Metro reveals selection of design for upcoming 8000-series rail fleet following public ballot

In the vibrant city of Alexandria, today is shaping up to be a bustling day filled with a variety of events and important announcements.

Starting with the city's cultural scene, there are numerous activities on offer. Live music, cooking classes, run club, English Language Learning (ELL) workshops, and sensory storytime are just some of the events that residents can enjoy. For those interested in education, a "Funding Our Future" session is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at George Washington Middle School, providing an opportunity to discuss Alexandria City Public Schools' fiscal year 2027 budget.

In the realm of transportation, Metro has unveiled the winning exterior design for its new 8000-series rail fleet. The design selection is part of a broader Metro branding refresh that includes refined logos and illustrations. The new rail fleet, featuring connected, spacious interiors, is expected to improve the customer experience in every way. Notable features include wider aisles, increased digital signage, and dynamic wayfinding systems. The cars, designed to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, and bicycles, are expected to begin pilot service in late 2027.

Meanwhile, the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) is in the midst of some changes. The current interim CEO is Rickie C. Maddox, who took over after the CEO Erik Johnson was placed on probation amid an investigation for living in a public housing unit managed by the authority. The ARHA will convene a special board meeting this morning at 8 a.m. to discuss a personnel matter in executive session.

Elsewhere in the city, there are several other noteworthy happenings. The public voting period for the Best Playground in Alexandria ended yesterday, and the winner will be announced soon. Alexandria police are investigating a hit-and-run on Richenbacher Avenue, and the GSA is launching a search for new Alexandria office space to house the displaced National Science Foundation.

Residents are also encouraged to provide feedback on plans to upgrade crosswalks near schools in Arlandria and Del Ray. The deadline to submit feedback on the plans is this Friday.

In other news, the Potomac Yard Design Advisory Committee Meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, and a West End luxury car owner reported $11K in jewelry and cash stolen after multiple break-ins.

Lastly, for small business owners, there's an event titled "From Vision to Venture: Funding Your Small Business" at 9:00 a.m., and an eVA Registration Workshop at 1:00 p.m. Additionally, Alexandria Summer Restaurant Week is ongoing, offering a chance to explore the city's culinary scene.

It's certainly an eventful day in Alexandria, so stay tuned for more updates!