Fall 2020 COVID-19 Updates

November 25th Update:

Released: November 24, 2020

The City of Alexandria and community partners will continue to offer certain resources for residents in need of food, child care, rental assistance, and eviction prevention services as a result of the impacts of COVID-19, after state-allocated federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding ends over the next few weeks. Although there has been discussion at the federal level among the executive branch, the House of Representatives and the Senate of providing more CARES funding to states and localities, to date there has been no agreement among them to do so.

The table below highlights the end dates for the impacted state-funded programs, and alternative resources for similar programs.

Program	Ending Date	Alternative Resources
ALX Cares Grocery Card Gift Program	November 27, or when funding runs out	Hunger Free Alexandria provides food distribution
State-funded Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention ( COVID-19 Emergency Rent Relief Assistance Program)	December 15	alexandriava.gov/Housing 703.746.5700
State-funded Child Care programs, such as the Micro Pod program and additional slots in other programs	December 1: Application deadline December 15: Enrollment deadline December 30: Program ends	alexandriava.gov/ChildCare 703.887.8039 703.746.5437 (KIDS) The state will announce a new round of CARES Act funding for the stabilization of child care.

The City offers several options to access the latest COVID-19 information, including announcements about available support resources.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus
Subscribe to the City’s free Alexandria eNews service at alexandriava.gov/eNews.
Subscribe to the City’s free COVID-19 text service by texting ALEXCOVID19 to 888777.
Subscribe to the City’s free Human Services Spanish text service by texting ALEXINFOESP to 888777.
Follow the City on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Follow the City’s Department of Community and Human Services on Facebook and Twitter.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/119091.

November 24th Update:

Released: November 23, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the state order and City ordinance require everyone to wear a mask over their noses and mouths in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places, with limited exceptions. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Community Testing for the Uninsured

AHD and the City conduct targeted COVID-19 community testing events for people who live and work in the immediate neighborhood of each location, especially for those who are uninsured. With support from the Virginia National Guard and the Alexandria Police Department and assistance from AHD’s Medical Reserve Corps volunteers, 430 people were tested at the William Ramsay Recreation Center on Saturday, November 21. Many participants indicated the test was because of plans to travel, not because they were experiencing symptoms. The CDC, AHD and City strongly urge against elective travel during the holidays or at any other time. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Testing resources other than community testing events are available for anyone who is insured, has been exposed to COVID-19, is not experiencing symptoms, or must undertake essential travel; including the organizations listed on the City’s “ Get Tested” web page. Call or book an appointment online before going to any facility.

What to Do If You Get Sick or are Diagnosed With COVID-19

Positive cases of COVID-19 are increasing in Alexandria and across the region, and everyone can do their part to slow the spread by staying home when sick. AHD encourages residents with symptoms of COVID-19, whether or not they have been diagnosed or tested, to take immediate action to prevent further spread of the coronavirus. Isolate away from others, including others in the household, and avoid gatherings or going to the workplace. Anyone who is sick or has been diagnosed with COVID-19 should inform others who have been in close contact. Page 2 of the “ What to Do If You Get Sick” checklist explains who is considered a close contact and what to tell them. Those who are sick but still need to get tested should check with their healthcare provider or find a testing location near them.

Workforce Retraining Scholarship Program

Re-Employing Virginians (REV) is a state initiative to help residents who have lost full-time jobs due to COVID-19 pursue training in high-demand fields with workforce or community college programs. Eligible residents can apply for one-time scholarships of $3,000 to register in qualifying full-time workforce programs, or $1,500 to register part-time or in short-term, noncredit training programs. High demand fields include health care, information technology, skilled trades, public safety and early childhood education. The enrollment deadline is December 14, 2020. To learn more about the program and apply, visit the Alexandria Workforce Development Center REV web page.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. This week, the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) offers a Meet the Employer event with Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS). Attendees will meet representatives from ACPS and learn about immediate openings for teachers, administrators, support staff and more. WDC is also offering several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, interviewing skills, job searching skills, and virtual job fair preparation. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 13 Alexandrians who tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms. The best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain wearing a mask in public, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and frequently washing your hands or carrying and using hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. Help your loved ones and neighbors by answering a call from AHD if identified as a close contact of someone who tests positive for COVID-19, and download the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus.

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November 23rd Update:

Increased Demand for Testing Across the Region

AHD and the City conduct targeted COVID-19 community testing events for people who live and work in the immediate neighborhood of each location, especially for those who are uninsured. Recently, there has been a significant increase in requests for testing due to an increase in cases in the region. More than 200 people participated in yesterday's community testing event at the Burke Branch Library before capacity was reached, more than double the usual number. Many participants indicated the test was because of plans to travel, not because they were experiencing symptoms. The CDC, AHD and City strongly urge against elective travel during the holidays or at any other time. Testing resources other than community testing events are available for anyone who is insured, has been exposed to COVID-19, is not experiencing symptoms, or must undertake essential travel; including the organizations listed on the City’s “Get Tested” web page. Call or book an appointment online before going to any facility.

Celebrate the Holidays Safely with Virtual Activities

While the community continues to see an increase in COVID-19 cases, AHD urges residents to consider virtual holiday activities that are lower risk of possible spread of the coronavirus. Options being hosted in Alexandria and across the region include:

City of Alexandria Virtual Tree Lighting - On Saturday, November 21, residents are invited to spark the season’s spirit with Alexandria’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in the safety and comfort of home with a premiere of virtual presentations and the tree lighting countdown.
Winter in Alexandria Activity Portal - Historic Alexandria has compiled activities that explore the winter season with four themes: celebrating family and community; marking milestones; making and preserving food; and keeping warm.
45th Annual Alexandria Turkey Trot - Participants of the 2020 virtual run will receive a commemorative "2020" bib, an optional long sleeve t-shirt, and their names listed in the results.
Smithsonian Museums Virtual Tours and Activities - The Smithsonian offers a variety of virtual museum tours and activities for all ages.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

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November 20th Update:

Released: November 19, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the state order and City ordinance require everyone to wear a mask over their noses and mouths in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places, with limited exceptions. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

CDC, AHD, City Strongly Urge Against Unnecessary Travel and Related Testing

AHD and the City strongly urge residents to choose lower risk Thanksgiving activities this year to reduce the likelihood of COVID-19 outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says “the safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving is to celebrate at home.” Travel increases the chance of becoming infected and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19, especially when traveling to areas of the U.S. experiencing surges of cases.

By itself, receiving a negative COVID-19 test result shortly before travel does not significantly lower the risk, because the person tested would still need to quarantine for 14 days from their last potential exposure to other people who may have COVID-19. Unnecessary tests and travel tie up resources that could help those who may have been exposed during essential work, essential travel, or other sources.

Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Take-out and Delivery

To minimize the spread of COVID-19, AHD strongly urges residents to celebrate Thanksgiving at home with small gatherings of members of the same household. The City has developed a multilingual flyer to help residents identify Thanksgiving activities by low, moderate, and high risk. As an alternative to dining out, consider staying safe and supporting local businesses by ordering take-out, curbside pick-up, or delivery from one of the nearly 50 Alexandria restaurants that will be open on Thanksgiving. Some restaurants will offer their full menus, while others will have modified menus of holiday favorites and holiday packages. Visit Alexandria offers a complete list of restaurants that go above and beyond to ensure their establishments are meeting AHD COVID-19 guidelines as ALX Promise partners.

Guidance for Students Returning Home for Holiday Break

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers guidance for students who will be returning home for the holidays from colleges and universities located out of state or in different regions, to minimize potential household exposure to COVID-19. Students and staff are strongly urged to follow all the mitigation measures for preventing the spread of COVID-19 while participating in classes and activities. At least 14 days before returning home, students should limit in-person interactions with others; consider getting tested for COVID-19; and receive the results before leaving campus. If limited interaction is not possible while at school, students should quarantine at home for at least 14 days, keep isolated from the household, and get tested one week after travel. After quarantine ends, students should continue to limit the frequency and size of social gatherings with people outside their households; wear masks; and maintain 6 feet of physical distance at all times. If a student tests positive prior to travel, they should self-isolate and not travel for at least 10 days. Students who test negative for COVID-19 afterclose contact with someone who tested positive should still quarantine for 14 days after exposure. VDH has developed a flyer for students and parents to help them understand the recommended mitigation measures.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

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November 19th Update:

Alexandria Health Department Urges Quarantine Compliance for Those Exposed to COVID-19

Released: November 18, 2020

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Alexandria and Northern Virginia, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) urges everyone to follow quarantine procedures if exposed to COVID-19. Anyone who has been in close contact with a person with COVID-19 is at increased risk of developing infection (including infection without symptoms) and spreading the virus to others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a close contact is any individual within 6 feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more in a 24 hour period, whether or not anyone was wearing a mask at the time.

AHD determines who has been a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case through the contact tracing process. AHD calls all close contacts and provides information on how long they should quarantine as well as how to monitor their health. Close contacts should remain in quarantine - away from others - for 14 days after exposure.

Someone who tests negative or feels healthy can still be at risk of spreading the infection to family and friends, because infection can appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. Quarantining for 14 days lowers the chance of exposing others to COVID-19. AHD may advise COVID-19 testing during the quarantine period; however, public health officials stress that "you can't test out of quarantine."

The purpose of quarantine is to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Quarantine helps prevent the spread of the virus that can occur before a person knows they are sick, either with or without symptoms. People in quarantine should stay home, separate themselves from others in the household, monitor their health, and follow directions from their state and local health departments. Workers who need to quarantine may be eligible for paid leave under the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Steps to take when asked to quarantine:

Stay home for 14 days after the last contact with a person who has COVID-19.
Watch for fever of 100.0◦F or higher, shortness of breath, or other COVID-19 symptoms. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms become severe.
Stay away from others, both at home and in public, and those who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.
Learn when it’s safe to be around others, including returning to work (available in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic).

Steps everyone should take:

To protect against COVID-19, everyone should maintain 6 feet of physical distance from anyone outside of their household, wear a mask, and practice frequent and proper hand washing. AHD urges residents to continue to abide by public health guidance. In general, the more closely people interact with each other and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus for information about where to get tested, contact tracing, and quarantine procedures.

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Clarification of Restaurant Seating Requirements

Per Executive Order 67, dine-in customers must be served at tables (not standing or at bar seating). Each party must be seated so that customers in different parties are at least 6 feet apart. Masks must be worn at all times when not drinking or eating. Parties of more than 25 may not be seated or served in restaurants

New Restrictions Stress Importance of Masks

The new statewide mitigation measures now in effect to slow the spread of COVID-19 underscore the importance of wearing masks at all times when in public indoor and outdoor settings. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the mask requirement now applies to ages 5 years and up in indoor public places. The City’s ordinance requires that ages 10 and up wear masks in outdoor public places when within 6 feet of anyone from a different household. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published studies which show that wearing an unvalved, cloth mask that is at least two layers thick, snugly over the nose and mouth, can help protect the wearer as well as others outside their household from exposure to the coronavirus when in public settings. City webpages answer questions about the mask ordinance and guidance for what to do if observing the violation of an executive order.

Community Testing Events for Uninsured

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. More than 280 residents were tested at Casey Health Center yesterday, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. These free testing events are intended for those who are uninsured or have difficulty accessing healthcare. Insured residents should consult their doctor to be tested, or visit the City’s “Get Tested” web page for testing location resources. AHD strongly discourages travel during the holidays. If travel is unavoidable, get tested before leaving for a trip and after you return. Although a negative test result does not eliminate the risk of travel, a positive test result will help determine whether isolation or quarantine is needed. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

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November 18th Update:

City of Alexandria Announces Schedule of Services for Week of 2020 Thanksgiving Holiday

Released: November 17, 2020

All City of Alexandria government offices will be closed on Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Other schedule changes and openings are listed below.

Resource Recovery: Residential refuse and recycling will be collected on the regularly scheduled day during the week of November 23, including Thanksgiving Day, November 26. There will be “no holiday slide.” On Thanksgiving Day, trash and recycling collection will begin at 6 a.m. instead of 7 a.m. Collection staff prefer to spend Thursday evening and Friday with their families, rather than having all day Thursday off and working on Friday. Visit Resource Recovery for more information.

