’s Business as Usual at the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse

The recent news that the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization caused a stir among long time fans of the Pike’s iconic theater. The filing is the result of the company’s failed opening of a second Drafthouse at Wheaton Plaza in Montgomery County. Problems with that project included difficult county permitting processes, excessive costs, a slowing economy, and a disagreement with the landlord over the build-out allowance. However, the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse here on the Pike continues to operate well, offering their full line-up of movies, live comedy, and their popular “Wine Night at the Movies” every Friday. “We are working hard to emerge from Chapter 11 by the end of the year,” said Drafthouse owner Greg Godbout. To check out their many offerings go to www.arlingtondrafthouse.com.

Exciting Art Show Coming to The Halstead, August 29-September 5

Mark your calendars now because you won’t want to miss The ZIP Code Show, an exhibition about artists and their relationships with their surroundings. The show runs August 29-September 5 at The Halstead Arlington (1028 South Walter Reed Drive). A reception will be held on the show’s opening and last nights (Saturday August 29 from 5:30 pm to 12:00 am, and Saturday September 5 from 5:00 to 10:00 pm) featuring a full evening of art, artists, and performers. This offering is by local non-profit arts groups Art Outlet and artdc.org and is being presented in partnership with Halstead Arlington and CPRO, with appetizers provided by Rincome Thai Cuisine and a cash bar. For more information about the show click here.

Global Dining on the Pike—This Month’s Feature: Lost Dog Café

Lost Dog Café opened its doors to us over Memorial Day weekend in one of the new retail spaces located on the ground-level of The Halstead – the new mixed-use development that plays a trail-blazing role in the ongoing story of Columbia Pike’s revitalization… “We thought that the residents of South Arlington wanted a Lost Dog location closer to them and since we opened they have proven that to be the case,” said co-owner Mike Barnes. “We feel embraced by the community and we look forward to the future we will play on Columbia Pike.” [This is just a snippet of an interesting article by local foodie Zuraidah Hoffman. Click here to see the full the feature!]

Neighborhood Conservation Funding to Benefit Two Areas Along the Pike

The County Board recently approved $3.3 million in funding for nine neighborhood conservation projects, including one in Barcroft and one Columbia Heights. For the W&OD Trail and Glencarlyn Park at Columbia Pike a $468,000 park enhancement project will include the addition of a rain garden with native plants, game tables, and other play elements. On S. Barton St. from Columbia Pike to 16 St. S. a $356,525 project will provide for new Carlyle streetlights designed to enhance lighting at ground level, and replacement of the current chain link fence along the north side of the Walter Reed Community Center. “We are especially excited that better lighting will be installed near the ravine on S. Barton St., which is a fairly dark area,” said Ed Miltenberger, President of the Columbia Heights Civic Association. For more information, area residents should attend a public meeting about the Columbia Heights project on Wednesday, August 19 at 7:00 pm at the Walter Reed Community Center.

Small Businesses in the News

The Pike will soon have its first wine bar and bottle shop, as Twisted Vines has signed a lease for the storefront at 2803 Columbia Pike, just off the intersection with S. Walter Reed Dr! Co-owners and Columbia Pike residents Josh & Sybil Robinson plan to offer 30 wines by the glass and over 100 bottles from small producers around the world along with light fare in a casually elegant environment. For more information click here. In the meantime you’ll also want to check out Manee Thai (at 2500 Columbia Pike) which is sporting a new mod look (but the same excellent cooking)! A new T-Mobile Wireless store at the Halstead Arlington (2922 Columbia Pike next to the new Lost Dog Café) has completed its interior construction and is awaiting their occupancy permit form the County. They are expecting to open in a matter of days. The Design Custom Kitchens/Virginia Marble & Granite showroom at 3213 Columbia Pike has closed, but proprietor and Pike resident Nathan Mathews is still available to assist you with your home improvement project. Click here for more information. Finally, Journey Yoga (2628 Columbia Pike) has begun offering a new class called “Gentle Yoga,” perfect for clients 55 and over, on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 11:15 am. For more information go to www.journeyoga.com.

Next Pike Business Networking Event Set For September 2! The next breakfast gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network will occur at the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse on September 2 from 8:00-9:30am. The special guest speaker will be Kelly Rindfusz, Arlington Economic Development’s Communications Director, who will discuss Arlington’s new ShopArlington retail program. These events, co-presented by CPRO and AED’s BizLaunch, offer businesses and start-up entrepreneurs a wonderful opportunity to network opportunity, promote their own businesses and develop new contacts. Thanks to the courtesy of our sponsors, Wachovia Bank, and the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse (www.arlingtondrafthouse.com), admission is FREE, but you must register. To view the flyer, click here. To register, click here, or contact Pam Holcomb at (703) 892-2776 or via email at pholcomb@columbiapike.org.

