In January 2017, a total of nine (9) demolition permits were applied for in Arlington County. In comparison, Jan2016 was 13 permits; Jan2015 was 22 permits; and, Jan2014 was 14.

Single Family: Eight were for single-family homes, two of which were in South Arlington. At least five of the projects are speculative developments. Four are located in National Register Historic Districts:

• 638 North Kenmore Street, Lyon Park National Register Historic District
• 1548 North Edgewood Street, Lyon Village National Register Historic District
• 5619 4th Street South, Glen Carlin National Register Historic District
• 1813 North Quantico Street, Highland Park/Overlee Knolls National Register Historic District

Commercial: There were no commercial demolition permits.

Other: One demolition permit was for a shed at 3506 14th Street North.

Totals for 2017
Homes: 8
– 4 are located in National Register Historic Districts
– 5 are speculative developments (owned by developers)
Garden Apartments: 0
Commercial Buildings: 0

The pending demolition of these homes and buildings represents a loss of history, architecture, time, energy, and materials. Many had the potential for renovation and additions or, at a bare minimum, reclamation/reuse of building materials. These buildings are often replaced with new construction that is out of scale and proportion to the community. Preservation Arlington urges citizens to adopt Local Historic District designations for their communities, with standards for design, height, and placement that could be customized to reflect community needs while still allowing reinvestment to occur.

Similarly, if you are a property owner and are contemplating a change to your property, Preservation Arlington encourages you to work with your architect or builder to consider how some or all of your house or building could be incorporated into a renovation, or the materials reused.