Animal Shelter: On November 26, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria will be closed. On November 27, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., by appointment only, for both virtual and in-shelter animal visiting opportunities. To make an appointment, visit AlexandriaAnimals.org. For animal emergency or wildlife concerns, call 703.746.4444.

Health Facilities: The Alexandria Health Department (4480 King St.), the Flora Krause Casey Pharmacy (1200 N. Howard St.) and the Teen Wellness Center at T.C. Williams High School (3330 King St.) will close at noon on Wednesday, November 25, and will remain closed November 26-29, reopening November 30. Health Department COVID-19 case investigations and contact tracing will be operational November 26-29.

Historic Alexandria: On November 26, all City of Alexandria museums will be closed. The Alexandria Archaeology Museum will be open November 27-29; the Gadsby's Tavern Museum will be open November 27-30); and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum will be open November 28-30. All other City museums remain closed to the public until further notice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, call 703.746.4554 or visit alexandriava.gov/Historic.

Hotlines: All emergency hotlines operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including the child protective services hotline at 703.746.5800; the domestic violence hotline at 703.746.4911; the emergency services for mental health or substance abuse crisis hotline at 703.746.3401; the adult protective services hotline at 703.746.5778; and the sexual assault hotline at 703.683.7273.

Libraries: All Alexandria Library branches will be closed on November 26 and 27. The Law Library (520 King St.) will close at noon on Wednesday, November 25, and will remain closed on November 26 and 27.

Parking: On November 26 and November 27, the Alexandria Police will suspend enforcement of parking restrictions at metered spaces, residential permit parking districts and other areas with signed parking time limits. This suspension of enforcement applies only to the restrictions at legal parking spaces and does not permit parking in any location normally prohibited (for example, no parking zones, loading zones or spaces for persons with disabilities). Temporary no-parking signs will be enforced on November 26 and November 27.

Impound Facility: The City’s Impound Facility (5248 Eisenhower Ave.) for towed vehicles will be closed on November 26 and 27.

Recreation, Nature and Art Centers: On November 26, all City of Alexandria recreation, nature and art centers will be closed. On November 27, Chinquapin Park Recreation Center and Aquatics Facility, Charles Houston Recreation Center and Patrick Henry Recreation Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Torpedo Factory Art Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All other recreation and nature centers will be closed. Visit alexandriava.gov/RecreationCenters for more information.

Schools: All Alexandria City Public Schools will be closed on November 25, 26 and 27. Students will not be expected to log in for virtual learning.

State Offices: The Alexandria Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, Circuit Court, General District Court, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court will close at noon on November 25, and will remain closed November 26 and 27. The Department of Motor Vehicles office (2681 Mill Road) will be closed November 26, 27, and 28.

Transit: On November 26, the Alexandria Transit Company (DASH) bus service will operate on a Sunday schedule. On November 27, DASH will operate on its regular weekday schedule. The free King Street Trolley remains suspended until further notice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit dashbus.com for more information.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.

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November 17th Update:

Released: November 16, 2020

Contactless Payments; Hardship Waivers Available for Real Estate Taxes Due Today

There are several contactless ways to pay second-half real estate taxes, which are due by midnight tonight. Pay by credit card or eCheck at alexandriava.gov/Payments, by credit card over the phone at 877.273.5708, or by check via the dropbox located on the Royal Street side of City Hall (301 King St.). Payments must be made by midnight tonight to be considered on time. While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our entire community, the City recognizes that the financial impact on some taxpayers may be particularly substantial. If a taxpayer’s ability to pay the full amount due by November 16 has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, email covid19realpropertytax@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4800 to discuss the circumstances and learn about payment options. For general information about the real estate tax, refuse fee and stormwater utility fee, real estate assessments, appeals or updating the property owner’s mailing address, visit alexandriava.gov/RealEstateTax. For information about payments, late payment penalty and interest, visit alexandriava.gov/TaxGuide or contact the Treasury Division at 703.746.746.4800 (Spanish also available).

Impact of New Restrictions on City Operations

The new statewide mitigation measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 are now in effect and will not significantly impact City operations. City recreation, nature, art and library facilities, programs and classes already comply with COVID-19 best practices and will not be affected, other than that children ages 5 and up will be required to wear masks. The maximum number of attendees for indoor and outdoor events held by the City or under special event permits has been reduced from 1,000 to 250. All public and private in-person social gatherings must be limited to 25 individuals, down from the prior cap of 250 people, and includes both indoor and outdoor settings. Races and marathons may have up to 250 participants, provided there are staggered starts of groups of no more than 25 per group. Spectators at sporting activities are limited to the lesser of 30% of the occupancy load of the venue (if applicable) or 25 per field.

Upcoming COVID-19 Testing Events

The City and AHD have partnered with Neighborhood Health, with assistance from Medical Reserve Corps volunteers, to conduct weekly targeted COVID-19 testing events in Alexandria’s communities to increase access to testing. These free testing events are intended to reach those who don’t have access to care, are uninsured or might not have identification. The City has compiled COVID-19 testing resources, including a multilingual guide to testing facilities every day of the week, a symptom checker, and an interactive map to find testing locations. Guidance materials for next steps following a positive test result are also available in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic and can be downloaded.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. This week, the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) has several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including interviewing skills, networking skills, virtual job fair preparation, and transferable skills. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

ALEXANDRIA COVID-19 DATA AT-A-GLANCE

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Note that the increase in cases from yesterday is higher than usual due to technical difficulties that prevented the Virginia Department of Health from making updates over the weekend. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

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November 16th Update:

New Restrictions Effective Midnight on Sunday, November 15th

Governor Ralph Northam has announced new statewide mitigation measures to slow the increase of positive COVID-19 cases in Virginia. Effective at midnight on Sunday night, November 15, the following limits will apply in accordance with amendments to Executive Orders Sixty-Three and Sixty-Seven:

All public and private in-person indoor and outdoor gatherings must be limited to 25, down from the current 250.
Everyone ages 5 and over will be required to wear masks in indoor public places, which is a decrease from the current age of 10.

All essential retail businesses, including grocery stores and pharmacies, must adhere to state guidelines for physical distancing, requiring face masks and enhanced sanitization. Violations will now be enforceable by the Virginia Department of Health as Class 1 misdemeanors. AHD and the City anticipate additional guidance in the coming days.
Onsite alcohol sales, consumption and possession after 10 p.m. in any restaurant, dining establishment, food court, brewery, microbrewery, distillery, winery, or tasting room will be prohibited, and all such establishments must close by midnight. Bar areas of restaurants remain closed.

A video explains the reasons for these changes. Any impacts to City programs or services will be announced separately. Alexandria residents are urged to continue to follow the Six Steps to Stop the Spread of COVID-19 and do their part to minimize the potential for spread of the virus.

ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card Multilingual Resources

The ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card program is available for individuals and families who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Alexandria residents may be eligible to receive grocery gift cards in amounts ranging from $100 to $400, through December or as long as funding lasts. A flyer to help promote the ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card program is now available in English, Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, Farsi and Pashto. Priority will be given to residents who have not received federal assistance during the pandemic. Residents should apply online or call 703.746.FOOD (3663).

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. Approximately 180 residents were tested at Casa Chirilagua today, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

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Alexandria Recognized Among the Nation’s Top Digital Cities for 16th Consecutive Year

Released: November 14, 2020

Alexandria has been ranked the fifth top digital city of its size in the United States, according to the 2020 Digital Cities Survey conducted by the Center for Digital Government. The annual survey evaluates cities' approaches to using technology to tackle social challenges, enhance services, strengthen cybersecurity, and more. This is the 16th consecutive year Alexandria has been ranked in the top 10, including two years in first place.

"Alexandria’s investment in technology infrastructure and improved and expanded online services have helped protect customers and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic by making many interactions digital and virtual, thereby reducing the health risks of face-to-face meetings," said City Manager Mark Jinks. "We thank the Center for Digital Government for recognizing Alexandria as a Top Digital City for 16 years running."

According to the survey report, “Alexandria, Va., is a prime example of a city investing in technology for the public good. New tools and tactics have helped solidify the city’s place as a forward-thinking municipality. These investments have helped smooth business processes but were also key in weathering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic while providing essential services to residents.”

The report also cited recent digital accomplishments such as the new APEX land use and permitting system, Alex311 customer service portal, performance data dashboards, and implementation of best practices in cybersecurity.

For more information about the Digital Cities Survey, including a full list of winners, visit the govtech.com Digital Communities page.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Craig Fifer, Director of Communications and Public Information, at craig.fifer@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3965.

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Alexandria City Council Approves Addition of Southwest Access Pavilion for Potomac Yard Metrorail Station

Released: November 14, 2020

At its regular meeting on November 14, the Alexandria City Council unanimously approved an amended development special use permit for the Potomac Yard Metrorail Station, which adds a southwest access pavilion to the new Metrorail Station at E. Glebe Road and Potomac Avenue.

The enhancement follows two years of extensive engagement with the community, including the Potomac Yard Metrorail Implementation Work Group, to provide a substantial entryway to the station within available funding. The enhancement will be funded with a $50 million state grant, which the City received as part of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s incentive package for the new Amazon headquarters and Virginia Tech Innovation Campus.

The previous station design, approved by City Council in 2018, included one access point on the east side of the station, and two access points on the west side (a north pavilion and a sloped ramp from E. Glebe Road). The updated design replaces the ramp with a flat, enclosed, 520-foot bridge, accessible via an elevator or stairs from the pavilion. The entry aligns with the crosswalk across Potomac Avenue, providing a direct line of access from the National Industries for the Blind building. Pedestrians and cyclists will be able to use the bridge to cross between the east and west sides of the station without passing through fare gates. Like the rest of the station, the pavilion and bridge will complement the surrounding landscape by featuring earth tones, metal, glass, and stone veneer.

The new Potomac Yard Metrorail Station, to be built on Metrorail's Yellow and Blue Lines between the existing Braddock Road and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport stations, will provide an extensive range of benefits for Alexandria and the surrounding community, including walkable access to regional transportation systems for neighborhoods in the northeast area of the city. The station is also expected to generate billions of dollars in new private sector investment over the long term and eventually support 26,000 new jobs and 13,000 new residents. The Potomac Yard area represents the most significant redevelopment and tax base growth opportunity for Alexandria, with the potential to achieve the vision for an urban mix of uses near transit.

The $370 million station will be paid for with new tax revenue from development in Potomac Yard over the next 40 years, funding from the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority, a state grant, a special tax district in North and Central Potomac Yard, a low-interest loan from the Commonwealth Transportation Board, and significant developer contributions. The station is expected to be completed in spring 2022.

For more information about the Potomac Yard Metrorail Station, visit alexandriava.gov/PotomacYardMetro.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Craig Fifer, Director of Communications and Public Information, at craig.fifer@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3965. 

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November 13th Update:

Released: November 12, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the state order and City ordinance require everyone ages 10 and older to wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places, with limited exceptions. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Masks Can Help Protect Wearers and Others

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided updated guidance about the effectiveness of masks at preventing the spread of COVID-19. Evidence shows that wearing a multi-layered, non-valved mask over the nose and mouth at all times when around others outside the household can prevent the wearer from spreading or inhaling respiratory droplets, which are the primary source of COVID-19 transmission. More than 50% of the spread of COVID-19 has come from infected people who have either not begun to experience symptoms or are asymptomatic. Single layer masks, masks with valve openings that allow more airflow, and improper use of masks such as gaps around the edges of the mask, are much less effective at preventing transfer of droplets. High-thread count cotton in multiple layers, and thick materials such as polypropylene, that form an enclosed fit around the nose and mouth, are the most effective. Face masks are required in public places by local and state requirements, and can help to keep businesses open by reducing the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. A total of 160 residents were tested at Casa Chirilagua on November 11, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

November 12th Update:

Released: November 11, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the state order and City ordinance require everyone ages 10 and older to wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places, with limited exceptions. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Funeral Guidance

Planning a funeral and managing grief can be especially difficult and emotionally overwhelming while COVID-19 is still active in our community. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides funeral guidance, which offers suggestions for planning and helping loved ones to cope with loss during the pandemic. Gatherings and interactions with people in high-contact occupations, such as caterers, florists, clergy, and funeral home staff, may increase the possibility of spread. The CDC recommends that funeral attendees wear masks and avoid physical contact; gather outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces large enough to maintain physical distance; avoid sharing common religious items such as books or collections plates; and reduce the number of people who participate in singing or chanting. While the minimum safe physical distance is usually 6 feet, at least 10 feet should be maintained between people who are singing or chanting. Managing grief in addition to the stress and anxiety of the pandemic can be difficult. Loved ones are encouraged to find alternate ways of supporting each other, such as sharing memories and feelings of loss with household members or through virtual calls and memory books.

