Alexandria, Kingstowne and Springfield Virginia real estate listings, home buying, selling and relocation information

LOCATION
The seaport of Alexandria, in Arlington County, Northern Virginia, lies west across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. Alexandria is just north of I-95 on Route-1 and south east of I-395 (also on Route-1). Washington D.C. is six miles north on I-395; Mount Vernon is nine miles south on Route-1. The George Washington Memorial Parkway links the region; it runs from Washington National Airport, becomes Washington Street, and passes through downtown Alexandria. I-95 runs from north to south. Going north, it links Alexandria and the district capitol with Philadelphia, PA and New York, NY; to the south lie Richmond, VA, and Miami, FL. Philadelphia is only 155 miles away; the nearest city with a population of over a million. Arlington is just over 5 miles north of Alexandria; nearby towns to the south include: Huntington (1.1miles), Belle Haven (2.7 miles), Groveton (3.1 miles), Rose Hill (3.2 miles), Bailey's Crossroads (4.6 miles), Hybla Valley (4.8 miles), and Forest Heights, (5.1 miles). Springfield is around 8 miles west of Alexandria on I-95.

TRANSPORTATION/AIRPORTS
Alexandria is highly accessible by air. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is about 4 miles north on the George Washington Parkway and the Washington Dulles International is about 28 miles north in Washington D.C. Andrews Air Force Base (home to Air Force 1,) is open for normal operations in nearby Camp Springs, MD?and under 10 minutes from Alexandria. The Alexandria Transit Company (Dash) runs an excellent bus service and a "Dash About" free weekend shuttle from the town's King Street Station to stops throughout the Old Town along Alexandria's riverbank. The extensive Metrorail subway system connects King Street Station to Washington D.C. and other towns in the area.

BRIEF HISTORY
Alexandria was founded by the Virginia General Assembly in 1749, in response to local farmers who were lobbying for a shipping community. Almost 50 years older than the City of Washington, the town is one of America's most historic settlements. John West, Fairfax County surveyor, put aside 60 acres, and separated these into lots which were sold at auction. (Local history has it that a 17 year old George Washington aided him!)The Assembly named Alexandria after the land's first European owner, Scotsman John Alexander, who purchased it from the Indians in 1669 for "six thousand pounds of Tobacco and Cask." It didn't take long for Alexandria to become a bustling port. Brigs and schooners bought trade goods from up and down the coast, and foreign vessels were laden with valuables from Europe like window glass and household china.

The town was incorporated in 1779, and by that time it was a major export center for locally grown flour and hemp. The streets were lined with substantial brick houses and buildings were going up rapidly. In 1796, a visitor enthused: "Alexandria is beyond all comparison the handsomest town in Virginia?indeed is among the finest in the United States." Alexandria was ceded from Virginia in 1789 to become part of a newly created district; this was reversed in 1847 and in 1852, the town acquired city status and gained a new charter. By the time of the Civil War, Alexandria was one of America's most important trading centers and ports, and was of strategic importance both militarily and to the slave trade. Countless slaves were traded and sold in the market; despite this, several free black communities were established with strong and supportive collective and fraternal organizations. Many local African-Americans were expert artisans.

The City was occupied by the Union military forces on May 24, 1861, immediately becoming a logistical supply center for the federal army. Several forts were constructed in defense of Washington, including the restored Fort Ward. Alexandria was the capital of the Restored Government of Virginia (representing the seven Virginia counties remaining under federal control) from 1863 until 1865. The post war period saw a gradual return to prosperity, and in the 1960's locals rallied to push for the preservation of Alexandria's historic sites and preservation of the Old Town. The WWI and II Torpedo Factory on the banks of the Potomac was renovated in the late 1970's and early 1980's, and surrounded by a marina, shops, public parks and walkways, restaurants, residences, and offices.

POPULATION
Around 128,300 people make Alexandria their home.

ABOUT EDUCATION
Alexandria City Public School District embraces 13 elementary schools (K-5), 2 middle schools, a specialized ninth grade school, a high school, and an alternative high school. There are also a range of private and parochial schools in the City, including a Montessori School in the Old Town, the Islamic Saudi Academy, and several Christian schools.

The School District has been recognized as one of the most technology-rich in Virginia, with a computer for every 3 students and high speed Internet connections from virtually every room. Student to teacher ratios are low (an average of 20-23 students per teacher) and competitive salaries attract committed and talented staff.

Schools are equipped with computer labs, digital video production facilities, and full-time tech support staff. Innovative programs include the "Primary Initiative" which has dramatically improved K, 1 and 2 level student performances in reading and math regardless of ethnicity or family wealth. City schools do well on SAT scores. Over five years, Alexandria's verbal scores have increased by 12 points, while Virginia's have increased by 6 points, and the national average has increased by 2 points. Alexandria's math scores have increased 15 points over five years, while state and national scores have increased 11 and 8 points, respectively. 67% of test takers were from minority groups, compared with 34% in the state and 36% in the nation. A high percentage of students from low income families also took the SAT test (36% took the test, compared to Virginia's 18% and the nation's 23%).

