06-03-2024
This month’s issue includes May outreach events; the county’s Plan Forward for future land use and development; electrifying the county fleet; an application deadline for Charge Up Fairfax; a Spring into Savings webinar for Green Business Partners; Metro’s Better Bus Network; service and fees changes for Fairfax Connector; the county’s Guide to Cycling; e-bikes and how to spend your time commuting on the Climate Matters Blog; the newest addition to the Purple Can Club; shopping sustainably at county Farmer’s Markets; the last call for Environmental Excellence Award nominations; flood preparedness tips; and much more.
May was another busy month for the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) as we loved getting out into the community to share information and resources for taking climate action! A huge thank you to everyone who joined us at the Backyard Bubble event at Fairfax Ace Hardware on May 19. In case you missed it, Clean Air Partners demonstrated the hidden air quality hazards associated with lawn tools and other backyard appliances. Clean air is no joke – but taking climate action to improve our community’s air quality is a breeze!
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On the same day in May, OEEC also participated in Healthy Together Fairfax at Franconia Park. This fun, interactive event aims to strengthen healthy environments and support active living for a sustainable future. We enjoyed educating Fairfax County residents about the impacts climate change will have on our environment and our health!
Interested in having us at our next event? Visit our Request a Speaker page. For more ways to stay connected, follow us on X, Facebook and read our Climate Matters blog.
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 Five members of the OEEC team were recognized with Outstanding Performance Awards from Fairfax County Government at a ceremony on May 3. The recipients were (from right to left, top to bottom):
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John Silcox, Communications Specialist: for prioritizing needs and approaches to agency communications.
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Gina Weil, Project Manager: for advancing the Charge Up Fairfax pilot program.
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Emily Bohr, Management Analyst: for her work on social media, website design and communications to advance OEEC programs and initiatives.
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Kate Daley, Management Analyst: for leading legislative review and equity matters for the office, while also supporting the Board of Supervisors Environmental Committee and the Fairfax Employees for Environmental Excellence.
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Neely Law, Planner: for co-leading multiple climate action implementation programs, including the Green Business Partners and the Energy Conservation Assistance program.
Congratulations John, Gina, Emily, Kate and Neely!
CLIMATE PLANS AND PROGRAM UPDATES
Plan Forward: Help Shape Policy to Guide Land Use and Development Decisions
Fairfax County has launched a new, multi-year project to update the policies that guide how land is developed. Called Plan Forward, the project focuses specifically on the Policy Plan which is a component of the Comprehensive Plan, the county’s long-term vision for land use.
The Policy Plan hasn’t been holistically updated since its adoption in 1990, and this update aims to integrate current county strategies like One Fairfax, the Community-wide Energy and Climate Action Plan, and Resilient Fairfax.
Plan Forward is an important opportunity for residents to ensure updated Comprehensive Plan policies such as land use, housing, sustainability, and transportation, enhance the quality of life for everyone in Fairfax. To get involved:
- Join an in-person or virtual community meeting from May 29 through June 27,
- Sign up for Plan Forward email updates,
- Sign up to participate in topic-specific, group meetings,
- Share what you see for the future of Fairfax County, and
- Answer the Plan Forward community survey.
Find more information about Plan Forward and the latest opportunities to participate by visiting the Plan Forward website or by emailing PlanForwardFFX@PublicInput.com.
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Operational Energy Strategy in Action: Electrifying the Fleet
As part of the Operational Energy Strategy, Fairfax County is transitioning its vehicle fleet from gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles to hybrid-electric and fully electric vehicles (EVs) to help reduce carbon emissions, save on fuel and maintenance costs, and support a healthier environment.
To support fleet electrification, the county is also installing the necessary charging infrastructure and reserved parking for EVs at county government buildings.
Visit our Fleet Electrification page to see the progress being made toward electrifying the fleet and watch our OES in Action video to learn more.
Deadline to Apply to Charge Up Fairfax is June 30
There’s still time to participate in the Charge Up Fairfax program — community associations have until June 30 to apply for technical assistance and partial reimbursement to cover the costs of installing EV charging stations for their residents and guests.
Electric vehicles, or EVs, are better for the environment and less expensive to fuel and maintain than gas-powered vehicles. The convenience of at-home charging makes EV ownership more practical, but that can be a barrier for residents who may not have a private garage or driveway.
Visit the Charge Up Fairfax program page or watch a recording of our May 3 webinar to learn more.
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ICYMI: Spring into Savings Webinar Highlighted Funding for Energy Efficiency
 Recently OEEC, Dominion Energy and TRC hosted a webinar for Fairfax County companies interested in financial incentives for energy efficiency projects. If you missed it, you can watch the recording on demand. And then consider joining the dozens of companies who are already participating in the Green Business Partners program.
BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Still Time to Sign up for Solar Group Purchasing Program!