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries at two drive-through sites on Saturday, November 14, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Cora Kelly Elementary School (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and parking lot B-1 of the Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus (3320 Bisdorf Drive). To minimize risk of possible exposure to COVID-19, attendees are asked to drive through and remain in their cars and stay home if they feel sick. Walk-up customers are permitted but should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear face masks, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Additional food assistance resources are available for Alexandria residents.

The City of Alexandria Seeks Community Input on Race and Social Equity

The City of Alexandria invites the community to provide input on the City’s race and social equity efforts at three virtual engagement sessions, which will be used to draft a resolution for consideration by the Alexandria City Council.

Alexandria is committed to race and social equity through collaboration among City departments, employees, community members, nonprofit partners and other stakeholders to implement a framework that ensures City policy decisions and practices advance race and social equity.

The City’s commitment and efforts moving forward require inclusion, input and ideas from every part of the community. Everyone is invited to work together to build a more equitable community that will serve and improve the lives of all Alexandrians.

Advance registration at one of the following links is required to attend a virtual engagement session:

Visit alexandriava.gov/Equity to learn more about the community engagement sessions, and for more information about the City’s equity initiatives.

For media inquiries only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact kim.hurley@alexandriava.gov or call 571.213.9489, Virginia Relay 711.

# # #

Virtual Community Meeting on Heritage Redevelopment Project

Released: November 10, 2020

The community is invited to participate in a virtual community meeting regarding the proposed Heritage at Old Town redevelopment project. The meeting will be held tomorrow, Wednesday, November 11 from 6-8 p.m. City staff will give a brief presentation on the overall project and answer questions from the community. The meeting will be conducted in English with Amharic interpretation.

Meeting access is listed below and is posted on the City’s website:

https://zoom.us/j/98057782609
Meeting ID: 980 5778 2609
Password: 892168
Call in: 301.715.8592 (English only)
To access Amharic interpretation: In addition to selecting the Zoom link, call 703.746.3009 and enter access code 381000#

In response to CDC guidance related to COVID-19, there will be no in-person public meetings and all engagement will be conducted virtually through online platforms until further notice. Once restrictions on physical distancing are lifted, in-person community meetings will occur throughout this process to supplement the online engagement prior to the public hearings.

For more information on the meeting and the project, please contact Michael Swidrak, Urban Planner, 703.746.3813.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Jackie.Cato@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3810, Virginia Relay 711.

November 10th Update:

Released: November 9, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the state order and City ordinance require everyone ages 10 and older to wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places, with limited exceptions. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Pregnancy, Birth and Newborn Guidance

People who are pregnant are strongly urged to follow guidance for minimizing exposure to COVID-19, due to increased risk for severe illness that can include adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers extensive guidance for pregnancy, breastfeeding and caring for newborns. It is important to limit interactions with people who might be exposed to COVID-19, including anyone within the household. When outside the household, be sure to wear a mask, maintain 6 feet of physical distance whenever possible, and avoid activities that make taking protective measures difficult or impossible.

Continue scheduled healthcare appointments during and after pregnancy, to continue to monitor health. Receive recommended vaccines during pregnancy, such as flu and whooping cough, and keep a 30-day supply of medications at home. Seek emergency medical attention when necessary, and notify first responders and medical staff if COVID-19 infection is present. There are many decisions that will need to be made for the newborn in the event that the pregnant person has COVID-19, including whether the newborn will be rooming in at the hospital following birth. Precautions must be taken both in the hospital and upon returning home, including how to safely manage newborn doctor visits and breastfeeding.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. This week, the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) has several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building, job search skills, networking skills, and transferable skills. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

This chart provides information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria’s response to the pandemic. Click or tap the chart to view an interactive version that provides details of the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases, and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexa ndriava.gov/118788.

November 9th Update:

Regional COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Increasing

Community transmission in Northern Virginia has increased from low to moderate. Average case numbers in Alexandria are currently hovering around 20 per day, which is comparable to the number of daily cases seen in late July and August. Regional hospitalizations, including the use of intensive care units and ventilators have also increased, suggesting that severe outcomes from COVID-19 persist despite the additional availability of testing and treatment options. All Alexandrians must remain vigilant about staying home when sick, wearing masks, and maintaining physical distance from others. The upcoming holiday and flu season has the potential to dramatically increase the local spread of COVID-19, and every resident can do their part by getting a flu shot and following the Six Steps to Stop the Spread of COVID-19.

Child Care Micro Pods Now Available in Alexandria

Child care continues to be a vital part of Alexandria’s response for families who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet the rapidly changing needs and the preferences of families affected by the crisis, the City is offering a Micro Pod Child Care program as well as other traditional child care arrangements, at no cost to eligible working parents while slots are available. Micro pods, also called “quaranteams,” are small groups of child care providers and families who agree to follow strict safety protocols, such as wearing a mask and maintaining physical distance, when they are in public or interacting with others outside the pod. Pod members then participate in child care and virtual learning and socialize in-person in settings where the rules can be relaxed, without increased risk of contracting or spreading the virus. The initiative is providing all childcare options to 150 children ages 0-13 on a first-come, first-served basis through December 2020. Priority will be given to families with low income or families who are no longer eligible for child care subsidy because they lost employment.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. A total of 95 residents were tested at Charles Houston Recreation Center on November 5, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Guidance for Returning to the Workplace

When returning to the workplace after a period of telework, time off, unemployment, quarantine or isolation, it is important to monitor for symptoms of illness every day and stay home when symptoms are present. If COVID-19 infection is suspected, self-isolate and get tested to prevent the possible spread of the virus. If someone in the household is at increased risk of severe illness, employees should work with supervisors to telework or modify responsibilities. Consider ways to minimize the amount of time spent in the workplace and any in-person interaction. Wear a mask whenever in common areas, maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from others, avoid contact with high-touch areas, wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, always cover coughs and sneezes and relocate workspaces to increase distance between coworkers. The City has developed a Home Health Check (available for download and print in English and Spanish), and guidance on When You Can Be Around Others (available for download and print in English, Spanish, Amharic, and Arabic).

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

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Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Awards FY21 Community Matching Fund Projects

Released: November 9, 2020

The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA) established the Community Matching Fund (Fund) with the approval of the FY 2017-FY 2026 Capital Improvement Budget. The Fund allows 1:1 matching awards in an amount up to $25,000. Any community group that lives and/or works in the City of Alexandria can apply for the matching fund. The group must demonstrate in their proposal a capacity to build a stronger and healthier community through park and recreation facility improvements.

The Fund is a component of RPCA's PARKnership Program, which oversees partnerships for the development, design, construction and operation of recreational and park facilities and/or programs.

RPCA is pleased to announce the recipients of the FY2021 Community Matching Funds, as follows:

Lynhaven Gateway Park Improvements
Applicant: Lynhaven Citizens Association
Project Description: This project will provide park improvements consistent with the Pocket Park Improvement Plan, including leveling the central mound, installing electrical power, and placing seating and picnic tables.
Total Project Cost: $16,000
Total City Contribution: $8,000

Luckett Field Batting Cages
Applicant: Alexandria Little League
Project Description: This project will help to meet citywide demand for ballfield facilities by adding two batting cages located on the side of the first and third baselines as recommended in the Luckett Field Park Improvement Plan.
Total Project Cost: $19,900
Proposed Total City Contribution: $9,950

The organizations must fundraise the full amount needed to complete the project within one year. If the organization cannot meet the fundraising goal, the City will rescind the award and the funds will return to the City’s Community Matching Fund to be allocated in the upcoming fiscal year.

For information about the Community Matching Fund, visit alexandriava.gov/92701 or contact Lucresha Murphy at Lucresha.Murphy@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5489.

November 6th Update:

Released: November 5, 2020

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has published the latest analysis of COVID-19 case data including cumulative figures and new cases by ZIP code, race, ethnicity and age groups.

Updated ZIP Code Data

As of October 31, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has reported the following cumulative COVID-19 cases (the City of Alexandria has provided the estimated population for each local ZIP code to compare the number of cases per 1,000 residents).

Cumulative ZIP Code Data Summaries (by month)

ZIP Code	Estimated Population (in Alexandria portion of zip code)	Date of Report	Confirmed Cases per ZIP Code	Total People Tested	Positivity Rate ¹	Tests per 1,000 Alexandria Residents	Confirmed Cases per 1,000 Alexandria residents
22206	530	See note (2) below
22301	15,171	May 7 ⁴	35	282	12.4%	18.6	2.3
		June 9	68	685	9.9%	45.2	4.5
		July 7	90	1,106	8.1%	72.9	5.9
		Aug 5	98	1,760	5.6%	116.0	6.5
		Sept 5	127	2,618	4.9%	172.6	8.4
		Oct 5	146	3,471	4.2%	228.8	9.6
		Oct 31	158	4,381	3.6%	288.8	10.4
22302	20,238	May 7 ⁴	101	378	26.7%	18.7	5.0
		June 9	220	1,364	16.1%	67.4	10.9
		July 7	252	2,636	9.6%	130.3	12.5
		Aug 5	285	3,592	7.9%	177.5	14.1
		Sept 5	356	4,736	7.5%	234.0	17.6
		Oct 5	415	6,163	6.7%	304.5	20.5
		Oct 31	474	7,778	6.1%	384.3	23.4
22304	54,003	May 7 ⁴	296	1,142	25.9%	21.1	5.5
		June 9	611	3,418	17.9%	63.3	11.3
		July 7	707	4,873	14.5%	90.2	13.1
		Aug 5	851	7,098	12.0%	131.4	15.8
		Sept 5	1,074	9,923	10.8%	183.7	19.9
		Oct 5	1,220	12,632	9.7%	233.9	22.6
		Oct 31	1,370	15,267	9.0%	282.7	25.4
22305	16,095	May 7 ⁴	317	572	55.4%	35.5	19.7
		June 9	572	1,899	30.1%	118.0	35.5
		July 7	594	2,414	24.6%	150.0	36.9
		Aug 5	656	3,239	20.3%	201.2	40.8
		Sept 5	723	4,236	17.1%	263.2	44.9
		Oct 5	794	5,129	15.5%	318.7	49.3
		Oct 31	870	6,068	14.3%	377.0	54.1
22311³	16,898	May 7 ⁴	190 ³	517 ³	36.8% ³	See note (3) below
		June 9	417 ³	1,927 ³	21.6% ³
		July 7	464 ³	2,502 ³	18.5% ³
		Aug 5	547 ³	3,462 ³	15.8% ³
		Sept 5	643 ³	5,059 ³	12.7% ³
		Oct 5	712 ³	6,116 ³	11.6% ³
		Oct 31	781 ³	7,216 ³	10.8% ³
22312³	6,901	May 7 ⁴	196 ³	659 ³	29.7% ³
		June 9	529 ³	2,047 ³	25.8% ³
		July 7	616 ³	2,989 ³	20.6% ³
		Aug 5	734 ³	4,245 ³	17.3% ³
		Sept 5	908 ³	6,004 ³	15.1% ³
		Oct 5	1,010 ³	7,548 ³	13.4% ³
		Oct 31	1,085 ³	8,923 ³	12.2% ³
22314	47,826	May 7 ⁴	113	687	16.4%	14.4	2.4
		June 9	185	1,645	11.2%	34.4	3.9
		July 7	216	2,594	8.3%	54.2	4.5
		Aug 5	265	4,142	6.4%	86.6	5.5
		Sept 5	343	6,276	5.5%	131.2	7.2
		Oct 5	423	8,248	5.1%	172.5	8.8
		Oct 31	471	10,229	4.6%	213.9	9.8

¹ The positivity rate is the number of confirmed cases divided by the number of tests.

² ZIP code 22206 is mostly in Arlington County; the City of Alexandria portion of data for 22206 is not provided, therefore the numbers and calculations would not be reliable for reporting for Alexandria.

³ ZIP codes 22311 and 22312 are shared between the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County. The number of cases and number of people tested presented in this table, and accompanying calculations, are for the entire ZIP code. Cases per 1,000 Alexandrians cannot be reliably calculated.

