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Sun Gazette VOLUME 38
GREAT FALLS McLEAN OAKTON TYSONS VIENNA
NO. 15
DECEMBER 15-21, 2016
Big McLean Development Plan Back on Track?
‘Main Street’ Concept Was Mothballed Nearly a Decade Ago Due to the Recession BRIAN TROMPETER
MAN’S BEST FRIEND HAS A NEW FRIEND OF HIS OWN!
Staff Writer
Winston, a golden retriever, made fast friends with one of the toys that were part of the goody bag for participants in the Dec. 3 McLean Reindog Parade, sponsored by the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce and featuring canines of all shapes and sizes. Find a slide show of photos from the event at www.insidenova.com/news/fairfax. PHOTO BY DEB KOLT
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Downtown McLean was ready for a huge overhaul in 2008, with developer McLean Properties poised to build a comprehensive mixed-use redevelopment northwest of Chain Bridge Road and Old Dominion Drive. But a massive economic recession struck that year, and the developer subsequently mothballed the project. McLean Citizens Association (MCA) leaders said Dec. 7 that the developer plans to approach Fairfax County officials early next year with a mixed-use plan to construct restaurants and retail outlets on the buildings’ ground-floor levels, topped by residential dwellings and offices, said Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville). “It would be pedestrian-friendly and very attractive,” he said. McLean Properties co-founder Vidal Sadaka outlined the company’s hopes for the project. “Over the past few years we have heard a strong desire from many people in McLean to see Main Street happen, so we are excited to start those discussions,” he said. “Our goal is to create a vibrant, mixed-use, walkable place that fosters a sense of community and provides amenities for local residents. We hope to have a preliminary plan ready in February or March so we can start getting public feedback early in the design process.” The site is bounded by Old Dominion Drive, Chain Bridge Road, Ingleside Avenue and Beverly Road. The developer’s