The temperatures and the leaves are starting to fall, making this the perfect time of year to hike through one of Arlington's most forested neighborhoods: Donaldson Run. Bounded on two sides by open space, Donaldson Run includes a system of parks that follows the stream after which the area was named.
The neighborhood of Donaldson Run was developed in the 1940s-1950s, but the character of the community remains shaped by the parks and the trees that shade the homes and yards.
In fact, some of Arlington's most "notable trees" are located here. Many of these trees were planted more than fifty years ago, and residents treasure them for their environmental and aesthetic benefits.
Why not print out a copy of WALKArlington's Donaldson Run Walkabout map and see the benefits for yourself?! The 1.5 mile route will give you a glimpse of the fleeting colors of fall, before all the trees are bare.
Speaking of Arlington trees, click here to download a brochure on the County's Notable Tree program, as well as the list of designated trees by zip code to help you locate the notable trees in Donaldson Run and throughout the County.
Two Great Streets Run Through It
Earlier this month, the American Planning Association (APA) announced that Arlington's own Wilson and Clarendon Boulevards have been designated as one of ten "Great Streets" for 2008, through APA's Great Places in America program! APA "Great Places" exemplify exceptional character and highlight the role played by planners and planning in creating communities of lasting value.
"The efforts of the community and local officials during the 1960s to get Metro routed through the commercial and business areas of Arlington shows the lasting value such planning and foresighted decisions create for a community," said APA Executive Director Paul Farmer.
Clarendon has undergone significant changes since that 1960s decision to build Metro beneath Wilson and Clarendon Boulevards. The number of jobs and office square footage in the area has quadrupled and the transportation and commercial corridor of Arlington's original "urban village" has been revitalized with shops, restaurants, and residences. At the same time, sidewalks and safety features have been enhanced to accommodate increasing numbers of pedestrians.
Those of you who joined us on last month's Car-Free Day Clarendon Walkabout have seen this from the ground up. For those of you who haven't visited these great streets of late, go on a Clarendon Walkabout and get a head start on holiday shopping!
Walk Don't Run
Further along the Orange Line corridor from Clarendon is Rosslyn, where several large-scale, mixed-use developments are now under way. The construction of a new Rosslyn Metrorail station entrance, Central Place, and 1812 North Moore Street in the heart of one of Arlington's busiest neighborhoods will impact vehicle, transit, and pedestrian traffic for the foreseeable future.
During construction, Arlington County will implement traffic safety and other measures to help pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers navigate the area. To keep safe, residents and visitors need to stay informed and pay attention to signs about road and sidewalk closures, as well as alternate pedestrian routes.
Start with these 10 important pedestrian safety tips:
1. Before crossing, look left, right, then left again.
2. Cross the street at marked intersections or pedestrian routes.
3. Use pedestrian push buttons on traffic signals where available.
4. Know the pedestrian traffic signals and begin crossing the street only on the “Walk” signal.
5. Stay visible in the early morning, after dark, and in bad weather.
6. Be aware of bicycle as well as vehicular traffic.
7. Watch out for vehicles making turns, especially right turns at a red light.
And especially around construction sites...
8. Watch out for trucks and buses backing out of parking spaces and driveways.
9. Stay alert for vehicles entering or exiting the construction site or underground garages.
10. Cross the street and use the opposite sidewalk as directed when sidewalks are closed.
These projects will ultimately redefine Rosslyn's skyline, revitalize its street life, and help make important public improvements to the neighborhood. Maybe when all this is done, the American Planning Association's Great Places program will recognize Rosslyn as well!
For project updates, check out CommuterPage: www.commuterpage.com/art/projects/rosslyn_station.htm
Ultra-Runner Crosses Virginia
Local ultra-runner Ben Davis and his sponsors invite you to cheer him on as he makes his way through Virginia along the Appalachian Trail, part of a 2,175 mile run to raise funds for ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).
Ben is Assistant General Manager of the Carlyle restaurant in Shirlington, where he met Bill Jackson, one of several individuals who inspired the event known as 2175 for ALS. Ben also has experience in Triathlon and ultramarathons.
The 60-day journey began on September 21 in Maine. Averaging 20-30 miles per day, Ben has completed 1,086 miles in 39 days. He expects to enter Virginia by November 1.
Ben is wearing a GPS device that enables supporters to track his progress. To check on Ben and find out more about the ALS Association, visit the website www.2175forALS.com or contact camilajones@2175forALS.com. Each day is being run in honor of a different hero who has been struck by the disease.
Ben expects to finish all 2,175 miles in 80 days, arriving in Georgia by early December.
