Supervisors Could Save 'Tysons' Last Forest' Tuesday

Fairfax County residents campaigning to save “Tysons’ last forest and stream” could get their wish Tuesday, as supervisors are expected to take a ramp option off the table during a committee meeting.

Tom Biesadny, the director of the county’s Department of Transportation, told The Washington Post further study of a ramp from the Dulles Toll Road that would pave right through the Old Courthouse Spring Branch Park might not be necessary.

The proposed option has drawn the ire of residents for months and was formally opposed by the Board in November.

The ramp would have connected the Toll Road to an extended Boone Boulevard, but more than 600 residents signed a petition to maintain one of the few green spaces left in the area.

Transportation officials have been looking at possible ramp connections into Tysons in a continuing effort to turn the area into the county’s vibrant, urban downtown.

Last week, supervisors approved a special service tax district that will increase taxes on Tysons residents in order to fund wide-scale transportation improvements.

Randy Atkins, who with other residents mobilized through the group Tysons Forest Coalition to advocate for protecting the park, said taking the option off the table was a "no-brainer," but wasn't always confident the move would actually happen.

And, he noted, " Actually, I'll still be holding my breath until the vote is done on Tuesday."

The group was suggested by some Vienna residents to be the area's top "Person of the Year."

See also:

Fairfax Board Opposes Dulles Toll Road Ramp Option

Exploring the New Frontier ... in Tysons Corner

Residents Gain Momentum Against Tysons Ramp

Residents 'Disgusted' Over Tysons Ramp Proposal