⁴ Data is cumulative from the onset of the pandemic to May 7, and includes cases and tests over a period greater than one month.

Significant Changes since October 5 Analysis, Using Cumulative Data

As expected with ongoing community transmission of COVID-19, there has been an increase in cumulative positive cases per 1,000 residents. The range of rates in the October 5 analysis was 8.8 (in 22314) to 49.3 (in 22305), and the range in the October 31 analysis is 9.8 to 54.1, with the same ZIP codes having the highest and lowest confirmed cases.

All Alexandria ZIP codes have continued to experience decreases in their cumulative positivity rates since the May analysis. Positivity rates measure the percentage of tests conducted in a population that are positive. This measure is influenced by a number of factors, including how many tests are conducted, who is being tested, and how rapidly the virus is spreading. While there is no perfect measure to describe the burden of COVID-19 infections during this pandemic, positivity rate is a widely-used metric despite its limitations. Data presented in the table are based on information shared by VDH and is subject to change based on updates.

In the October 5 analysis, the cumulative positivity rate ranged from 4.2% to 15.5%. In the October 31 analysis, the range is 3.6% to 14.3%. The ZIP code with the highest cumulative positivity rates since May remains 22305, but this ZIP code has also experienced an over 70% reduction in its cumulative positivity rate since the initial analysis. ZIP code 22301, with a cumulative positivity rate of 3.6%, continues to have the lowest rate since May.

Monthly ZIP Code Data Summaries

It is also important to look at the data monthly to understand the current state of the pandemic. The following analysis is a monthly snapshot of new cases and tests since the prior month’s report. This month’s report is based on data reported by VDH as of October 31 and is slightly earlier than previous month’s reports to align the monthly summaries with the end of the calendar month.

ZIP Code	Estimated Population (in Alexandria portion of ZIP code)	Date of Report	Confirmed Cases per ZIP Code	Total People Tested	Positivity Rate ¹	Tests per 1,000 Alexandria Residents	Confirmed Cases per 1,000 Alexandria residents
22206	530	See note (2) below
22301	15,171	May 7 ⁴	35	282	12.4%	18.6	2.3
		June 9	33	403	8.2%	26.6	2.2
		July 7	22	421	5.2%	27.8	1.5
		Aug 5	8	654	1.2%	43.1	0.5
		Sept 5	29	858	3.4%	56.6	1.9
		Oct 5	19	853	2.2%	56.2	1.3
		Oct 31	12	910	1.3%	60.0	0.8
22302	20,238	May 7 ⁴	101	378	26.7	18.7	5.0
		June 9	119	986	12.1%	48.7	5.9
		July 7	32	1,272	2.5%	62.9	1.6
		Aug 5	33	956	3.5%	47.2	1.6
		Sept 5	71	1,144	6.2%	56.5	3.5
		Oct 5	59	1,427	4.1%	70.5	2.9
		Oct 31	59	1,615	3.7%	79.8	2.9
22304	54,003	May 7 ⁴	296	1,142	25.9%	21.1	5.5
		June 9	315	2,276	13.8%	42.1	5.8
		July 7	96	1,455	6.6%	26.9	1.8
		Aug 5	144	2,225	6.5%	41.2	2.7
		Sept 5	223	2,825	7.9%	52.3	4.1
		Oct 5	146	2,709	5.4%	50.2	2.7
		Oct 31	150	2,635	5.7%	48.8	2.8
22305	16,095	May 7 ⁴	317	572	55.4%	35.5	19.7
		June 9	255	1,327	19.2%	82.4	15.8
		July 7	22	515	4.3%	32.0	1.4
		Aug 5	62	825	7.5%	51.3	3.9
		Sept 5	67	997	6.7%	61.9	4.2
		Oct 5	71	893	8.0%	55.5	4.4
		Oct 31	76	939	8.1%	58.3	4.7
22311³	16,898	May 7 ⁴	190 ³	517 ³	36.8% ³	See note (3) below
		June 9	227 ³	1,410 ³	16.1% ³
		July 7	47 ³	575 ³	8.2% ³
		Aug 5	83 ³	960 ³	8.6% ³
		Sept 5	96 ³	1,597 ³	6.0% ³
		Oct 5	69 ³	1,057 ³	6.5% ³
		Oct 31	69 ³	1,100 ³	6.3% ³
22312³	6,901	May 7 ⁴	196 ³	659 ³	29.7% ³
		June 9	333 ³	1,388 ³	24.0% ³
		July 7	87 ³	942 ³	9.2% ³
		Aug 5	118 ³	1,256 ³	9.4% ³
		Sept 5	174 ³	1,759 ³	9.9% ³
		Oct 5	102 ³	144 ³	6.6% ³
		Oct 31	75 ³	1,375 ³	5.5% ³
22314	47,826	May 7 ⁴	113	687	16.4%	14.4	2.4
		June 9	72	958	7.5%	20.0	1.5
		July 7	31	949	3.3%	19.8	0.6
		Aug 5	49	1,548	3.2%	32.4	1.0
		Sept 5	78	2,134	3.7%	44.6	1.6
		Oct 5	80	1,972	4.1%	41.2	1.7
		Oct 31	48	1,981	2.4%	41.4	1.0

¹ The positivity rate is the number of confirmed cases divided by the number of tests.

² ZIP code 22206 is mostly in Arlington County; the Alexandria portion of data for 22206 is not provided, therefore the numbers and calculations would not be reliable for reporting for Alexandria.

³ ZIP codes 22311 and 22312 are shared between Alexandria and Fairfax County. The number of cases and number of people tested presented in this table, and accompanying calculations, are for the entire ZIP code. Cases per 1,000 Alexandrians cannot be reliably calculated.

⁴ Data is cumulative from the onset of the pandemic to May 7, and includes cases and tests over a period greater than one month.

Analysis of Monthly Data

Five ZIP codes (22301, 22302, 22311, 22312, and 22314) have experienced decreases in positivity rates since the prior report, while two ZIP codes have experienced increases in their positivity rates (22304 increasing from 5.4% to 5.7% and 22305 increasing from 8.0% to 8.1%) as noted in the October 31 analysis.

The total number of Alexandrians tested in this analysis period was 10,555. In the most recent month, the number of tests obtained by residents increased in all ZIP codes, with the exception of ZIP code 22304. ZIP code 22304 experienced a 2.7% decrease in tests but did have the highest total testing amount of any ZIP code at 2,635.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, AHD has worked with Alexandria’s healthcare providers and community partners to increase both testing availability and testing awareness across all ZIP codes in Alexandria. Prevention of new infections remains a priority, and timely testing is one part of the multipronged pandemic response strategy. It is important for all members of the community to stay home when ill, practice physical distancing, wear masks correctly and continuously in public, wash hands frequently, and cooperate with case investigations and contact tracing when called by public health staff.

Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 by Race and Ethnicity

Everyone is at risk for COVID-19, but it has disproportionately affected vulnerable populations throughout the United States, in Virginia, regionally, and within our community, due to underlying systemic inequities. VDH has published data on COVID-19 cases by race and ethnicity since the middle of June. The following table and charts present the cumulative case data by month.

Cumulative Race and Ethnicity Data Summary

Race or Ethnicity	Cumulative Cases as of July 5	Cumulative Cases as of August 5	Cumulative Cases as of September 5	Cumulative Cases as of October 5	Cumulative Cases as of October 31
Latino	1,306 (55.0%)	1,482 (51.6%)	1,656 (47.6%)	1,820 (46.3%)	1,983 (45.7%)
Black	347 (14.6%)	524 (18.2%)	703 (20.2%)	816 (20.8%)	898 (20.7%)
White	451 (19.0%)	531 (18.5%)	672 (19.3%)	770 (19.6%)	894 (20.6%)
Asian or Pacific Islander	84 (3.5%)	99 (3.4%)	121 (3.5%)	139 (3.5%)	162 (3.7%)
Other Race	40 (1.7%)	48 (1.7%)	76 (2.2%)	84 (2.1%)	108 (2.5%)
Two or more races	4 (0.2%)	6 (0.2%)	21 (0.6%)	28 (0.7%)	29 (0.7%)
Native American	3 (0.1%)	3 (0.1%)	3 (0.1%)	4 (0.1%)	4 (0.1%)
Not Reported	141 (5.9%)	180 (6.3%)	224 (6.4%)	266 (6.8%)	259 (6.0%)
Total	2,376	2,872	3,476	3,927	4,337

Individuals who identify as Latino or Hispanic make up 16.8% of the population in Alexandria but represent 45.7% of the diagnosed COVID-19 infections as of October 31. There has been a decline in the proportion of cumulative COVID-19 infections diagnosed among Latinos over time.

Monthly New Case Race and Ethnicity Data

Race	New cases from July 6-August 5	New cases from August 6-September 5	New cases from September 6-October 5	New cases from October 6-October 31
Latino	176 (35.5%)	174 (28.8%)	164 (36.4%)	163 (39.8%)
Black	177 (35.7%)	179 (29.6%)	113 (25.1%)	82 (20.0%)
White	80 (16.1%)	141 (23.3%)	98 (21.7%)	124 (30.2%)
Asian or Pacific Islander	15 (3.0%)	22 (3.6%)	18 (4.0%)	23 (5.6%)
Other Race	8 (1.6%)	28 (4.6%)	8 (1.8%)	24 (5.9%)
Two or more races	2 (0.4%)	15 (2.5%)	7 (1.6%)	1 (0.2%)
Native American	0 (0.0%)	1 (0.2%)	1 (0.2%)	0 (0.0%)
Not Reported	39 (7.9%)	44 (7.3%)	42 (9.3%)	-7 (-1.7%)
Total	496	604	451	410

When looking at COVID-19 cases reported from October 6 through October 31, 20.0% of cases were among residents who identify as Black, which is a decrease from the prior report’s 25.1%. Residents who identify as Latino or Hispanic comprised 39.8% of cases during the same period, which is an increase from the prior report’s 36.4%. The percentage of newly reported cases of COVID-19 among people identifying as white increased in this analysis, from 21.7% to 30.2%. If cases were proportionate by population groups, AHD would expect to see whites with the highest number of cases with almost double the number of cases compared to the Black population.

Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 by Age

When looking at cumulative data, the largest proportion of cases continue to be among those 30 to 39 years old, which is to be expected based on Alexandria’s population.

Cumulative Age Data Summary

Age (yrs)	May 5	June 5	July 5	August 5	September 5	October 5	October 31
0-9	41	116	133	162	217	265	301
10-19	50	134	170	211	241	279	307
20-29	138	311	377	499	634	740	841
30-39	247	479	549	663	810	902	981
40-49	187	390	439	530	614	681	747
50-59	131	264	305	359	445	493	545
60-69	87	173	200	232	268	292	323
70-79	57	90	101	108	121	140	150
80+	44	78	90	97	115	124	130
Missing	1	10	12	11	11	11	12
Total	983	2,045	2,376	2,872	3,476	3,927	4,337

Monthly New Case Age Data Summary

Those who are 20 to 29 years old represent the largest proportion of newly reported cases from October 6 to October 31. There was an increase in cases during this same time period seen among the 50 to 59 and 60 to 69 age groups.

Age (yrs)	New Cases (May 6-June 5)	New Cases (June 6-July 5)	New Cases (July 6-Aug 5)	New Cases (Aug 6-Sept 5)	New Cases (Sept 6-Oct 5)	New Cases (Oct 6-Oct 31)
0-9	75	17	29	55	48	36
10-19	84	36	41	30	38	28
20-29	173	66	122	135	106	101
30-39	232	70	114	147	92	79
40-49	203	49	91	84	67	66
50-59	133	41	54	86	48	52
60-69	86	27	32	36	24	31
70-79	33	11	7	13	19	10
80+	34	12	7	18	9	6
Missing	9	2	0	0	0	1
Total	1,062	331	496	604	451	410

What Alexandria Health Department is Doing

AHD is a mission-driven organization whose response to this pandemic is consistent with its public health justice principles. AHD has developed and continues to update Strategic Action Frameworks that guide efforts and help prepare for evolving challenges.

