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Alexandria’s historic City Hall and Market Square are set for major renovations, prompting a significant relocation of city services and offices through January 2026. For residents and businesses in Northern Virginia, understanding these changes is essential to ensure continued access to vital city services and to minimize disruption during this transition.
In the heart of Alexandria, VA, Division 1 Movers are established experts in local and long distance moving. If you have any questions after reading this guide, please reach out.
Why Is Alexandria City Hall Relocating?
Preserving a Landmark and Enhancing Services
Alexandria City Hall, a cornerstone of the city for over a century, and Market Square, a civic hub since 1749, are both in need of significant upgrades. The planned renovations aim to address aging infrastructure, improve accessibility, modernize technology, and enhance security. These improvements will help ensure that City Hall continues to serve as a functional and welcoming space for all Alexandrians.
Benefits for Residents and the Community
While the temporary relocation may cause some short-term inconvenience, the long-term benefits are substantial. Residents can look forward to:
- Improved access for individuals with disabilities and mobility challenges.
- Upgraded technology for more efficient service delivery and communication.
- Enhanced security measures to protect both staff and visitors.
- Modernized meeting spaces to foster greater community engagement.
Key Dates and Relocation Schedule
Winter 2025-2026: The Final Phase of Moves
The relocation process has already begun, with over 300 city employees moving to new offices. The final phase will be completed by January 2026, affecting several major departments and services. Understanding the timeline is crucial for anyone who relies on city services or needs to visit city offices.
Major Moves in January 2026
- Tavern Square (421 King St.): City Manager's Office, Mayor and City Council Offices, City Clerk, and Department of Planning & Zoning will relocate here.
- 123 Pitt St.: The City Attorney's Office will move to this location.
- 4850 Mark Center Dr.: Department of Finance in-person services and the City Council Chambers will be located here. The first City Council meeting at this new location is scheduled for January 13, 2026.
- Bankers Square (100 N. Pitt St.): A payment drop box will be installed for taxpayer convenience.
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How Will City Services Be Affected?
Temporary Service Interruptions and Virtual Options
During the transition, some city services will be temporarily paused or offered virtually. The city has outlined specific dates for each department, so residents can plan accordingly. Most interruptions are brief, and virtual assistance will be available for many services.
City Manager's Office
- Jan. 13-15: Services available virtually at alexandriava.gov/CityManager or by calling 703.746.4300.
- Jan. 16: All services fully resume.
Mayor and City Council Offices
- Jan. 14-20: Services paused.
- Jan. 21: Services available online at alexandriava.gov/Council or by calling 703.746.4500.
- Jan. 23: All services fully resume.
City Council Chamber
- Jan. 13: First City Council meeting at Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Dr.), 1st floor.
City Clerk
- Jan. 14-20: Services paused.
- Jan. 21-23: Services available online at alexandriava.gov/CityClerk or by calling 703.746.4550.
- Jan. 26: All services fully resume.
City Attorney's Office
- All services, except in-person, continue as usual.
- Jan. 6-9: In-person services not available.
- Jan. 12: All services fully resume.
Department of Planning & Zoning
- Jan. 15-20: In-person services not available. Virtual assistance at alexandriava.gov/Planning or 703.746.4666.
- Jan. 21: All services fully resume.
Department of Finance
- Jan. 9, 5 p.m.: Last day of in-person services at City Hall.
- Jan. 12: In-person services resume at 4850 Mark Center Dr., Suite 2011, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Payments can also be made at alexandriava.gov/payments or by calling 703.746.4800. A drop box will be installed at Bankers Square (100 N. Pitt St.), with the installation date to be announced.
What Residents Should Expect During the Transition
Minimizing Disruption and Staying Connected
The city is working to ensure that the relocation process causes as little disruption as possible. Most services will only be paused for a few days, and virtual or alternative options are available for many departments. Residents are encouraged to use online resources and phone support during the transition.
For those who need to visit city offices in person, it’s important to double-check the new locations and service hours before heading out. The city will provide updates on any changes or delays, so staying informed is key.
How to Stay Informed About City Hall Relocation
With so many moving parts, it’s easy to lose track of where services are located or when they’ll be available. The City of Alexandria offers several ways for residents to stay up to date:
- Sign up for eNews alerts from the city for the latest updates.
- Visit the City Hall Relocations page for detailed information.
- Follow the City of Alexandria on social media for real-time announcements.
Tips for Navigating the City Hall Relocation
Planning Ahead for City Services
If you anticipate needing city services during the relocation period, a little planning can go a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the changes smoothly:
- Check the city’s website or call ahead to confirm office locations and service availability.
- Take advantage of online services whenever possible to avoid unnecessary trips.
- Note the specific dates when services will be paused or relocated, especially if you need in-person assistance.
- Use the payment drop box at Bankers Square for tax or fee payments if you can’t make it to the new Finance Department location.
Accessibility and Transportation Considerations
The new office locations are spread throughout Alexandria, so consider your transportation options. Some sites, like Mark Center, may be less central than City Hall, but they are accessible by public transit and have parking available. If you have mobility challenges, check for accessibility features at the new locations before visiting.
What the City Hall Renovation Means for Alexandria’s Future
Modernizing a Historic Landmark
The renovation of City Hall and Market Square is about more than just updating an old building. It’s an investment in Alexandria’s future, ensuring that city government can continue to serve residents effectively for generations to come. The upgrades will make City Hall more welcoming, secure, and technologically advanced, reflecting the city’s commitment to progress while honoring its rich history.
Community Engagement and Civic Life
With improved meeting spaces and enhanced accessibility, the renovated City Hall will be better equipped to host public events, city council meetings, and community gatherings. This will help foster a stronger sense of civic engagement and make it easier for residents to participate in local government.
How Division 1 Movers Can Help During Major Moves in Alexandria
Expertise in Local and Commercial Relocations
Large-scale moves, like the City Hall relocation, highlight the importance of professional moving services. Whether you’re a business, government office, or resident facing a move in Northern Virginia, Division 1 Movers offers the expertise and reliability you need. Our team is experienced in handling complex relocations, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum efficiency.
Why Choose Division 1 Movers?
Division 1 Movers is locally owned and operated, with deep roots in the Alexandria community. We understand the unique challenges of moving in this area, from navigating historic buildings to coordinating logistics across multiple sites. Our value propositions include:
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate your timeline, including evenings and weekends.
- Comprehensive packing, loading, and unloading services for homes, offices, and government facilities.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Experienced, background-checked movers who treat your property with care.
- Specialized equipment for large or sensitive items, including office furniture and technology.
Contact Division 1 Movers for Your Next Move
If you’re planning a move in Alexandria or anywhere in Northern Virginia, let Division 1 Movers handle the heavy lifting. We’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible, whether you’re relocating your home, office, or entire organization. Contact us today for a free quote or to discuss your moving needs. Trust the local experts who know Alexandria best!
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