In February 2017, a total of twelve (12) demolition permits were applied for in Arlington County. In comparison, February 2016 was 21; February 2015 was 11; and February 2014 was 11.

Single Family: All twelve were for single-family homes in North Arlington. At least seven of the projects are speculative developments. Four are located in National Register Historic Districts:

• 4452 20th Road North, Waverly Hills National Register Historic District
• 1809 North Monroe Street, Cherrydale National Register Historic District
• 1801 North Nelson Street, Cherrydale National Register Historic District
• 1422 North Herndon Street, Lyon Village National Register Historic District

Commercial: There were no commercial demolition permits.

Other: There were no uncategorized permits.

Totals for 2017
Homes: 20
– 8 are located in National Register Historic Districts
– 12 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.