Solarize Virginia and Capital Area Solar Switch make it easy for homeowners and small businesses to learn about rooftop solar, battery storage, and installation. These programs take advantage of group-buying power to ensure participants receive a quality system at a lower price.
By signing up, homeowners can receive a free assessment and quote from a qualified solar installer, technical assistance to help answer all your questions, and a guaranteed discounted rate.
Sign-up for Solar Switch by July 24. You can learn more about the program at a free information session on June 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Kings Park Library in Burke. Be sure to register!
Solarize Virginia is accepting sign ups until June 30. Watch a recording of our May 7 webinar to learn more about the campaign.
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SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
Your Guide to Cycling this Summer
Cycling is a fun, sustainable and healthy way to explore, enjoy and commute in Fairfax County. In the last 20 years, there’s been a significant increase in bicycling on county trails, sidewalks and roads. As a result, the county has expanded our multi-use trails and bike lanes.
Check out the county’s Guide to Cycling and be ready for your next ride with a bike map, bike parking locations, commuting tips and more.
E-Bikes: New Sensation in Sustainable Transportation
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E-bikes, also known as electric bicycles or electric-powered bikes, have the same functionality as a regular bike, but with a modern twist. Rather than pedaling being the only way to propel you forward, e-bikes have batteries and motors built into the frame - combining the efficiency of a motor vehicle with the physical benefits and accessibility of traditional bicycles. |
E-bikes can be charged easily at home and are a great alternative form of transportation, particularly well-suited for running errands and short trips.
Read more about the benefits of E-bikes on the Climate Matters blog.
5 Ways to Make Your Commute More Productive: Ideas from a Transit Professional
 Sam Chanesman is a transportation demand management expert who uses the Fairfax Connector bus system for his daily commute.
Recently, he shared 5 ways he makes his transit time more productive. Hint: one of them involves learning a new language! Read more of Sam’s suggestions on the Climate Matters blog.
Be a Better Bus Hero - Share Your Input on Metro's Proposed 2025 Better Bus Network!
In spring 2023, Metro asked the region to share their thoughts on a draft bus network, the Visionary Network. Using your input, they have created the proposed 2025 Better Bus Network, which represents Metro's commitment to improving service and connections using the resources it has today. The proposed 2025 Network includes:
- A network of bus routes that better connects the region
- Improved service, especially during evenings and on weekends
- New route names
- More efficient bus stop spacing
Review and provide feedback on the proposed 2025 Network by using Metro's interactive comment map, taking a survey, submitting written comments, or uploading a document at wmata.com/betterbus by 5 p.m. on July 15, 2024. Or, provide testimony at an in-person or virtual Public Hearing.
To view the full schedule of in-person events, visit wmata.com/betterbus. Share your feedback online by July 15 for a chance to win a $50 Visa gift card!
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Service Changes and Fare Adjustments Proposed for Fairfax Connector
The Fairfax Department of Transportation is gathering public input on a plan to adjust Connector bus service. These modifications, including the addition of two new routes, are part of Phase II of the Centreville, Chantilly, Vienna, and Tysons (CCVT), and Franconia-Springfield service adjustments that would take effect December 2024.
Phase 1 service changes, to include routes along the I-66 corridor from Centreville, Chantilly, Vienna to Tysons and routes to Franconia Springfield, are being implemented this summer (Watch this video for a sneak peak at the new Monument Parking Garage and Transit Center!)
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Additionally, Connector bus fares may increase to match Metrobus fares, which will increase July 1 in an effort by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to address a budget shortfall.
Fairfax Connector’s base fare would increase from $2.00 to $2.25, while Express fares would rise from $4.25 to $4.80. Implementation of this change is subject to Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approval.
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WASTE REDUCTION
Purple Can Club Comes to Clifton Elementary
Fairfax County’s Solid Waste Management program recently completed the installation of a new glass recycling bin at Clifton Elementary School, expanding the "Purple Can Club" in the region.
The Purple Can Club's newest addition was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 26, attended by notable figures including Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) Deputy Director Eric Forbes, and other local dignitaries.
For more information on Fairfax County's recycling initiatives and the Purple Can Club, visit Recycling and Trash.
Next Fix-it Clinic on June 23
 Do you have an item that needs fixing? Rather than throwing it away, try your hand at repairing and reusing your broken item, and avoid sending it to a landfill.
At the Fix-It Clinic at City of Fairfax Library on June 23, you can bring small household appliances, electronics, clothing, or jewelry, and receive guided assistance from handy volunteers. You’ll learn how to disassemble, troubleshoot, and if possible, repair your item! Workspace and basic tools will be provided.
Franconia Rec Center Marks Two-Year Anniversary of Operation Stream Shield
Franconia Recreation Center and Operation Stream Shield are celebrating their second anniversary teaming up to enhance local environmental health, while supporting individuals experiencing homelessness.
The anniversary event, known as Tape-a-Palooza, was held recently to remove leftover tape and ribbons from pavilions within the park, an effort to maintain cleanliness and aesthetics.
