As spring approaches in Alexandria, residents are encouraged to explore new activities and participate in the city’s sustainability initiatives. The City of Alexandria is promoting programs aimed at energy efficiency, electric vehicle (EV) adoption, and community engagement as part of its ongoing Eco-City efforts.
Ryan Freed, Climate Action Officer, stated, “Take some time over the next month to explore something new about Eco-City Alexandria. Sign up for a Capital Bikeshare membership and move along our trails and bike lanes with ease on an e-bike… Our Eco-City Businesses are here to give you great products, good food, amazing service, and all while improving our environment and preserving Eco-City Alexandria.”
Residents can take advantage of free virtual energy audits offered by Dominion and additional programs from Community House Partners that provide home energy checkups for qualifying individuals. Conducting an energy checkup also contributes points toward recognition as an Eco-City Home.
The city has announced a partnership with EcoAction Arlington to offer a free programmable Wi-Fi thermostat or home energy kit to anyone who submits an application through the Eco-City Homes program. The initiative is open to renters, condo owners, and homeowners. Supplies are limited.
For those interested in EVs but lacking private charging options, the City Council approved a Curbside Electric Vehicle Charging program on February 21, 2026. This program will allow qualified vendors to install up to 60 public curbside chargers across Alexandria during the first two years at no cost to the city. Vendors will be responsible for installation and maintenance. After this period, the city will evaluate performance data before considering further expansion.
Eco-City Businesses can apply for a free EV charging feasibility assessment if they have access to off-street parking. Applications are accepted until March 31, 2026.
Nominations are now open for the Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award until March 16, 2026. The award recognizes individuals or organizations demonstrating environmental leadership in Alexandria. The recipient will be honored at Del Ray GardenFest during Earth Month celebrations in April.
The Virginia Department of Health issued a Recreational Water Advisory on February 13 due to recent sewage spills in the Potomac River. Residents are advised against swimming or other water activities involving full-body submersion until repairs are completed in four to six weeks.
Next month, applications will open for the Eco-City Advocates Grant supporting community-based organizations advancing sustainability and environmental justice within Alexandria.
In addition to these initiatives, local businesses like UpCycle Creative Reuse Center continue efforts toward sustainability by repurposing donated materials into art supplies for community use. Executive Director Kathryn Amberg described their center as “a hub of conservation-meets-creativity, where people can go to donate items, shop for materials, learn about creative reuse, and get inspired to create.” She added that being an Eco-City Business means they “are proud to be leading by example” and aim “to help engage the community in everyday sustainability.”
Alexandria’s approach incorporates racial and social equity into its policies and decisions as part of fostering fair outcomes for all residents (official website). The city operates under a council-manager government system where services are provided within its independent boundaries (official website).
Isis Covington from the Race and Social Equity Office commented on her role: “Our office believes that an equitable city makes an excellent city, and that absolutely involves the need to have a city that address environmental racism and climate concerns.” She expressed excitement about advancing policies centered on staff and resident well-being.
Upcoming events include meetings of various commissions such as Planning Commission Public Hearing (March 3), Board of Architectural Review (March 4), Housing Affordability Advisory Committee (March 5), Environmental Planning Commission (March 16), Waterfront Commission Meeting (March 17), among others.
Alexandria continues efforts in historical preservation through museums like the Alexandria Black History Museum (official website) while also partnering with agencies for archaeological research (official website). These activities contribute to maintaining community identity by interpreting local history (official website).
For more information on these programs or upcoming opportunities related to sustainability or community engagement in Alexandria visit the city’s official website.
