Developer seeks rezoning approval for proposed affordable senior housing in Beacon/Groveton

RH Senior Housing, a Virginia limited liability corporation, will seek rezoning approval from the Fairfax County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors this month for a proposed independent living facility for low-income senior citizens adjacent to the Beacon of Groveton apartment building.

According to the applicant’s land-use attorney, Mark Viani of Bean Kinney & Korman, the current park space at Richmond Highway and Groveton Street was originally approved for office development but has seen no developer interest for over a decade due to a downturn in the office market. What has seen growth, however, is the demand for affordable housing — including for older community members. RH Senior Housing hopes to get approval to change the use of the site to construct a just over 55,000 square-foot building with 52 age-restricted living units and space for retail or secondary use on the first floor.

The multi-story building would feature a landscaped courtyard and community room, both available to the public by reservation, as well as a fitness room, wellness center, conference room and lobby.

Illustration of proposed courtyard at the senior living community (Credit: Bean Kinney & Korman)

The Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors’ public hearings about the proposed site modifications are scheduled for Sept. 14 and Sept. 26, respectively. Both bodies greenlighted the related Comprehensive Plan amendment earlier this year.

Assuming the developer’s rezoning application is approved, the next step would be for them to seek financing over the course of next year, with construction tentatively slated to begin in 2025 and occupancy in late 2026.