AHD activities in the past month to combat the COVID-19 pandemic include:

Supported the Alexandria Office of Voter Registration and Elections by providing guidance on public health recommendations to help keep everyone safe while voting and providing Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers to increase safety during the voting process.
Conducted town halls for administrators and staff of daycares and parents of children who attend daycare to educate and empower daycares and families on how to stay safe during this pandemic. View recordings of the town halls online.
Conducted two town halls for residents of Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority apartments.
Continued preparations to equitably and efficiently distribute a COVID-19 vaccine once a safe vaccine is available.
Responded to cases and outbreaks in the community. AHD case investigators and contact tracers work seven days a week to help minimize the spread of COVID-19 infection. AHD analyzed aggregate data on cases to help inform best infection prevention practices and shared key findings with the community.
Provided technical support to Neighborhood Health to organize and coordinate regularly targeted testing events for communities who may have otherwise had limited access to testing and for those who have been exposed to a positive COVID-19 case. AHD analyzes data and identifies these communities based on need. There were five testing events in October, and AHD and the City maintain resources regarding local testing facilities where Alexandrians can get tested any day of the week.
Supported City agencies, faith-based organizations, schools, daycares, and governmental leadership with recommendations based on up-to-date COVID-19 epidemiology and research.
Responded to complaints about businesses not adhering to the state Executive Order on masks and supported businesses in their commitment to the ALX Promise.
Recruited, trained, coordinated and supported AHD’s MRC volunteers, who staff the COVID-19 Hotline Call Center weekdays from 9am-6pm, responding to 357 calls from Alexandria residents and businesses regarding COVID-19 questions, issues and concerns in October.
Provided personal protective equipment (PPE) to Alexandria healthcare providers that offer COVID-19 testing. With MRC volunteer support, AHD distributed 15,000 surgical masks, 7,800 medical gowns, 16,400 medical gloves and more than 2,500 face shields free of charge in October.

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November 5th Update:

Released: November 4, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the state order and City ordinance require everyone ages 10 and older to wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places, with limited exceptions. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Vaccine Distribution Planning Underway

Governor Ralph Northam has authorized $22 million in federal Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to create a statewide distribution plan for COVID-19 vaccines once they begin to become available for public use. The development of a mass vaccination program requires substantial planning and preparation to help Virginians get the vaccine as quickly, efficiently, and safely as possible. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has submitted a draft vaccination plan to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that addresses the planning of purchasing equipment; support for local health departments and staff to manage the program; medical supplies and storage; and communication to the public.

Local jurisdictions are developing plans for initial distribution to the most critical populations once they are accurately identified. Critical populations may include first responders, health care personnel and essential workers; people at increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness; people at increased risk of getting sick or transmitting COVID-19; and those with limited access to routine vaccines and health care. It is anticipated that initially, vaccine supplies will be available in limited quantities. Planning also includes determining who the vaccine providers will be and training for the proper administration of the COVID-19 vaccine. Current funding will support VDH planning efforts through the end of 2020, with an estimated program cost of $120 million. Virginia will work to identify additional funding to cover the program cost in 2021.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/118686

November 4th Update:

Released: November 3, 2020

City of Alexandria government offices will be open on Veterans Day (Wednesday, November 11th). Other scheduled changes and closures are listed below.

Resource Recovery: Residential refuse and recycling will be collected according to the City’s normal schedule for the weeks of November 9th; and there will be no "holiday slide.” Visit Resource Recovery for information.

Animal Shelter: On November 11th, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria will be closed. For animal emergency or wildlife concerns, call 703.746.4444

Health Facilities: On November 11th, the Alexandria Health Department (4480 King St.), the Flora Krause Casey Pharmacy (1200 N. Howard St.) and the Teen Wellness Center at T.C. Williams High School (3330 King St.) will be closed. Health Department COVID-19 case investigations and contact tracing will be operational.

Historic Alexandria: City-operated museums and historic sites will be closed on November 3 and 11.

Hotlines: All emergency hotlines operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including the child protective services hotline at 703.746.5800; the domestic violence hotline at 703.746.4911; the emergency services for mental health or substance abuse crisis hotline at 703.746.3401; the adult protective services hotline at 1.888.832.3858; and the sexual assault hotline at 703.683.7273.

Libraries: On November 11th, the Alexandria Law Library (520 King St.) and the Duncan Library (2501 Commonwealth Ave.) will be closed. All other libraries will be open with limited hours. Visit Alexandria Library for details.

Parking: On November 11th, the Alexandria Police Department will suspend enforcement of parking restrictions at metered spaces and residential permit parking districts. This suspension of enforcement applies only to the restrictions at legal parking spaces and does not permit parking in any location normally prohibited (for example, no parking zones, loading zones or spaces for persons with disabilities). Temporary no-parking signs will be enforced on November 11th.

Impound Facility: The City’s Impound Facility for towed vehicles (5249 Eisenhower Ave.) will be open on November 11th.

Recreation and Art Centers: On November 11th, recreation and art centers will be open during regular hours. Visit alexandriava.gov/RecreationCenters for specific information on operating hours.

Schools: On November 11th, Elementary parent-teacher conferences will begin at 8 a.m. Students will be expected to log in for virtual learning. Food distribution will continue as usual.

State Offices: The following Commonwealth of Virginia offices in Alexandria will be closed on November 11th: the Circuit Court, Clerk of Circuit Court, General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, and Court Service Unit, located in the Alexandria Courthouse (520 King St.); and the Department of Motor Vehicles office located at 2681 Mill Road.

Transit: On November 11th, DASH bus service will operate on a regular weekday schedule. The free King Street Trolley remains suspended until further notice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit dashbus.com for more information.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.

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November 3rd Update:

Released: November 2, 2020

Internet Assistance for Low Income Families

The Digital Literacy, Inclusion and Safety Council has provided a list of plans for Internet Assistance for Low-Income Families. This covers a comprehensive list of financial assistance and Internet Service programs for eligible families and individuals. It's a helpful guide especially at this time when schools and businesses have shifted to working and learning from home in order to prevent the spread of the virus.

Travel Advisory Status

The Center for Disease Control has ordered a self-quarantine of 14 calendar days for anyone participating in non-essential travel to/from high-risk areas (see list of states below) and returning to the tri-state area (Washington, DC; Maryland and Virginia or the DMV.) As of November 2nd, the list of states below have been added to the high-risk areas:

Alaska
Arkansas
Alabama
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Jersey
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

Travel – Non-essential travel outside of the DMV area is discouraged. Do not travel if sick, with someone who is sick or if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days. Continue social distancing and wear masks in public, especially indoors. If you are on essential travel, you are required to self-monitor for symptoms and limit activities to the extent possible.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. Nearly 90 residents were tested at William Ramsay Recreation Center on October 31, with assistance from AHD's MRC volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. This week, the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is offering several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including job interviewing skills and preparing for the virtual job fair. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

This daily news release will now include a chart to provide context and more precise data about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria’s response to the pandemic. Click or tap the chart to view an interactive version that provides details of the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases, and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

November 2nd Update:

Released: October 30, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Flu Shots for Those Without Health Insurance

AHD encourages everyone to get a flu vaccine as an important step for personal and community health. It is even more essential this year because the influenza virus shares many symptoms with COVID-19. Annual flu vaccinations are recommended for everyone ages six months and older. Inova Care Services for Families is hosting free flu shot clinics for those without health insurance at their Alexandria location (4700 King St.), Wednesdays and Fridays, November 4 to 20, from 3 to 5 p.m., while supplies last. Appointments are required and should be scheduled by calling 571.665.6599. Flu shots for those without insurance are also available at low cost at AHD and Neighborhood Health locations, and can also be obtained at pharmacies, doctors’ offices and grocery stores with a pharmacy. For more information about how to obtain a flu shot, and how to prevent the flu, visit the City’s Flu Preparedness Information web page.

Daycare Assessment Checklist

AHD has developed a checklist for families to help guide discussion with their daycare providers, to ensure everyone is following safety and health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Daycare providers should be prepared to answer questions about cohorting practices to minimize teachers and staff floating between classrooms, and whether hand sanitizer and other disinfecting supplies are regularly available. They should have contingency plans for mitigation measures, and communication plans already in place in the event a child or staff member tests positive for COVID-19. The Daycare Assessment Checklist is available for download on the City’s Coronavirus web page, along with many other resource materials that can help families teach their children how to stay healthy.

Impact of COVID-19 on Health Care Personnel

The City reminds residents that when they remain healthy and reduce the spread of COVID-19, they can help protect health care personnel from exposure to the COVID-19 coronavirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published data about the impact of exposure to COVID-19 patients on health care personnel. Data collection conducted between March 1 and May 31 shows that of the COVID-19 related hospitalized patients who were health care personnel, two-thirds performed duties with direct contact to infected patients. Similar to the distribution of the U.S. health care workforce overall, a majority of hospitalized health care personnel in this study were female. Women accounted for 72% of the health care personnel who were infected, 52% of whom were Black, 27% white, and 8% Hispanic, with a median age of 49 years. Approximately one-third of hospitalized health care personnel were admitted to intensive care units for an average length of 6 days and another 20% required more severe treatment or did not survive.

18 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,303, including 74 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 13 infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms, so everyone must maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. Be prepared to help your family and neighbors by answering a call from AHD if you are identified as a close contact of someone who tests positive for COVID-19.

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October 30th Update:

Released: October 29, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Rebuild VA Grant Program Receives Additional Funding

Rebuild VA, a small business and nonprofit organization grant program, will receive an additional $30 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Businesses that were impacted by COVID-19 and have less than $10 million in gross revenue or fewer than 250 employees will be eligible under new criteria, and the maximum grant award will increase from $10,000 to $100,000. Rebuild VA funding may be used for salaries, payroll and healthcare benefits, mortgages, rent and utilities, loan payments that were incurred before or during the emergency, personal protective equipment, and cleaning and disinfecting materials. Businesses that previously received a Rebuild VA grant will receive a second award that correlates with the updated guidelines. For additional information and to submit an application, visit governor.virginia.gov/RebuildVA.

16 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,285, including 74 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

October 29th Update:

Prepare for Remnants of Hurricane Zeta; Provides Free Sandbags

The City of Alexandria urges residents and businesses to prepare for the remnants of Hurricane Zeta, which may result in periods of heavy rain in the region on Thursday. The National Weather Service forecast includes a 100% chance of rain beginning early Thursday morning, with the potential for up to three inches by the end of the day.

The City will provide free sandbags to residents and businesses today, October 28, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 133 S. Quaker Lane. Sandbags will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of five per resident or business. Proof of residency or business in Alexandria is required. Please wear a mask and maintain 6 feet of distance from others when picking up, and review guidance for proper use of sandbags.

City crews continue to inspect and clear debris from streets and curb inlets in advance of the storm; residents and businesses can help by clearing leaves and debris from around gutters and storm drains on their property.

PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION AND TIPS

Making preparations for an emergency now is the best way to protect yourself, loved ones, property, and the community. Residents and businesses should find out if they are in evacuation areas; assess their risks; and determine if their property is vulnerable to storm surge, flooding or winds.

A family emergency plan will help you decide where to meet if you are separated, how to care for your pets, and secure your home.
An emergency communications plan will guide you through organizing important information about the individuals in your household, including phone numbers for utilities, emergency contact information, doctors, and schools to ensure the information is readily available to everyone.
A basic emergency kit checklist will help you gather medications, non-perishable food, pet supplies, clothing, tools and safety items, and other items needed in an emergency.

UNDERSTANDING TROPICAL STORM AND HURRICANE MESSAGES

The severity of the message is key to how soon to expect a storm’s impact and the level of action you will need to take.

A WATCH means tropical storm or hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours.

PREPARATION DURING A TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE WATCH:

Monitor local radio or television stations for official emergency information and instructions.
Review your emergency kit checklist, family emergency plan and emergency communications plan with your household.
Make an evacuation plan to use in case you are asked to do so by local officials.
Fuel and service vehicles.
Make interior and exterior preparations for your property: information about both permanent changes and emergency measures you can take to safeguard your home from an imminent flood threat are available at the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Hurricane Preparation page and the City’s Flood Map page.

A WARNING means tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours.

ONCE A TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE WARNING IS DECLARED:

Closely monitor radio, TV, or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for official bulletins.
Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if told to do so.
Turn the refrigerator to maximum cold, open only when necessary, and pack your freezer with as much as you can. This will help food stay colder longer.
Fill bathtubs and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors. Go to an interior first-floor room such as a bathroom or closet. Close all interior doors and brace external doors.

