Fairfax County is close to finishing its comprehensive plan amendment for the Richmond Highway Corridor in northern Virginia. The amendment will create a substantial amount of new density — much of it residential — along the route of the proposed bus rapid transit system.

Four areas along Richmond Highway appear to be the big winners of this planning effort — Penn Daw, Beacon/Groveton, Hybla Valley and Woodlawn. Each area will be a community business center where density is allocated according to a form-based code rather than traditional floor area ratio. With maximum permitted heights reaching 22 stories, the plan will allow a substantial amount of new density.

Property owners should begin formulating a strategy now. The county anticipates releasing a staff report on the plan amendment this month, and public hearings on the amendment are scheduled for January and February 2018.