Alexandria Council Deferred Townhome Project Vote

The city council delayed a decision on a proposal to build five four-story townhomes on North Patrick Street.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Commercial

Isometric editorial illustration of townhome models beside a commercial building block, representing city planning decisions. — The Alexandria City Council postponed a final vote on a proposed townhome project on North Patrick Street, citing concerns over commercial space loss. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should your local government prioritize preserving neighborhood commercial space over approving new residential housing?

Alexandria City Council deferred a vote on a proposal to replace existing lots with five four-story townhomes. Members cited concerns regarding the potential loss of neighborhood-serving commercial space.

Why it matters

Council members are seeking to balance new housing development with the preservation of local commercial areas that serve the surrounding neighborhood.

The proposed units feature four bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a one-car garage, and a roof deck. The individual lots range in size from 2,200 to 4,400 square feet with combined property assessments of $1,225,100.

The players

Alexandria City Council

This is the primary legislative body for the City of Alexandria responsible for local government policy and zoning decisions.

Jeffrey Schonberger

He is the owner of the properties located at 724, 726, and 728 N. Patrick Street.

Eric Bernstein

He is a partner at the development firm reportedly intending to purchase the property.

Kirby Holdings

This is the company reportedly intending to purchase the property for the proposed townhome development.

Planning Commission

This body is responsible for reviewing development projects and providing recommendations to the City Council.

The details

The project, proposed for 724, 726, and 728 N. Patrick Street across from the Charles Houston Recreation Center, has received a unanimous recommendation for approval from the Planning Commission. Officials will now negotiate with the property owner before a final decision is made.

Property assessments for the three lots were recorded in January 2026.
City Council deferred the vote on the townhouse project on September 19, 2026.
City Council will hold a public hearing on the project on October 17, 2026.

Roadmap

This development highlights the broader transition of urban parcels toward increased residential density within historic areas. The conflict mirrors common regional struggles to preserve existing commercial storefronts while addressing the demand for multi-story family housing.

Residents living near the Charles Houston Recreation Center may see changes to the neighborhood commercial environment depending on the outcome of the site negotiations. The delay provides additional time for public discourse regarding how this development will impact local services.

The takeaway

Zoning decisions often involve navigating the competing interests of property developers and community members who prioritize existing commercial access. Staying informed on upcoming public hearings is the best way for residents to participate in local land-use planning.