Infinity Apartments Grand Opening & Leasing Expo, August 14-16^th

Infinity Apartments, located on the Pike at 955 South Columbus Street, is holding their Grand Opening Celebration on Friday, August 14^th, 2009 from 4 PM – 7 PM and invite you to join them for hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Tour their brand new model and receive a Free Gift Card and Enter to Win $10,000 Free Rent! The Leasing Expo continues through August 16^th. For more information about Infinity Apartments, please visit their website at www.InfinityApts.com or call 866.977.0803.

Attention Shoppers and Businesses—Introducing Arlington’s New Retail Initiative and the ShopArlington Savings Card!

Here’s how it works: The new ShopArlington Savings Card is free and offers great savings from participating Arlington merchants. The cards can be downloaded from the ShopArlington website. Laminated cards will be distributed at the Arlington County Fair starting August 19th and will be available through CPRO, Arlington’s other neighborhood partnerships and Business Improvement Districts on an ongoing basis. Once you have your ShopArlington Savings Card, simply present it at any participating ShopArlington merchant and start saving! Go to the ShopArlington website and click on "Save Big Bucks" to see who is participating and what specials are being offered. Check the website often because new merchants are signing up every day and specials change. If you are an Arlington business, register now to participate in this program! This is a great--and free--way to get your business in front of more and more customers. For further information on merchant benefits and to sign up online to participate, go to www.shoparlington.org/merchant. If you need help with the registration process, call CPRO at 703-892-2776 or email pholcomb@columbiapike.org and we are happy to assist with or complete the registration process for you.

Consolidated Plan Community Forum to be Held on Saturday, September 26

Every five years, Arlington is required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to produce a new blueprint for developing affordable housing, preventing homelessness, ensuring fair housing, expanding economic opportunities, and improving neighborhoods. The public is invited to provide input to guide the direction of the Five Year Consolidated Plan for Fiscal Year 2011-2015 at a special Community Forum, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th Street South, Arlington, VA. For more information, click here .

Save the Date: Sunday, September 20 for Vintage Crystal Wine Festival!

CPRO is pleased to be partnering with the Crystal City Business Improvement District (BID) to present Vintage Crystal with a Latin Twist on Sunday, September 20 from 2-6pm at 220 20th St. S. Arlington VA 22202. Come taste 30 wines, foods provided by more than 20 local restaurants including the Pike’s Pan American Bakery, Salsa dance instructions and performances courtesy of The Salsa Room, live music, brief classes on the wines of Spain, Chile, and Argentina by CPRO’s own wine guru Jim Whittaker, and much more. From Tempranillo to Tequila, you’ll sip, taste, and salsa in style! Tickets are $20. For more information go to http://www.crystalcity.org/events/556/Vintage-Crystal.

Peaches, Corn, Tomatoes, & More Starring at Farmers Market!

The Columbia Pike Farmers Market, enjoying its best year ever, takes place each Sunday through November from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in Pike Park, at the corner of S. Walter Reed Dr. and Columbia Pike. You know about the great fresh local produce, organic meats, baked goods, milk, cheese, tea and honey. But, you’ll also want to visit with and buy the great offerings of Nate “Squeaky Clean” Whaley (Union Street Soapworks), “Java” Jessica (Hondo Coffee Co.) and “Sweet” Tim Douglas (Virginia Chocolate Co.) and many more. Once again, we are pleased to be partnering with the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) who is receiving donations of over 1000 pounds of unsold produce from our farmers each Sunday! For a full list of vendors who participate in our market click here.

Also, you can support local, sustainable agriculture by participating in “Farm to Table Month” (September 15 to October 15). Click here to learn more about the Local Food Local Chefs initiative and about participating restaurants.

Come Out and Enjoy the Arlington County Fair!

The County Fair runs from Wednesday August 19-Sunday 23 at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 South 2^nd St. The fair has something for everyone! Midway thrill rides and games; pony rides and a petting zoo, competitive exhibits, traditional and diverse food selections, arts & crafts, community resources! Don’t miss the performance by our very own Columbia Pike Community Chorus featuring Music from the Best of Broadway on the indoor stage on Saturday, August 22 at 8 PM. For more information about the fair, click here.