STAY INFORMED

During any severe weather event, stay informed by monitoring local media for official news and information. The City will also post updates about City services and programs on alexandriava.gov and send them to the media for broadcast. Information will also be posted to the City’s social media channels. To receive emergency notifications by text or email, subscribe to the City’s free Alexandria eNews service at alexandriava.gov/eNews.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Hurricane for more information about hurricane preparedness, including flooding information, food and water safety, post-storm cleanup instructions, a Virginia evacuation guide and more.

For inquiries from the news media or reasonable accommodation requests only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959, Virginia Relay 711.

# # #

Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries at two drive-through sites on Saturday, October 31, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lots of Cora Kelly (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and John Adams (5651 Rayburn Ave.) Elementary Schools. To maintain no-contact food distribution, residents are encouraged to drive through and remain in their cars. Walk-up customers are permitted but should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear a face mask, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Other resources for Alexandria residents who may need food assistance are also available.

Reporting Mask Violations at Businesses

AHD reminds residents that a City ordinance requires face masks to be worn in indoor public places, and outdoor public places where physical distance cannot be maintained. This ordinance expands on the state executive order that requires masks in most indoor public settings. The City’s website details the requirements for masks and what to do if a violation is observed, including exemptions for certain individuals and situations. If a violation is taking place in a business or restaurant, the business and customers should work together to resolve the situation when possible. A customer who is concerned about a mask violation by an employee or another customer should bring the concern to the attention of the person involved, or to a manager. If the situation cannot be resolved, the customer may wish to explain to the manager why they will no longer patronize the business, and may report the violation using the Virginia Department of Health’s online complaint form or calling AHD’s COVID-19 hotline at 703.746.4988.

All-Weather Grants and Guidelines for Businesses

The Alexandria City Council approved the reallocation of federal Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding for small business grants and ALX B2B All-Weather Grants administered by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership. Guidance is now available for businesses planning to accommodate patrons outdoors during colder weather in response to COVID-19. “Guidelines for Winterizing Outdoor Business Activities 2020-2021” provides advice on installing temporary structures, tents, awnings and heating elements, and incorporating health and safety requirements. City permit fees associated with adapting outdoor operations to colder weather are temporarily waived. Restaurant, retail and fitness businesses may operate in on-street parking spaces, on sidewalks or in parking lots with approval of a temporary outdoor business expansion permit.

October 28th Update:

Released: October 27, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

City Seeks Partners for Hand Sanitizer Program

The City and AHD are seeking community partners to participate in a new hand hygiene and COVID-19 infection prevention initiative. Community partners can host or adopt City-owned hand sanitizer stations in Alexandria for public use. Hosts can place a hand sanitizer station at their business, organization, or facility site. Adopters oversee a hand sanitizing station located on nearby public property (e.g. park, street corner, transit facility). Hosts and adopters are both responsible for funding refills, replacing hand sanitizer fluid as needed, and periodically inspecting the condition of the station. In return, hand sanitizer stations will display the logo of the hosting or adopting organization to show their commitment to helping Alexandria remain healthy and open for business. This program will replace the existing community hand sanitizer stations piloted by the City as part of the initial pandemic response. To participate, interested businesses and organizations should complete an interest form.

Guidance for All Public Transportation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued strong recommendations for the use of masks for all passengers and employees of public transportation. Due to the nature of public transportation, it is often not possible to maintain 6 feet of physical distance. Passengers on public transportation are generally considered to be in close contact with each other for the purpose of identifying risk for exposure to COVID-19. Therefore, covering the nose and mouth with a mask is critical to helping prevent the spread of COVID-19. Masks should be worn for all domestic and international travel at all times at stations, airports and seaports and inside aircraft, trains, buses, boats and hired cars. Transportation operators are advised to require passengers to wear masks other than in limited circumstances. Travelers are reminded to maintain physical distance whenever possible; wash hands frequently; avoid touching or disinfecting high-touch surfaces when possible; and carry supplies such as extra masks and hand sanitizer containing more than 60% ethyl alcohol.

Mask Mandate Effectiveness

Studies are showing that once local governments adopt mandates to enforce wearing face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the number of positive cases in their communities decreases. This is especially true in jurisdictions where a scientific foundation, fair enforcement, and free or affordable masks were part of the mask initiative. Masks reduce transmission of COVID-19 from the wearer and may further protect the wearer from severity of the illness. The 15 states where mask mandates were enacted between April 8 and May 15 experienced slower growth of positive case rates than states without mask mandates. It is estimated that by May 22, between 240,000 and 450,000 cases were avoided in those states. Even in states that saw increases in cases after relaxing other mitigation measures, significant reductions in case rates followed new mask mandates.

Studies around the world have also shown an association between mask mandates and better outcomes from illness, with a reduction in fatalities. In countries where wearing masks is a cultural norm, and where mandates were recommended by the national government within 30 days of the first case in that country, there were significantly fewer fatalities.

18 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,248, including 74 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 27th Update:

Released: October 26, 2020

Alexandria Health Department Identifies Commonly Reported Potential Sources of Local COVID-19 Exposure

Between September 21 and October 19, Alexandria Health Department (AHD) case investigators interviewed 422 residents diagnosed with COVID-19. Case investigators asked people to recall their activities during the two weeks before they felt sick, to identify potential sources of COVID-19 exposure. Individuals could have identified more than one possible source of infection. The results of these interviews mirror other local analysis and research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which suggest that household contacts, indoor gatherings, and restaurant dining are common sources of COVID-19 transmission.

AHD analyzed the interviews and found that the following activities were most commonly reported among people with recent COVID-19 diagnoses:

34% lived with someone who recently had COVID-19.
25% went to their workplace.
10% went to a public event, social gathering, or entertainment activity, with most gatherings occurring indoors.
7% travelled outside of the Alexandria/D.C. area, with most travel in the U.S.
7% went to a restaurant or bar, with two-thirds eating indoors and one-third eating outdoors.

The activities an individual participant reported may or may not have been the sources of COVID-19 exposure for that individual; however, they do demonstrate trends and suggest common links for people who become ill.

Based on this exposure analysis, AHD recommends the following precautions to lower the risk of activities commonly reported by people diagnosed with COVID-19.

Protect coworkers by not entering workplaces when ill or recently in close contact with someone with COVID-19.
If someone in your household is ill, immediately take precautions such as wearing masks when in common areas, avoiding shared utensils, and staying 6 feet apart.
Limit indoor social gatherings, and choose lower risk activities for holiday celebrations.
Avoid travel as much as possible, particularly to areas of the U.S. experiencing surges of cases. For necessary travel, follow CDC’s guidance to lower risk of COVID-19.
Maintain mask usage as much as possible, including while waiting to order or receive food at restaurants.
Support businesses that have completed the ALX Promise voluntary accreditation program, since these entities have taken additional training with AHD and have pledged to go above and beyond minimum state safety standards for employees and customers.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus for more information about how COVID-19 is impacting Alexandria, health resources and AHD’s response to the pandemic.

# # #

City of Alexandria Warns of Potentially Altered Marijuana Following Recent Overdoses

The City of Alexandria is notifying the public of the potential that marijuana in the region may be mixed with unusual substances, after four recent overdoses in the nearby Prince William County Health District. One person died, and the other three were revived with Narcan (naloxone), suggesting that the marijuana may have been mixed with opioids. While use of any illegal drug is dangerous, City officials are urging residents to be especially cautious given these recent overdoses.

If you or someone you care about needs help with addiction, call 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711), 24 hours a day. Individuals who do not live in Alexandria can find treatment options at samhsa.gov or by calling 800.662.HELP (4357).

If you have information regarding past overdoses, call the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.4444.

For life-threatening situations, call or text 911 immediately.

For more information on the opioid crisis and how the City is responding, including a printable flyer on overdose symptoms and how to get help, visit alexandriava.gov/Opioids.

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Important Updated “Close Contact” Definition

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued updated guidance to define “close contact” with someone infected with COVID-19. Close contact is now considered being within 6 feet of an infected person for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period, even if the contact takes place at different times. Close contacts should be identified starting from two days before the person with COVID-19 felt sick, and continuing until the person was isolated. For those without symptoms, the time period begins two days before a person diagnosed with COVID-19 was tested.

Because any definition of close contact is just a rule of thumb, the circumstances of each contact may change the level of risk that the virus will be transmitted. Factors to consider include the length of time spent within 6 feet of the infected person; whether the infected person had symptoms and was producing respiratory droplets from activities such as coughing, shouting or singing; and environmental factors such as a crowded, poorly ventilated, enclosed space. While masks that are properly worn over the nose, mouth and chin can reduce the spread of COVID-19, this new definition emphasizes the importance of also maintaining 6 feet of physical distance whenever possible. AHD has been using this expanded consideration of factors to determine close contact in their contact tracing efforts for months. Learn more about AHD’s contact tracing methods.

New Virginia Law on Nursing Home Visitations

On October 21, Governor Northam approved a bill passed by the Virginia General Assembly during its recent special session, in response to concerns about loneliness caused by isolation from caretakers, residents and their loved ones. The new law will require nursing homes, certified nursing facilities, and hospices to allow patients and residents to receive visits in person, or by audio or visual technology, during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Facilities must create visitation protocols that are consistent with guidance from the CDC and as directed by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Virginia Board of Health, and must inform families and residents when visits will be allowed in-person and when they will be conducted remotely. Facilities are also required to outline the technology they have available to support virtual visits and the steps they will take if there is an internet outage or other emergency that prevents virtual visits from occurring. The law requires the Virginia Department of Health to adopt regulations no later than July 2021 to implement the above requirements.

Daycare Town Hall Videos

A recording of a virtual COVID-19 Daycare Town Hall meeting produced by AHD is now available. The Town Hall provides public health guidance to guardians of children attending daycare or other child care settings. Topics include when to keep a child home from daycare; when to get a child tested for COVID-19; when to return a child to daycare; and common infection scenarios. AHD staff reviewed the steps to stop the spread of COVID-19 and shared resources with guardians to reinforce the message at home.

October 26th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

New Educational Settings Outbreak Data Available

As a result of new legislation signed by Governor Northam, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) COVID-19 data website now includes a “COVID-19 Outbreaks in Kindergarten-12th Grade Schools” dashboard. This dashboard shares a list of public and private K-12 schools in Virginia at the locality level that are currently experiencing or have experienced a COVID-19 outbreak. An outbreak is defined as at least two confirmed cases of COVID-19 within a school where persons are linked by the same exposure to an ill person, setting, event, and time period. Outbreaks reported may involve staff only; students only; or students, staff and visitors. The numbers included in the dashboard are outbreak-associated cases and deaths only, and do not indicate the total number of cases that may have been associated with a school over the entire pandemic. AHD investigates every outbreak that occurs in Alexandria, including in public and private school settings. In conjunction with the VDH School Metrics, this dashboard will help educational institutions measure the extent to which COVID-19 is spreading in communities and guide possible responses.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. Approximately 123 residents were tested at Burke Library, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

17 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,179, including 75 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 12 infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms, so everyone must maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. Be prepared to help your family and neighbors by answering a call from AHD if you are identified as a close contact of someone who tests positive for COVID-19.

October 23rd Update:

Released: October 22, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

AHD Urges Routine Preventive Medical Care

AHD stresses the importance of staying healthy and encourages Alexandrians to continue getting routine health screenings and preventive medical care, which can reduce the risk of severe illness or death. In 2020, COVID-19 may account for two-thirds of excess deaths, which is the amount beyond the expected number of deaths for a given place and time. The largest increase in excess death, either by COVID-19 or other causes, has occurred in adults ages 25-44. The Hispanic population has been most impacted, with a 56% increase in excess deaths. Non-Hispanic American Indians and Alaska Native, Black, and Asian persons saw an increase of 29-37%, while white persons experienced a 12% increase. The disproportionate increases among certain racial and ethnic groups are consistent with noted disparities in COVID-19 mortality. AHD’s Public Health Justice Principles and strategic action frameworks were developed to address these disparities by prioritizing science-based recommendations; focusing resources on saving lives; and engaging and empowering Alexandrians most in need.

