Changes Coming to Old Town North: A Look at What’s Next for Alexandria’s Evolving Arts District
Major changes are underway in Old Town North as redevelopment continues to transform the neighborhood into a more active, connected, and arts-focused community. The City of Alexandria’s Urban Design Advisory Committee (UDAC), which oversees development proposals in the Old Town North Arts and Cultural District, recently hosted a walking tour highlighting some of the key projects that are shaping the area’s future.
Originally outlined in the 2017 Old Town North Small Area Plan, the city’s vision for the neighborhood focuses on creating a vibrant, mixed-use district that integrates residential, retail, and arts spaces while improving walkability and sustainability. The plan emphasizes strong urban design standards, enhanced public spaces, and a mix of housing options to make the neighborhood more inclusive and dynamic.
Since the plan’s adoption, several major redevelopment projects have been approved and are under construction—many incorporating art and cultural components to reflect the area’s identity. Here’s a look at some of the major updates highlighted during UDAC’s annual walking tour:
TideLock – 1033 N. Fairfax Street
Currently under construction, TideLock is one of the most anticipated developments in Old Town North. Approved in 2021 as part of the redevelopment of the former TransPotomac Plaza site, the project includes 65 condominiums, 170 apartments, and 5,000 square feet of arts space with an adjoining café. The design preserves an existing pedestrian throughway as a public open space, with an emphasis on maintaining tree coverage and green connections throughout the block. A Perfect Pita location is also set to open at the corner of North Fairfax and First Street.
Montgomery Center Redevelopment
Encompassing an entire city block, the Montgomery Center redevelopment will bring a mix of residential, retail, and arts spaces to Old Town North. The project includes 327 residential units, 22 affordable housing units, 25,263 square feet of retail, and 13,321 square feet of arts and cultural space. Two publicly accessible plazas and upgraded streetscapes will enhance walkability, while sustainable features such as a 3,000-square-foot solar roof and LEED Silver certification underline the city’s commitment to green design. Construction is expected to begin next year.
425 Montgomery Street
Plans for 425 Montgomery Street call for a mixed-use development featuring ground-floor retail, including Grazie Nonna and For Five Coffee, residential units, and a new public park for neighborhood residents. The project continues the city’s focus on open space, connectivity, and active street-level design.
The Ladrey Redevelopment
The Ladrey building is set for a major transformation to provide affordable housing for seniors (55+) and individuals with disabilities. The plan includes two new public open spaces with integrated art features, widened sidewalks, and more street trees to enhance the pedestrian experience. The building’s 3,000-square-foot rooftop solar array will contribute to the city’s sustainability goals.
Robinson Terminal North
One of the last major undeveloped waterfront parcels in Old Town, Robinson Terminal North is a 3.2-acre site spanning two blocks that has been approved for redevelopment. The plan calls for two mixed-use buildings with approximately 73 dwelling units, three restaurants, and over an acre of public open space along the Potomac River. The site, formerly an industrial/warehouse property, requires soil remediation and will be transformed into a high-end waterfront destination with strong public-space and pedestrian-focused design elements.
For real estate marketing and positioning, Robinson Terminal North signals a significant upcoming upgrade to Old Town North’s waterfront, creating a new destination for dining, recreation, and luxury living.
The Venue – 925 N. Fairfax Street
Completed in 2023, The Venue was the first development endorsed by UDAC under the 2017 plan. Built on the site of the former Crowne Plaza Hotel, the project includes 41 townhomes and luxury condominiums. A public easement is reserved for a future arts or theater space, with plans still under discussion. The Venue set the standard for the type of design and mixed-use vision the city hopes to replicate throughout the district.
532 Yoga & Contemporary Art Space
A familiar name in the community, Susan’s Yoga Studio is expanding its longtime presence on North Washington Street with a new arts component curated by local gallerist Natalie, who also owns The Art Loft. The renovated space will feature rotating exhibits of contemporary Cuban art, along with weekly yoga, meditation, and sound bath classes. Approved through a special use permit, this project represents the growing integration of arts and wellness in Old Town North’s cultural district.
Muse – 1201 N. Royal Street
Approved by City Council in 2019, Muse includes both luxury condominiums and an arts and cultural space totaling 5,000 square feet. The Art League of Alexandria occupies the ground-floor studio, offering classes in stained glass, painting, drawing, and photography—all rent-free under the project’s cultural use requirements. Muse will also host community events, including an upcoming holiday festival on December 5 that will feature live art demonstrations at both the Muse building and nearby Slaters Lane studio.
Together, these projects represent the next phase of Old Town North’s evolution. The area is quickly emerging as a destination for art, dining, and modern living—while maintaining ties to its historic character. Each project contributes to the city’s goal of creating a walkable, inclusive, and culturally rich neighborhood along Alexandria’s north waterfront.
The Urban Design Advisory Committee continues to play a central role in shaping this transformation, ensuring that every new project aligns with the community’s long-term vision for a thriving Old Town North.