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July 2009 CPRO e-Newsletter

Two New Developments Win County Board Approval

On Saturday, July 11 the County Board unanimously approved two new Form Based Code compliant developments for the Columbia Pike Town Center area. Columbia Place, presented by developer John Gosnell, will be built on the empty lot between the 1100 block of S. Edgewood St. S. and S. Walter Reed Dr. behind the Rite Aid pharmacy. It will feature a small 5 story building on S. Walter Reed with 3,000 sq. ft. of ground floor retail and 14 two bedroom condominium units averaging 1,430 sq. ft. on the floors above. Facing a new piece of 11^th St. S. will be 3 townhouses, and facing S. Edgewood will be 5 townhouses. The 20 ft. wide townhouses will be 3 ½ stories tall, with rear loaded 2-car garages, and will average 2,400 sq. ft. Axumite Village will be developed by the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC) on property the non-profit owns at 1100 S. Highland St. It will be comprised of 12 townhouses, each split into 3 stacked flats. The 36 condominium units will vary from 800 sq. ft. English basements to more than 2,600 sq. ft. for the largest of the upper floor units. ECDC is seeking grant funding to make 6 of the units affordable to families with income of 60% of the area’s median income. CPRO Executive Director Jim Whittaker spoke in favor of the two projects. “These are attractive and creative in-fill developments that add to our mix of housing options on the Pike, and will help to enliven our Town Center area,” he said.

Pike Celebrates 14^th Annual Blues Festival!

Defying all weather forecasting odds, the Columbia Pike Community came out in droves to enjoy their annual Blues Festival on a pleasant early summer afternoon. Event staff and volunteers were soaked in heavy rain all morning as they completed their set-up duties, but the skies cleared and the festival’s bands were able to perform under dry weather for seven full hours. The crowd, estimated at 4,000 people, enjoyed the music of five great bands, delicious foods provided by Big Daddy’s BBQ, Rincome Thai Restaurant, Bob & Edith’s Diner, Restaurante Abi, and others, a variety of wines, and beer from Yuengling—America’s oldest brewery. Attendees also enjoyed the involvement of community groups, arts & crafts vendors, and fun childrens’ activities. Deja Blue, Paul Mark & the Van Dorens, Danny Blew & the Blues Crew and Nadine Rae & the Allstars offered a wonderful array of Blues sounds, and then headliner Memphis Gold brought down the house with a rousing final set. CPRO was proud to once again present the festival with the support of a number of business, government, and non-profit organizations. Special thanks go to the Washington Forrest Foundation, Arlington Commuter Service’s Pike Ride, and Yuengling Beer for serving as our primary sponsors. Thanks also to Dorchester Towers, Dorchester Apartments, Westmont Gardens, and Oakland Apartments of Columbia Pike; Silverwood Companies; Fillmore Gardens; the Dittmar Company; Heritage Property Co.; Woodfield Investments; Edgemoor Real Estate Services; B.M. Smith & Associates; and others for their generous support. CPRO is also grateful to the more than 40 individuals and small businesses who became “Friends of the Blues Festival” and provided greatly needed contributions. Special thanks also to the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse, ECDC, BB&T Bank, and Arlington’s Office of Offender Aid & Restoration for providing great volunteers! Way to go Columbia Pike!

Option to purchase Buchanan Gardens Secured by APAH

This spring the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH) secured the option to purchase Buchanan Gardens, located at 914 S. Buchanan St., about ½ block north of Columbia Pike in the Barcroft neighborhood. This aging property currently houses 111 low- and moderate-income households. APAH’s proposal to purchase Buchanan Gardens is a wonderful opportunity for the County to preserve affordable housing along Columbia Pike and APAH is currently working to secure financing for the acquisition. “We are optimistic about our ability to purchase Buchanan Gardens to preserve it as committed affordable housing,” explains APAH’s President/CEO, Nina Janopaul. “The seller is being extremely patient and supportive as we work with the many stakeholders involved in affordable housing, including Arlington County, to make this purchase successful.” The Barcroft School and Civic League (BSCL) passed a resolution this month supporting APAH’s purchase of Buchanan Gardens, noting that Buchanan Gardens has been identified as needing improvements by the BSCL’s Conservation Plan for the past ten years. If the project goes forward, Buchanan Gardens would be APAH’s second Pike area property. APAH has already made significant renovations and upgrades to Columbia Grove, a mixed-income property located at 1010 S. Frederick St.

