Tyvek, Frasier, Exchange, and Potomac Yard

We spent Christmas in Alexandria a long time ago. We landed at Reagan Airport from Milwaukee, rented a car along Route 1, and stayed at the Morrison House. Route 1 was unremarkable at the time. Since we moved to DC, we travel to Alexandria regularly, but usually take the GW Parkway. Once in a while we take Route 1 to go to Target or Staples. Things have really changed since all those years ago! There is hardly a piece of land that has not been developed, is being developed, or will be in the near future. The street has been widened to accommodate the huge influx of new residents. There are new bus stops, and paved and landscaped islands to separate the traffic. I only wish I had an investment in Tyvek! Any huge expansion always includes The Tyvek name and insulation. There are three new housing developments along the way ... Potomac Yard, Frasier, and Exchange. They all look the same as any other new development... Near us by the Nationals Stadium, things look alike... The signs, the styles, the large square structures... I'm not one who admires high rises, vertical, or really modern looking buildings. But I do like the convenience, efficiency, and hopefully sound architectural infrastructure compared to our 1890's five story, forty unit building with tiny condos and apartments. Maybe one of these days we will make that upgrade, but for now this Capitol Hill Neighborhood suits us just fine - and it has a lot more charm, if you are willing to put up with it!

Potomac Yard and Notch 8

Not too far from Washington is Alexandria. We usually take the George Washington Parkway on our way to and from there, but we needed to stop at PetSmart along Route 1.  My goodness! It's been awhile and things have really changed from just last year. Starting from the $600's, you can get yourself a condo at Potomac Yard. Next to that will be Notch 8. It looks as though every completed unit is already inhabited. I am certain the merchants are thrilled with this massive housing explosion. The traffic is already congested as work is also underway to widen the street. When we visited Washington fifteen or twenty years ago we landed at Reagan and rented a car on Route 1 and then drove in to Alexandria to Morrison House. It is unbelievable how the landscape changed. I much prefer our location on Capitol Hill, but I envy the modern construction and updated materials - especially the infrastructure water pipes. But at least I don't have to drive in that mess every day. Not many folks can say they walk to work. You better believe I can really appreciate that!