Celebrate Halloween and Dia de los Muertos Safely

While the spread of COVID-19 remains a threat, residents are encouraged to find safe ways to enjoy Halloween and Dia de los Muertos. The City has been notified that the annual gathering of trick-or-treaters on Lee Street in Old Town will not take place this year. Here are just a few examples of lower risk celebration activities:

Del Ray Halloween Traditions - With the annual parade canceled due to COVID-19, residents can participate in a number of Halloween-themed contests online, including house decorating, group or pet costumes, and a scavenger hunt.

West End Drive-Thru Trunk-or-Treat - Families can dress in costumes while remaining in vehicles to drive through the Shiloh Baptist parking lot to receive pre-bagged treats.

Dia de los Muertos Virtual Requiem Concert - To remember the lives of those lost in the battle against COVID-19, the New Orchestra of Washington and Choral Arts will perform Brahms’ Requiem to embrace the spirit of celebrating, not mourning, the lives of those lost.

Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian Dia de los Muertos Virtual Weekend - Online live events that feature educational and celebration with traditional music, mask-making, paper marigold demonstrations (including links to download and make your own), a reading list for children, and opportunities to remember loved ones.

18 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,162, including 75 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 22nd Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Contact Tracing Information for Employers

Employers are required to file a report with the Virginia Department of Health whenever an employee tests positive for COVID-19. The City provides resources to support Alexandria businesses, including an online reporting form. Employers are encouraged to work with AHD when investigating potential exposure at the workplace. If addressed quickly, contact tracing can help minimize the spread of COVID-19 among coworkers and the potential need to close. An employer’s involvement in the contact tracing process may vary depending on the type of business, state and local laws, and company policies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers guidance to employers about the contact tracing process, including requirements, how the employer will be involved, and how to prepare to collaborate with a health department. The City has a contact tracing web page that demystifies the process of contacting anyone who has been possibly exposed to COVID-19.

Abuse of Alcohol and Substance to Cope is Harmful

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, some may turn to alcohol, prescription or over-the-counter medications, or illegal drugs to cope with stress. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions, and abuse of alcohol and drugs can worsen feelings of anxiety and depression. They can reduce alertness and awareness, and result in forgetfulness to maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet and wear a mask properly at all times when in public. Excessive alcohol or substance consumption can lead to immediate and long-term health issues, such as overdose, liver or heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. Substance and alcohol abuse can also weaken the body’s ability to fight infection and increase the risk of complications, including respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia, and make it harder for the body to recover. The City has many resources available for anyone struggling with alcohol or substance abuse or addiction.

October 21st Update:

Released: October 20, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

COVID-19 News and Resource Webpage

The City provides Alexandria residents, business owners and visitors the most relevant and current information regarding the City and AHD’s response to COVID-19 coronavirus in one location at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. Sections include a catalog of materials available for download; testing and contact tracing information; food and other basic needs resources; data dashboards; resources to stay connected to the latest information; support for businesses; guidance for how to stay safe; and much more. The page is updated almost daily with new health guidance and resources, so visit often for all information related to the COVID-19 pandemic response in Alexandria.

Loan Forgiveness Program for Small Businesses

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was developed through Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding, to promote economic stability during the COVID-19 pandemic. PPP loans have helped business owners cover payroll and benefits costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. In an effort to further ease the financial burden on business owners, PPP loans of any amount may be eligible for forgiveness, if certain criteria are met. Changes have been made recently to the process of applying for loan forgiveness. The West End Business Association (WEBA) will host a virtual Lunch and Learn on Monday, October 26, 12:30-2 p.m., to help small business owners learn how to prepare for the PPP loan forgiveness application process. A panel of local experts will offer advice and guidelines to both the simple and the advanced applications. Registration is free for WEBA members and $10 for guests. For more information about the PPP and loan forgiveness, review the frequently asked questions.

10 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,133, including 75 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

Alexandria Opens Additional Locations for Absentee Voting; Reminds Voters of COVID-19 Safety Practices

The City of Alexandria will open additional voting locations to facilitate in-person absentee voting for the November 3 general and special elections. Absentee voting will be available at the Charles Beatley Library (5005 Duke St.) from October 23 through October 31, except Sundays. Absentee voting will also be available at Minnie Howard School (3801 W. Braddock Rd.) and George Washington Middle School (1005 Mt. Vernon Ave.), on Saturdays, October 24 and 31, only. All three locations will have ballot drop boxes available during voting hours, which vary according to the list below.

All registered voters in Virginia are eligible to vote absentee. In Virginia, absentee voting refers to any ballot cast prior to Election Day, whether by mail, drop box, or in person. Voters are encouraged to become familiar with ballot questions and voting procedures in advance to reduce wait times at voting locations. Voters should consider all available options in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Detailed information about COVID-19 safety practices is listed below.

ABSENTEE VOTING IN PERSON

The deadline to cast an absentee ballot in person is Saturday, October 31, at 5 p.m. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and in accordance with local and state requirements, each person at a voting location must wear a mask over their nose and mouth, and maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from others.

In-person absentee voting hours and locations are as follows.

Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St.

Friday, October 23, Noon-6 p.m.
Saturday, October 24, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday, October 26, Noon-8 p.m.
Tuesday, October 27, Noon-8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 28, Noon-8 p.m.
Thursday, October 29, Noon-8 p.m.
Friday, October 30, Noon-6 p.m.
Saturday, October 31, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Minnie Howard School, 3801 W. Braddock Road

Saturday, October 24, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, October 31, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mt. Vernon Ave.

Saturday, October 24, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, October 31, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Office of Voter Registrations & Elections (132 N. Royal St., Suite 100)

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m-5 p.m.
Additional Hours:
- Friday, October 23, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Saturday, October 24, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Monday, October 26, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Tuesday, October 27, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 28, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Thursday, October 29, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Friday, October 30, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Saturday, October 31, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

ABSENTEE VOTING BY MAIL

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail is Friday, October 23. Applications must be received in the Voter Registration Office on that day by 5 p.m.

Voters may also submit absentee ballot applications online at vote.elections.virginia.gov. They may also get paper applications at alexandriava.gov/Elections, or by contacting the Alexandria Voter Registration Office at 703.746.4050.

Completed ballots must be returned to the Office of Elections by 7 p.m. on November 3, or postmarked by November 3 and received in the office by noon on Friday, November 6.

Voters who believe they cannot safely have a witness present while completing the ballot for the November 3 election may disregard the witness signature requirements.

BALLOT DROP BOXES

Ballot drop boxes will be available at the same dates, times and locations listed above for in-person absentee voting. In addition, drop boxes will be available at all polling places on November 3, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. A secure outdoor drop box is available in front of the Office of Voter Registration & Elections, which is under video surveillance and available 24 hours a day, through November 3 at 7 p.m.

COVID-19 SAFETY

The Office of Voter Registration and Elections is implementing guidance for in-person voting locations from the Virginia Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Best practices include training for election officers; limiting the number of people inside each polling place at one time; providing hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies at each polling place; using extensive signage and floor markers; and providing plexiglass shields between voters and staff where needed. Alexandria Medical Reserve Corps volunteers will serve as ambassadors to encourage proper mask use and physical distancing in outdoor lines and indoor polling places.

Curbside voting is available at all in-person voting locations, from now through November 3, including at each polling place on Election Day. Curbside voting is available for voters who are at least 65 years old, have a physical disability, or have symptoms of COVID-19. Follow signs at each location to request curbside assistance.

The process of voting does not require the voter to touch anything except the pen, ballot, and privacy folder. This year, voters are encouraged to keep the pens and privacy folders so they will not be reused. Recycling trays will be available for voters who do not wish to keep the pens or folders.

Voters who are sick or close contacts of individuals with COVID-19 should vote absentee by mail if they are likely to be under isolation or quarantine on November 3. Voters who are ill or under quarantine and miss an applicable absentee voting deadline should call the Office of Voter Registration and Elections at 703.746.4050 to learn about potential emergency absentee voting options.

WHAT’S ON THE BALLOT?

The ballot includes contests for President and Vice President of the United States, one member of the U.S. Senate, one member of the U.S. House of Representatives from the 8th Congressional District, and two amendments to the Constitution of Virginia.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Elections for complete information on this election, including voter registration requirements, sample ballots, precinct maps and ID requirements.

For more information or for reasonable disability accommodation, contact Angela Maniglia Turner, General Registrar and Director of Elections, at voters@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4050, Virginia Relay 711.

October 20th Update:

Released: October 19, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Caring for Someone Who is Sick

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers guidance for how to care for someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the household, whether or not they have symptoms of being sick. Helping with basic needs, such as grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions, ensuring they are following instructions for medication, and caring for pets can help alleviate concerns and reduce the possibility of exposure to others. It is very important to limit contact by eating in separate rooms or areas and avoiding shared personal items with the sick person. Frequently washing hands, sanitizing high-contact surfaces, using a separate trash can, and self-monitoring health are equally important to prevent spread of COVID-19. While providing care, watch for worsening symptoms and have the sick person’s doctor’s name and phone number available, and become familiar with warning signs that might require immediate attention. If a sick household member requires emergency medical care, call or text 911 and inform the dispatcher that the person has COVID-19 and any other pre-existing conditions. The City has developed a worksheet, “What To Do If You Get Sick,” which is also available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi, that provides easily accessible guidance and help take appropriate steps to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly by the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC). The Job-tober Northern Virginia Virtual Career Fair will take place on October 22, between 2 and 6 p.m., and offers job seekers the opportunity to speak with representatives from more than 65 hiring organizations. Several workshops are available this week to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including job interviewing skills (also in Spanish), job search skills, resume building skills, and preparing for a virtual job fair. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The Virginia Department of Health reported an increase of 18 cases and no fatalities in Alexandria as of October 17; 13 cases and no fatalities as of October 18; and 6 cases and 1 fatality as of October 19; bringing the total to 4,123 cases, including 75 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 19th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Community Mitigation Measures Reduce Spread

The City and AHD encourage residents and businesses to continue the good work of adhering to the mask ordinance and maintaining 6 feet of physical distance. A study in Arizona shows that community mitigation measures, including mandates to wear masks and enhanced sanitization, have a positive impact on reducing the spread of COVID-19. When state orders to close businesses and other public spaces were lifted, Arizona experienced a significant increase in positive cases, which required increased preventive measures. Local officials implemented mandates to wear masks in public, limit social gatherings and restaurant capacities, and closed gyms, bars, and movie theaters. As a result, numbers saw a significant decline in COVID-19 cases in less than a month. While studies on the effectiveness of mitigation measures are not yet conclusive, Alexandria’s efforts to follow public health guidance have avoided higher case and fatality counts.

Hazard Pay for Home Health Workers

Governor Ralph Northam has authorized funding from the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide hazard pay to home health workers who served high-risk populations during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Home health personal attendants who provided services to clients and Medicaid members between March 12 and June 30 are eligible to receive a one-time, pre-tax payment of $1,500. Home health workers in Virginia will also receive a 7% increase in pay over two years (starting July 1, 2020), and will be provided with personal protective equipment, including masks, gloves and hand sanitizer. The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services, which oversees Virginia’s Medicaid program, will administer the payments and equipment to eligible home health workers over the coming weeks.

Training and Resources for Businesses

Businesses play a key role in helping prevent the spread of COVID-19, by upholding state and local requirements in public places. The City and the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership are offering free training sessions from the National Center for Conflict Resolution to support businesses by ensuring employees are prepared to respectfully respond to clients and customers to achieve better outcomes. Registration is required for the two-hour training sessions, which will take place Monday, October 19, at 11:45 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and Tuesday, October 20, at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. The City has compiled additional resources to support businesses as they respond to the impacts of COVID-19.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. Approximately 85 residents were tested at Casa Chirilagua, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

9 New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,086, including 74 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 16th Update:

Released: October 15, 2020

To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Vaccine Planning

Researchers are working to develop vaccines for the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is coordinating closely with health departments and partners to develop plans to deliver the vaccines to the public once they are available. The safety of a COVID-19 vaccine is the top priority. Several vaccines are being developed, and some may be available before others. The supply of vaccines may be limited to start and is expected to increase over the first few months. The initial limited quantity may result in some groups being recommended to receive the vaccine first, which will be determined in the most fair and ethical way possible. The federal government has committed to making the vaccine available at no cost, however providers may be able to charge for administering the vaccine, and most insurance companies are expected to cover the cost. People without insurance will have access to the vaccine at no cost. The CDC’s frequently asked questions web page will continue to provide information on the plan for vaccine administration as it becomes available.