Exciting Art Show Coming to The Halstead, August 29-September 5

Mark your calendars now because you won’t want to miss The ZIP Code Show, an exhibition about artists and their relationships with their surroundings. The show runs August 29-September 5 at The Halstead Arlington (1028 South Walter Reed Drive). A reception will be held on the show’s opening and last nights (Saturday August 29 from 5:30 pm to 12:00 am, and Saturday September 5 from 5:00 to 10:00 pm. This offering is from artdc.org and Art Outlet is being presented in partnership with Halstead Arlington and CPRO. For those interested in having their art considered for the exhibition, registration is FREE and runs through July 31. For more information, go to artdc.org or Art Outlet.

Planning Underway for Pike’s 200^th Anniversary

April 12, 2010 will mark the bicentennial of the date Congress chartered the construction of the “Columbia Turnpike,” and local activists and history buffs are beginning to make plans to celebrate the anniversary. Branded as “Pike 200,” the initiative is likely to result in a series of events and activities. CPRO Board member and Douglas Park Civic Association President, John Snyder, has taken the lead for the effort. A current focus is to pull together as much of the Pike’s history as possible. Snyder said they would like to set up both a web-based and physical repository of information and items that describe and depict the Pike’s evolution. The Virginia Room at the Arlington Central Library has agreed to house items that are collected. Specific events have not yet been planned. People with questions or ideas may contact CPRO at 703-892-2776.

Contract Awarded for Streetscape Engineering and Streetcar Planning Arlington County Board recently approved a contract award to Kimley-Horn and Associates to provide transportation engineering services for the Columbia Pike Multimodal Improvement Project. The contract will entail preliminary environmental documentation and design planning for the entire length of Columbia Pike from the Fairfax County line to S. Joyce St. The multimodal roadway design will accommodate and be coordinated with the implementation of the planned Columbia Pike streetcar. The anticipated duration of this phase of the project is approximately 24 months. During this time, Arlington and Fairfax Counties will continue to examine ways to fund, construct, operate and maintain the proposed streetcar system. As reported earlier on CPRO’s website, the environmental documentation is expected to meet both state requirements and federal requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act, which in turn will allow the streetcar project to qualify for federal funding, if available. The study will also more accurately estimate the streetcar’s construction costs.

New Homes Coming to Long Time Vacant Lot on S. Glebe Rd.

The Evergreene Companies will build four luxury custom homes on the now empty lot at 7th St. and S. Glebe Rd, across from the Arlington United Methodist Church (the former owner of the property). Each of the two-level homes in "Columbia Green" will include an unfinished basement, a two-car garage, and are designed to blend in with the existing neighborhood. The homes will also be Energy Star Certified and Qualified and therefore substantially more energy efficient than homes built to the minimum code requirements. Current plans call for breaking ground during the month of August, with an expected 4-5 month build-out. For more information contact Debby James at debby@theevergreenecompanies.com or call 703-667-7878.

Pike Area Summer Fun for Everyone!

The Columbia Pike Blues Festival is over but there are still lots of fun events going on!

v Free Outdoor Concerts with a Great View. If you haven’t already discovered this gem, check out the free outdoor concerts performed on Wednesday and Friday evenings through the month of August by the talented ensembles of the Air Force Band at the Air Force Memorial (1 Air Force Drive). For example, this month you can hear performed by the Air Force Strings the musical programs of Simply Vivaldi (July 15) and A Little Night Music (July 17). The Concert Band and Singing Sergeants will be performing Going West (July 22), Made in America (July 24), and The Best of Classic Broadway (July 31). For more information, go to www.usafband.af.mil or call the Band’s concert line at 202-767-5658.

v Free Outdoor Festivals. Enjoy the Festival Peruano on Sunday July 26 from 11 am-6 pm at Shirley Park/Gunston Sports Field, 2700 South Lang Street, and the Equadorial Festival on Sunday August 9, from 11 am to 6 pm at Barcroft Park. Both offer traditional dance and music performances, cuisine, crafts and free admission.

v Free Special Activities for Kids at the Columbia Pike Library. As part of the Arlington County Public Library’s Get Caught Reading program (intended for rising kindergarteners through 5^th grade), The Maryland Science Center’s performance on July 22 at 7 pm, and Bob Brown and his Second-Hand Stars Puppet Show August 5 at 7 pm will be presented at the Columbia Pike Library (816 S. Walter Reed Drive). For the younger set, there is also a special Get Caught Listening Storytimes program for preschoolers at different county libraries during the month of July. These are offered at the Columbia Pike Library on Thursdays at 11:00 am. Registration is not required for either of these programs.