Operation Stream Shield, initiated in 2019 by DPWES, in collaboration with the Office to Prevent and End Homelessness, employs guests from local shelters to improve water quality in streams by removing litter and controlling invasive species. The program has also expanded to include trail maintenance and park beautification projects.
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NATURAL RESOURCES
Learn How to Protect the Chesapeake Bay If You Live Near a River, Stream or Shoreline
Chesapeake Bay is one of the world’s most productive coastal water bodies, and it collects water from county streams and rivers. Learn more about the bay and get involved in keeping it clean as part of Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week, June 1-9. |
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Kaiser Permanente’s Springfield Facility Recognized for Tree Conservation Excellence
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States has been honored with the 2023 Friends of Trees Award in the Development Category by the Fairfax County Tree Commission. The award recognizes outstanding efforts in tree conservation, particularly for exceeding the county's 10-year tree canopy requirement by an impressive 9,275 square feet at their Springfield facility.
TAKE ACTION
Use Taxpayer Resource Site to Take Advantage of IRA Incentives
If you make energy improvements to your home or business, you may be eligible for tax credits that lower the costs of qualifying equipment, like heat pumps and more.
The U.S. Department of Treasury’s IRA Taxpayer Resource Hub can help homeowners, small business owners, and vehicle buyers learn about the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) tax credits that apply to them.
Find out how the IRA can help you!
Submit a Nomination for the 2024 Environmental Excellence Awards
There’s still time to recognize the people and organizations within our community who take the time and initiative to care for our natural spaces and resources which benefits all who live, work and play in Fairfax County.
If you know a person, business or organization who deserves recognition for the work they do to protect our environment, nominate them today for the 2024 Environmental Excellence Awards. Nominations are due June 9.
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Apply for the MWCOG 2024 Climate and Leadership Awards
 Government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and educational institutions across metropolitan Washington are now officially invited to apply or nominate candidates for the 2024 Climate and Energy Leadership Awards offered by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG).
Winners serve as a role model for the region, and are recognized in front of local, regional, and national officials for their innovative climate stewardship projects and programs that engage and serve the region’s underserved communities. Climate efforts are recognized in three categories: government agencies, NGOs, and educational institutions.
The deadline for submissions is June 30. For more information, visit the awards page.
Think Outside the Bag when Shopping Fairfax County’s 10 Farmers Markets
It’s farmers market season! The Fairfax County Park Authority operates 10 farmers markets across the county from spring through fall. Not only can you shop for locally grown produce, delicious baked goods, and prepared foods, you can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, musical performances and games. Don’t forget to bring your food scraps to support our community composting efforts. And be sure to ditch the plastic and bring a reusable bag when you go!
Clean Fairfax was recently awarded a grant from the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia Environment Fund to build a plastic-free farmers market toolkit with resources for market managers, vendors, and customers. Here are their recommendations for making your farmers market trips more sustainable:
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Remember your reusable bag or tote! Let’s face it: single-use plastic bags have no place on farms, where our food is produced – and they do not belong at our farmers markets, either! If you have gotten in the habit of bringing your own bags to the grocery store, our challenge to you is to do the same at the farmers market. If you forget it in your car, go back for it before entering the market. It really only takes a few minutes and saves you from having to purchase or use a new bag. Tip: post a sticky note on your dashboard to remind you about the bags.
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Try reusable produce bags to hold your tomatoes, apples, greens, and more! You can make them out of scrap fabric, buy them, or repurpose another kind of bag that serves the same function. They are washable, so don’t worry if they get a little muck or dirt on them.
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Bring compost for collection. You can compost all of your food scraps – fruits, vegetables, leftovers, prepared foods, and even meat and dairy products. If you use a bin liner, try a folded newspaper or a paper grocery bag. Unlike many of the “bioplastics” we see on the market, paper is 100% compostable!
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If the market is close enough, consider walking or bicycling to get there. Exercise for you; less carbon emissions released into the atmosphere – it’s a win-win!
Follow Clean Fairfax on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay in the know about they’re up to.
Stay Safe During Floods with Simple Prep Tips
 Flooding can strike with little warning and have catastrophic impacts. By taking preparedness measures and remaining vigilant, homeowners can help keep their families and properties safe.
Taking relatively inexpensive preparedness actions like purchasing flood insurance, signing up for Fairfax Alerts, and knowing what to do when flooding is imminent can help minimize the threat to your life and property.
Check out the county’s Emergency Information Blog to learn more.
Get Assistance to Offset Cooling Costs
The Virginia Energy Assistance Program can help low-income households with cooling costs during the hottest months of the year. Assistance is available for payment of electric utility bills or for the purchase or repair of cooling equipment, such as air conditioners or fans.
The application period is open June 15 through August 15. Eligible households must include a person with a disability or a person under the age of 6 or age 60 or older. Visit https://www.commonhelp.virginia.gov/ or call (833) 522-5582 to apply.
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