The Fairfax City Council’s recent decision to reject the proposal to redevelop the Courthouse Plaza Shopping Center near Old Town Fairfax has sparked considerable debate within the local community. On October 28, 2025, the council voted 4-2 against a plan that sought to replace parts of the aging shopping center with new residential units. This decision leaves the future of the site uncertain, and it raises important questions about development, housing, and the future of Fairfax’s downtown area.

In this article, we’ll break down the details of the proposal, the reasons behind the council’s decision, and what this means for Fairfax City residents. We’ll also explore some local insights and real estate trends that are important for those interested in the area’s future.

Background of the Proposal

The Courthouse Plaza Shopping Center, located at 10300 Willard Way, has been a fixture of Fairfax for decades. However, as time passes, the shopping center, which spans 8.7 acres, has started to show signs of aging. The shopping center is situated between Blenheim Boulevard to the east and University Drive to the west, with surface parking covering over two-thirds of the lot. The proposal by Combined Properties, the developer, aimed to revitalize the site by introducing 315 new apartment units and 12,000 square feet of retail space.

The new development would have included two six-story apartment buildings, which some critics believed would not blend well with the area’s existing character. With a proposed density of 36 residential units per acre, the plan was far more intense than the current zoning regulations allow. The council was divided on whether the new housing would bring much-needed vibrancy to the area or compromise its charm and balance.

The Fairfax City Council Vote

The vote was a close one, with four council members, including Anthony Amos, Stacy Hall, Thomas Peterson, and Rachel McQuillen, opposing the proposal. They expressed concerns about the height of the buildings and the density of the project, which would have represented a significant increase over the current zoning laws. On the other side, Councilmembers Billy Bates and Stacey Hardy-Chandler voted in favor, arguing that the project would make better use of prime real estate and address the region’s need for more diversified housing options.

Mayor Catherine Read, a long-time resident of the city, also voiced her support, calling the rejection a “lost opportunity” for Fairfax. She expressed a desire to see the property developed in a way that could bring new energy and opportunities to the area, particularly given that the shopping center had remained largely unchanged for decades.

Why the Proposal Failed

The decision to reject the redevelopment proposal came after months of discussions and revisions. Several factors contributed to the council’s final vote:

1. Zoning Concerns: The proposed development required nine zoning changes, which the council felt would be too disruptive to the existing framework of the city’s Comprehensive Plan and the Old Town Fairfax Overlay District.
   
2. Height and Density: The proposed six-story buildings were significantly taller than surrounding structures, and the density of the project exceeded what was allowed by the current zoning. This raised concerns about the impact on traffic, parking, and overall community character.
   
3. Affordable Housing: One of the key benefits of the redevelopment proposal was the inclusion of 19 committed-affordable apartment units. However, critics felt that the overall impact of the development would not be worth the trade-off, especially given the scale of the project.
   
4. Community Sentiment: While some residents were hopeful about the potential for new housing and improved retail options, others expressed concerns about the potential for overcrowding and the loss of the area’s small-town feel.
   

Local Impact: What This Means for Fairfax Residents

Fairfax City has been grappling with how to handle growth and development while maintaining its historic charm. With its proximity to Old Town Fairfax, the Courthouse Plaza site has long been seen as an opportunity for redevelopment. However, this vote highlights the complexity of balancing progress with preservation.

For residents, the rejection of the proposal may be a disappointment for those who were eager for new housing and retail options. But it’s also an opportunity to rethink how development in the area can be done in a way that benefits everyone. As we look to the future of Fairfax City, here are a few key factors to keep in mind:

• Real Estate Trends: Fairfax County continues to see rising demand for housing, especially near urban centers like Old Town Fairfax. This area’s proximity to major commuter routes and retail centers makes it an attractive location for future development.
  
• Housing Affordability: With a growing population, finding ways to provide affordable housing remains a priority for local leaders. While this proposal was rejected, the conversation around how to address this need will likely continue.
  
• Community Benefits: Redevelopment plans should consider not only housing but also the integration of public spaces, retail options, and transportation solutions that contribute to a vibrant, livable city.
  

Next Steps for Fairfax and the Courthouse Plaza Site

While the proposal has been rejected, the door remains open for future discussions about what will ultimately happen with the Courthouse Plaza site. As Councilmember Amos noted, there’s hope that Combined Properties, or another developer, will return with a new, more refined proposal that better aligns with the city’s needs.

In the meantime, Fairfax residents can expect more discussions about the future of Old Town and surrounding areas. Local leaders will need to consider not just zoning and density but also the broader impact of development on traffic, schools, parks, and the environment.

FAQs

1. Why did the Fairfax City Council reject the Courthouse Plaza redevelopment proposal?

The council rejected the proposal due to concerns about zoning changes, building height, density, and the overall impact on the community’s character. Critics argued that the development was too large for the site and did not align with the city’s comprehensive plans.

2. What was included in the proposal for Courthouse Plaza?

The proposal included the construction of two six-story buildings with 315 apartment units and 12,000 square feet of retail space. It also planned to retain some of the existing shopping center, including the Safeway anchor store.

3. Will there be any redevelopment at Courthouse Plaza in the future?

While the current proposal was rejected, the property owner or other developers may bring forward new plans for redevelopment. There is hope for a revised proposal that better addresses community concerns.

4. How does this decision affect local housing in Fairfax?

The decision does not address the growing need for housing in Fairfax but highlights the challenge of balancing development with community preservation. Future proposals may look for ways to meet housing demands while maintaining the area’s character.

5. How can I stay informed about the future of the Courthouse Plaza site?

Stay connected with local Fairfax City council meetings, subscribe to city newsletters, and follow updates from local news sources to remain informed about future proposals and developments.

Conclusion

The Fairfax City Council’s decision to reject the proposal to redevelop the Courthouse Plaza Shopping Center marks a significant moment in the city’s growth and planning process. While the future of the site remains uncertain, the decision opens up an important conversation about how to balance growth with community preservation.

For those interested in the local real estate market, particularly in the Fairfax City area, this decision reinforces the need for thoughtful planning that benefits both current residents and future generations. If you have questions about real estate in Fairfax County or need help navigating the local market, contact LIST WITH ELIZABETH – Elizabeth Ann Kline at 703-829-5478 for personalized real estate assistance.