Alexandrians are spoiled for choice when it comes to university. Local facilities comprise the excellent Strayer University and the Tesst Technological Institute, a Protestant Seminary and a center for employment training. George Washington University is about 6 miles away in Washington D.C.; others include: Georgetown University (7 miles), Howard University (7 miles), Marymount University (8 miles), University of the District of Columbia (9 miles), American University (9 miles) and the Catholic University of America (10 miles).

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT AREA?
Ladies Home Journal rated Alexandria number one in its "Top 10 List of America's Best Cities for Women", based on criteria chosen by readers: low-crime rate, pleasant lifestyle, great public schools, plentiful job opportunities, and quality health- and child-care. Alexandria has the added attraction of being a beautiful town with a rich history. Its tree-lined streets accommodate many lovely 18th and 19th Century buildings, protected by strict architectural and demolition controls. The riverside Old Town has 18th century cobblestone streets and brick sidewalks, lined with many interesting historic sites and museums, specialty shops, first-rate restaurants, hotels and festivals, great public sculpture and parks, and street performers; attracting more than 1.5 million visitors yearly. Tourism is not the only draw; Alexandria's geographic location and responsive city planning has made it a popular location for business headquarters. A Triple A Rating means lower taxes for residents, a thriving economy brings opportunities, and a school system that places importance on opportunities for minority groups and poor gives greater prospects to many.

LOCATION
Kingstowne is a planned community in Fairfax County, west of the Potomac River and south of downtown Alexandria. Route-1 to the east and Hwy-611 to the west both lead north to nearby I-495, the Capital Beltway, which runs in a circular route around the entire Washington D.C. region and passes through the capital. Washington D.C is about 8 miles east and Springfield is 5 minutes drive west. Kingstowne is less than 2 miles from the "Mixing Bowl" (where I-95, I-395, and I-495 converge Southwest of Washington, D.C.) which is being expanded at the Springfield Interchange . Kingstowne is so desirable for many reasons. It's 1/2 way between the Pentagon and Ft. Belvoir. It has a strong sense of community. The amenities are very hard to beat: pools, professional gyms, aerobics studio and karate classes, tennis, walking trails, 18 tot lots, 3 Community Centers each with rooms that can be rented out for special occasions, and the Friday farmer's market and Concert Series in the summer. The Town Center features shopping, restaurants, and a new 16 theatre movie complex that is now open. Close to everything and a great "community feel"----that's Kingstowne.

TRANSPORTATION/AIRPORTS
Kingstowne is highly convenient to the area's major airports. The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is about 8 miles north and the Washington Dulles International is about 28 miles northwest. Andrews Air Force Base is about 18 miles northeast in Maryland. Close proximity to the Franconia-Springfield and Van Dorn Street stations on the Metrorail provides a convenient commute to the area's major employment centers.

BRIEF HISTORY
Previously a rural area covered with farms, Kingstowne is now an incorporated community. The Town Center and new amenities are growing all the time. Nevertheless, the land on which it stands has an interesting history. In 1649, King Charles II of England granted all of the land between the Rappahannock and Potomac rivers to a group of seven Englishmen. In 1719 the sixth Lord Fairfax bought it, and by 1732 there were attempts to form the land into a county. Finally in 1741 the Virginia Assembly did so, naming it after Lord Fairfax. The last half of the 18th century saw rapid development as more and more forest was cleared for farmland and areas were allotted for housing development. Proximity to the nation's capital has meant that the Kingstowne area has always been close to the action. As the area's economy has expanded with federal government and private business growth, so has the need for more housing.

POPULATION
Kingstowne is home to over 5100 homes. 2 more single-family homes communities will be built, one in the North Village, and one in the South Village. Call us for the latest details.

ABOUT EDUCATION
Kingstowne has brand new Island Creek Elementary and a new preschool, the Chesterbrook Academy, which began enrolling in April 2000; older children attend schools in nearby Springfield and Alexandria. Fairfax County Public Schools runs a comprehensive program from daycare through elementary, middle and high school, to adult education. The School District has four excellent alternative high schools and an alternative learning center for students with disciplinary issues. An "Advancement via Individual Determination" (AVID) program is available for students who have the desire and potential to attend college, but who could benefit from regular in-school academic support and immersion in a culture of achievement. Both middle and high school students who are selected for this program take the AVID course, Scholastic Preparation for College-Bound Students, and a rigorous course of study intended to prepare them for four-year college enrollment. The "College Partnership" program partners the school system with colleges and universities, businesses, parents, and community organizations to help selected students develop the academic and personal skills required for college entrance. Nearby universities include: the George Washington University ( about 8 miles away in Washington D.C.), Georgetown University, Howard University, Marymount University, University of the District of Columbia, American University and the Catholic University of America.