Pike Small Business News

Sherwin-Williams, the well established home decorating and paint store, has opened at 3411 South 5th Street (formerly home to Video Warehouse) at the intersection with S. Glebe Rd. The store is open Monday through Saturday and can be reached at 703-527-8586. A new Cricket Wireless store has opened in Westmont Shopping Center at 3529 Columbia Pike at the intersection with S. Glebe Rd. The new store occupies the 1500 sq. ft. space next to the former Hollywood Video. Cricket is a pioneer and market leader in providing affordable wireless services. Sonic Sound, formerly at 4615 Columbia Pike, has moved to 32 S. Glebe Road. Sonic Sound offers car audio systems and other car accessories and services. The new store can be reached at 703-820-0085.

Entrepreneurship Classes for Working Adults Now Available

Through an exciting collaborative effort between the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College and ECDC Enterprise Development Group, a new Career Studies Certificate Program in Entrepreneurship has been established and is now accepting students. These classes are held specifically for working adults who wish to start and/or grow a small business by focusing on instruction in entrepreneurial culture, strategy, operations, financial management, marketing and leadership. All courses are taught using a mixture of in-class and online methods in a six-to-eight week semester format so that the program can be completed in about one year. Within that year, students can take only the courses that they want, or all nine courses and graduate with a certificate. The first class will start on August 24, 2009 and will be held on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:30 pm-8:30 pm at 901 S. Highland Street Arlington, VA 22204. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. For more information about the Career Studies Certificate Program in Entrepreneurship contact Dannell Shugart at 703-778-9925 or Dannelle.Shugart@ecdcinternational.org

CPRO Welcomes New Interns!

Through the PRIME internship program at our local Arlington Career Center, CPRO is pleased to welcome two full time interns, Maddie Greenfield and Patricia Murray, who are will be supporting the organization this summer. They are both rising seniors, Greenfield from H-B Woodlawn and Murray from Washington-Lee High School. While at CPRO they have performed a wide range of tasks from organizing the pamphlets and other public information at the office’s front counter, and stuffing thank you packages to blues festival sponsors, to organizing the website’s “Business Directory” and outlining an inventory of the offerings at all the local grocery stores. The wide array of tasks keeps “the internship exciting and new, while also making it possible to learn new things about Columbia Pike daily,” says Murray.

Local Grocery Stores Provide Alternative Options

As we have all seen, the Penrose Square Project is well underway! Though this is exciting progress, Columbia Pike residents have now been without their Giant grocery store for close to three months. Many residents have started making the trek out to the closest Harris Teeter or Safeway to do their grocery shopping, but the Pike has numerous small grocers that offer a large variety of goods. The CVS (2601 Columbia Pike) has a large selection of milk, both regular and organic, white and chocolate, and carries eggs. The Rite Aid (2820 Columbia Pike) carries many types of frozen meals, along with family-sized frozen pizzas. Bangkok 54 Oriental Food Market (2927 Columbia Pike) is a great choice for produce, as it carries avocado, mangos, and eggplant along with many other types of fresh produce. Columbia Pike is home to a number of Ethiopian grocery stores, including Asni Supermarket (1045 S. Edgewood St.) and Lideta Gebaya (2630 Columbia Pike), which have wonderful selections of spices and large amounts of Ethiopian bread, injera. The newly opened M&R Grocery (2609 Columbia Pike) has many types of canned goods, rice, tortillas, other staples; and Atilla’s Turkish Grocery (2705 Columbia Pike) offers various kinds and quantities of cheese, lentils, and other middle eastern goods. The K-1 Dairy Store (2516 Columbia Pike) provides a large selection of canned soups and carries a small quantity of produce. The Aladdin Halal Market (2524 Columbia Pike) on the back side of Arlington Village Shopping Center sells many kinds of meat, from organic chicken to veal. Check out these interesting neighborhood markets!

Youth Baseball Tourney Comes to the Pike

Arlington Babe Ruth is hosting the Southeast Regional under-10 baseball tournament at Barcroft Park. The tournament will be held from Thursday July 23 through Sunday July 26, with state champions from Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, along with a team from the Bahamas, and the Arlington Rebels. The champion advances to the under-10 World Series tournament.

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