BIG BUILD PLANS, NEW MEALS TAX
Reston’s old T-Mobile campus might get a brand-new life, and it’s a big one. We’re breaking down “East Link,” a plan for 1,000+ homes, a community center, and legit bike/ped upgrades by Herndon Metro. Plus: a quick primer on the Fairfax meals tax coming in 2026 and the best MLK-weekend events around town. Grab a mug and dive in.
What’s inside
Feature: East Link: First Take
Around Town: 2026 Meals Tax
Events: MLK Events, Stargazing, and Performances
What else would you like to see in the T-Mobile Redevelopment?
Feature Story
RESTON’S EAST LINK REDEVELOPMENT
Stanley Martin has filed plans to redevelop the former T-Mobile/Nextel campus by the Herndon Metro into “East Link,” a mixed community with 1,000+ homes, including affordable units. The proposal replaces three aging office buildings with multifamily buildings and townhouses, many as 2-over-2s, plus a repurposed brick building as a community center. Watch to see expected parks, a playground, an amphitheater-style pavilion, pickleball, and a safer Sunrise Valley Drive with a separated bike facility.
Around Town
FAIRFAX MEAL TAX STARTS IN 2026
Craving a heads-up before you order? Fairfax County will add a meals tax in 2026 on prepared food and drinks: think restaurants, cafes, takeout/delivery, grocery prepared items, and food trucks. It won’t apply to some towns and cities, so your bill depends on where you’re eating. Check out the post to see the details.
Quick Hits
IN OTHER NEWS
RA board elections open — Reston Association is accepting candidate filings for four Board seats; forms are due by Jan. 23, 2026, with voting from Feb. 27–Mar. 31.
W&OD tree work shifts to Reston —Dominion’s vegetation maintenance will start Jan. 20 on a 2.7-mile stretch between the Hunter Mill and Reston substations; NOVA Parks says this round is more selective.
Matchbox shutters at Reston Station — The pizza-and-burgers spot closed suddenly, leaving a prominent vacancy on the plaza; no replacement announced yet.
New FCPS high school name floated — Superintendent Michelle Reid recommended “Western High School” for the future campus at the former King Abdullah Academy site near Herndon.
County to Richmond: fund K-12 — Fairfax leaders named K-12 education funding their top ask for the 2026 General Assembly session; see the county’s legislative program for details.
Traffic heads-up (ongoing) — Reston Parkway’s northbound lanes over the Toll Road are shifted during bridge repairs; VDOT says the traffic shift runs through Jan. 19 with left-turn restrictions in place.
Curated Events
EVENTS IN RESTON, HERNDON, AND BEYOND
Reston’s MLK weekend is stacked: start Saturday with the Reston Community Orchestra’s tribute to Dr. King, then head to Lake Fairfax for a campfire stargazing walk, with telescopes and s’mores, before capping the night at RCC with Reston Community Players’ witty, heart-filled She Kills Monsters. On Sunday, Akua Allrich & The Tribe bring a soulful, jazz-forward “New Moon Rising” to CenterStage. Monday’s centerpiece is Dr. Eddie Glaude Jr.’s keynote and community luncheon, offering reflection and inspiration. It’s a perfect mix of music, theater, nature, and civic spirit.
A Final Note
YOU KNOW YOU’RE FROM RESTON WHEN…
“…you know it’s spring when the peepers start singing at Walker Nature Center.”
Your Next Step
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