In 2020, the County began its Missing Middle Housing Study (MMHS) to explore how new housing types could address Arlington’s shortfall in housing supply. After two years of public engagement, the MMHS has reached its third phase.
From September to October 2022, the Arlington County Board hosted 3 Information Sessions (Housing Development and Economics, History and Future of Housing Zoning and Policy, and Planning and Growth) and 20 Community Conversations regarding Missing Middle Housing(PDF, 420KB). Participants had the opportunity to learn, listen, reflect, and share their perspectives with County Board members and neighbors to inform the MMHS process. During each session, comprehensive notes were taken without attribution to any of the participants. View the notes
The Planning Commission's Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC) and Zoning Committee (ZOCO) reviewed draft zoning text and General Land Use Plan amendments in the fall of 2022. This review process resulted in many changes and new options, leading up to public hearings with the Planning Commission and County Board on a request to advertise in December and January.
On January 25, the County Board authorized public hearings to be held in March on proposed Zoning Ordinance and General Land Use Plan amendments. The advertisement sets the parameters for what the Board can consider in March.
Following public hearings on March 6 and 8, the Planning Commission recommended adoption of the proposed Zoning Ordinance and General Land Use Plan amendments. The County Board will hold a public hearing on these items on March 18.