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT AREA?
Currently, Kingstowne is the hottest real estate market south of Washington D.C. Residents are attracted to the many housing and job opportunities the town offers. Its clean, tree-lined streets, fresh looking homes and green parks appeal to would-be homeowners, who appreciate the consistent job the association does on landscaping and giving Kingstowne the classy and well-cared-for look. A good public transport system brings the excitement of the capital and nearby Alexandria close to home, and expands employment prospects; a prosperous and stable local economy that is rich in tourist and business dollars will continue to grow into the future.

LOCATION
Springfield is in the southeast portion of Fairfax County, Virginia, inland from the west bank of the Potomac River. Just off the "Mixing Bowl" (where I-95, I-395, and I-495 converge), Springfield is extremely convenient to those working in Washington D.C, the Pentagon, or Fort Belvoir, as well as surrounding communities. Washington D.C. is just over 13 miles southwest on I-95 and I-395; Annandale is less than 4 miles north. Alexandria is about 8 miles east on I-95. Nearby communities consist of North Springfield (2.2 miles), Franconia (2.7 miles), Lincolnia (3.2 miles), West Springfield (3.7 miles), Annandale (3.8 miles), Newington (4.0 miles), Lake Barcroft (4.6 miles), and Rose Hill (4.8 miles). I-95 runs from north to south, connecting Philadelphia, PA (162 miles north) with Richmond, VA, and Miami, FL. Currently, the Mixing Bowl's Springfield Interchange is undergoing major development.

TRANSPORTATION/AIRPORTS
The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is 11 miles north of Springfield and the Washington Dulles International is about 22 miles northwest. Andrews Air Force Base is about 22 miles northeast in Maryland. Smaller public-use airports include: South Capitol Street (14 miles east in Washington D.C.), Maryland (16 miles northeast in Indian Head, MD), and the Potomac Airfield (17 miles in Friendly, MD). The MetroRail subway's blue line runs between Franconia/Springfield and Largo Town Center, passing through downtown Alexandria and Washington D.C., which is a hub for lines to many towns in the area. The TAGS bus service operates within central Springfield and was recently awarded a $350,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to continue service. Representative Jim Moran said TAGS makes the business district more accessible to low-income residents, as well as many "reverse commuters" who travel to work via Metro.

BRIEF HISTORY
The city of Springfield was conceived of in 1946, when realtor Edward Carr noticed that it was the last accessible tract of undeveloped farmland within a 12-mile zone around Washington D.C. By 1952, the pressure was on for new housing as the federal government expanded employment to meet the needs of veterans and staff Cold War programs, and service industries grew up to assist them. The first sewer and water lines were installed and building and zoning plans were finally approved. By 1955, 2000 houses had been built. Springfield was soon established as a city with abundant retail and services, but it has remained a primarily residential area for workers who commute the short distance to the capitol and its environs. The federal government continued to stimulate Springfield's economic and population growth throughout the 1970s and 1980s, but private economic interests came to play an even greater role. Due to private industry's increasing need to understand and monitor federal actions aimed at the marketplace, many corporations and industry groups chose to have a presence in the D.C area. Fairfax County's growth and Springfield's responsive city planning attracted many firms and organizations to set up in the City.

POPULATION
Springfield has around 30,500 residents.

ABOUT EDUCATION
Springfield has 8 public elementary schools, 2 middle schools and 2 high schools, and a variety of private learning options, including 2 Montessori kindergartens and several Christian schools. Fairfax County Schools also serve more than 61,000 adults in 229 facilities annually. The School District has one of the largest and most versatile volunteer programs in the country. Business, military, and government organizations form partnerships with individual schools to mentor students, train teachers, run career day programs, and tutor special needs students. Springfield is home to the Maryland Drafting Institute, a private college; nearby higher education options include: Northern Virginia Community College (about 4 miles away in Annandale), Marymount University (9 distant in Arlington), George Mason University (12 miles in Fairfax), George Washington University, American University, University Of The District Of Columbia, and Georgetown University (all around 13 miles away in Washington, D.C.).

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT AREA?
Springfield's primary attractions are its location and affordability, and its suitability for family life. Easy access to I-95, the Capital Beltway, the George Washington Parkway, and the commuter rail, makes Springfield a popular choice for commuters working in the capital and surrounding areas. A wide range of housing makes the City an affordable home, which is attractive to families. Local services are family-orientated: Springfield has excellent schools, quiet tree lined residential streets with many neighborhood parks, a regional mall and wide range of shopping, and great golf courses and recreational areas,including the beautiful Lake Accotink Park.

About the Washington D.C./Northern Virginia, Alexandria, Kingstowne, Springfield, and Lorton Virginia Area

Alexandria

Kingstowne

Springfield

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