Accessibility to COVID-19 Resources

Testing, treatment and basic needs resources for anyone who has been exposed to or impacted by COVID-19 is available regardless of immigration status or insurance coverage. Since the virus does not discriminate, it is in the entire community’s interest that everyone stays healthy. For those without lawful permanent resident status, or who are concerned about immigration status or applications, download or view a list of testing locations that include anonymous testing options and healthcare facilities that do not ask for or require immigration status to receive services. Doctors and medical providers take privacy very seriously. The City has compiled a fact sheet of benefits that are subject to the public charge rule; frequently asked questions about public charge rule, which includes a full list of immigrants exempt from the rule; and a video about what to do if you are sick, available in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic.

20 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,077, including 73 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 15th Update:

Released: October 14, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

AHD Hosts Virtual Daycare Parent Town Halls

AHD is hosting two virtual COVID-19 Town Hall meetings to provide public health guidance to guardians of children attending daycare or other child care settings. Topics of discussion include when to keep a child home from daycare; when to get a child tested for COVID-19; when to return a child to daycare; and common infection scenarios. Guardians will be reminded of the steps they can take to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and share resources. The sessions are intended to be interactive, with time for questions at the end. Join a session on Thursday, October 15 at 6 p.m. or Monday, October 19 at 6 p.m.

Expanded Energy Assistance

Households impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic may qualify for assistance with energy bills, including those that have accumulated during the crisis. The Virginia COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program is available to low-income households that do not typically qualify for other Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) energy assistance programs. Each eligible household should apply online to receive a one-time payment of $300 that will address immediate energy needs. For additional information regarding the program and other energy assistance resources, visit the VDSS Benefits web page or call 833.829.2767.

Handwashing Resources

Global Handwashing Day is a yearly reminder of the importance of hand hygiene, which is a key way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends washing hands for at least 20 seconds, using soap and water. It is especially important for public places such as schools and health care facilities to make soap and water or hand sanitizer easily available. The City has produced numerous multilingual signs and flyers that remind everyone of the importance of washing hands. These materials are available to download; share on social media; and print for businesses, offices, homes or anywhere a reminder could be useful.

12 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,057, including 73 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 14th Update:

Released: October 13, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

CDC Expands Guidance on How to Trick-or-Treat Safely

The City and AHD strongly urge residents to choose activities to celebrate Halloween that are lower risk, such as pumpkin carving and virtual costume parties, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided additional guidance on how to stay safe while trick-or-treating. Households that will be giving out treats are encouraged to avoid contact by setting them outside on the honor system and to always wash hands before handling treats. Themed face coverings can become part of a costume, but it is important to understand that Halloween masks are not a substitute for a protective face mask over the nose and mouth, and should not be worn together to prevent restricted breathing. Always be sure that 6 feet of physical distance is maintained from those of other households. Bring hand sanitizer and reapply when children touch objects, and supervise young children to ensure they don’t ingest it. Wash hands for at least 20 seconds after returning home and consider wiping down treats before giving them to children. The City Halloween web page offers additional safety guidance.

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! will distribute emergency food at two drive-through sites on Saturday, October 17, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., at the parking lots of Cora Kelly (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and John Adams (5651 Rayburn Ave.) Elementary Schools. Bags of shelf stable groceries, chicken, and eggs will be distributed while supplies last. To maintain contactless food distribution, residents are encouraged to drive through and remain in their cars. Walk-up customers should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear a face mask, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. In response to food insecurity caused by impacts of COVID-19, 1.6 million meals have been distributed throughout Alexandria since Mid-March. Other resources for Alexandria residents who may need food assistance are also available.

# # #

Alexandria City Council Docket for Saturday, October 17, 2020 - Public Hearing Meeting

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic emergency, the October 17, 2020 Public Hearing Meeting of the Alexandria City Council is being held electronically pursuant to Virginia Code Section 2.2-3708.2(A)(#), the Continuity of Government ordinance adopted by the CIty Council on June 20, 2020 and Section 4.0-00(g) in HB29 and HB30 to undertake essential business. All the members of the City Council and staff are participating from remote locations through a video conference call on Zoom. The meeting can be accessed by the public through the live broadcast on the government channel 70, streaming on the City's website, and can be accessed via Zoom by following the link below:

URL: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oYVWNlj6TN-HWBTAaCj6nw
Webinar ID: 972 6945 2683
Webinar Passcode: 699682
Dial-in number: 301-715-8592

PLEASE LOG-IN EARLY IF POSSIBLE.

Links Meeting agenda and Live Webcast
The meeting will be webcast live and video and audio recordings will be available a few days after the meeting.

Zoom registration form
If you wish to use Zoom to watch this meeting or to address Council, you must register first. Those wishing to address Council should also submit a Speaker's Form using the link below.

Speaker's Form
https://survey.alexandriava.gov/s3/VIRTUAL-City-Council-Speakers-Form
Those wishing to address Council should submit a Speaker's Form. Submission of written statements is encouraged. Please sign up after the docket is created and you are able to verify the meeting date on the City's website. If the docket is not posted, you will have to return at a later date to complete the speaker's form in order to speak at a Council meeting.

******

Public Comment will be received at this meeting.

All persons wishing to speak before City Council must complete a Speaker's Form. If you have a prepared statement, you may email it to the City Clerk at gloria.sitton@alexandriava.gov. Speakers are encouraged to submit their written comments to the City Clerk.

The docket and supporting materials may be viewed at the following link:

https://legistar.granicus.com/alexandria/meetings/2020/10/2133_A_City_Council_Public_Hearing_20-10-17_Docket.pdf

October 13th Update:

Released: October 12, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Earthquake Preparedness Drill

The Alexandria Office of Emergency Management encourages everyone to participate in this year’s Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill on Thursday, October 15. The Great ShakeOut is an opportunity to practice safety measures during earthquakes. While COVID-19 has presented a number of challenges, residents can still participate in the international drill from home or at the office and be prepared for emergencies. Federal, state and local emergency management experts and other official preparedness organizations all agree that “ Drop, Cover, and Hold On” can reduce injury and death during earthquakes. Residents are reminded to update emergency kits with supplies that will protect the household from COVID-19, including extra face masks, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes. Alexandria’s Earthquake Preparedness Page provides additional information for how to prepare for an emergency. Businesses, departments and families can register to participate in the international Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill, and spread the word to remind others to be prepared. To receive emergency notifications by text or email, subscribe to the City’s free Alexandria eNews service at alexandriava.gov/eNews.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is compiled by the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC). This list is updated with new job opportunities every Monday. This week, the WDC is hosting a Meet the Employer event with Atlantic Personnel and several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including job search skills, resume building skills (also in Spanish), preparing for a virtual job fair, transferable skills. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The Virginia Department of Health reported an increase of 32 cases and no fatalities in Alexandria as of October 10; 18 cases and no fatalities as of October 11; and 5 cases and no fatalities as of October 12; bringing the total to 4,032 cases, including 73 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 9th Update:

Released: October 8, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Additional Funding for Rent and Mortgage Relief Program

Virginia’s Rent and Mortgage Relief Program will receive an additional $12 million in funding from the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to assist households and landlords avoid eviction or foreclosure as a result of impacts of COVID-19. This additional funding supplements the original $50 million, which has been exhausted due to high demand. Stable housing is critical to helping stop the spread of COVID-19. Current state and CDC eviction protections do not stop mortgage and rent payments from accumulating. The City has compiled a list of resources to help renters and property owners learn about the assistance options; understand their rights and the laws; and cope with the hardship of housing and financial instability.

City of Alexandria Reminds Residents of October 13 Deadline to Register to Vote or Update Voter Registration for November 3 Elections

The City of Alexandria reminds residents that the deadline to register to vote in the November 3 general and special election or update existing registrations is Tuesday, October 13. In Alexandria, the ballot includes contests for President and Vice President of the United States, one member of the U.S. Senate, the member of the U.S. House of Representatives from the 8th Congressional District of Virginia, and two amendments to the Constitution of Virginia.

CHECKING REGISTRATION

If you have moved since the last time you voted, please make sure you are registered at your current address. You may check your registration at vote.elections.virginia.gov, by email at voters@alexandriava.gov, or by calling 703.746.4050. Voters who do not update their registration records before the deadline are at risk of being ineligible to vote in this election.

NEW REGISTRATIONS AND ADDRESS UPDATES

The following voter registration methods are available to U.S. citizens living in Virginia who will be 18 or older by November 3, 2020:

Submit the application online at vote.elections.virginia.gov before midnight on the evening of October 13.
Register in person at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections (132 N. Royal St., Suite 100) by 5 p.m. on October 13.
Download an application at alexandriava.gov/Elections. Print, sign and mail the completed form to the Office of Voter Registration and Elections, 132 N. Royal St., Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22314. Applications must be postmarked on or before October 13.

Voter information letters for new or transferred registrants will be mailed within one week of the registration date.

ABSENTEE VOTING AND OTHER ELECTION INFORMATION

As of July 1, all registered voters in Virginia are eligible to vote absentee. Registered voters may vote absentee by mail or in person.

In-person absentee voting for this election continues until 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 31. To reduce wait times at voting locations, voters are encouraged to become familiar with ballot questions and voting procedures in advance. For a full list of voting locations and hours, visit alexandriava.gov/Elections.

DROP BOXES

Drop boxes are available during in-person voting hours, with the exception of the drop box in front of the Voter Registration Office (132 N. Royal St.), which is available and under video surveillance 24 hours a day through November 3 at 7 p.m. For a full list of voting locations and hours, visit alexandriava.gov/Elections.

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail is Friday, October 23. Applications must be received in the Voter Registration Office by 5 p.m. that day.

An absentee ballot may be returned by mail (postmarked by November 3); at an in-person voting site during its hours of operation; at the 24-hour drop box outside the Voter Registration Office by 7 p.m. on November 3; or at any polling place between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on November 3.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Elections to learn more about deadlines and other election information, including sample ballots, by mail ballot applications, in-person absentee voting hours, precinct maps and ID requirements.

For more information contact the Office of Voter Registration & Elections at voters@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4050, Virginia Relay 711.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact voters@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4050, Virginia Relay 711.

# # #

23 New COVID-19 Cases and 2 New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,961, including 73 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/118221.

October 8th Update:

Released: October 7, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

New Information for High Risk of Severe Illness from COVID-19

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published updated information about the risk of severe illness due to COVID-19 for adults and children with certain conditions. Data show that adults are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 if they have a body mass index of 30 or higher; smoke or have a history of smoking; or have underlying conditions such as cancer, heart conditions, Type 2 diabetes, or compromised immune systems. Other conditions that may increase the risk for severe illness to adults of any age include asthma, high blood pressure, pregnancy, and neurologic conditions, such as dementia. Children are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 if they have conditions such as asthma, diabetes, severe genetic disorders, and inherited metabolic disorders. However, it is not yet known who is most at risk for the rare but serious complication from COVID-19 called Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). The list of conditions that increase risk for serious illness is being updated as experts continue to study and learn about COVID-19.

Hand Sanitizer Warning and Recall Updates

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to issue warnings about the safety of using certain brands of hand sanitizer. Some hand sanitizers are being packaged in food and beverage containers, and some are being flavored, which can be confusing especially for children, who might ingest products that smell like food. Ingesting even small amounts of hand sanitizer can be potentially lethal for children and toxic for adults. The FDA also continues to screen and review hand sanitizer brands for ineffective ethanol levels, the presence of methanol and 1-propanol, and other harmful impurities. Symptoms of 1-propanol exposure can include confusion, decreased consciousness, and slowed pulse and breathing. Toxic effects of methanol can include changes in vision, vomiting, nausea, headache, or neurological symptoms. The FDA list of unsafe hand sanitizer brands is updated regularly and should be reviewed for recalled products to safely discard and avoid. Refer to the FDA’s guidelines on safe use of hand sanitizer as well as a question and answer page for more information.

6 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,938, including 71 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 7th Update:

Released: October 6, 2020

The City of Alexandria has partnered with ACT for Alexandria and other community nonprofit organizations to distribute grocery store gift cards to residents experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card Program provides eligible Alexandria residents with pre-paid grocery cards in denominations of $100, $200 and $400 through December, or for as long as funding is available. Grocery gift cards help residents purchase food based on their dietary needs and cultural preferences, and support greater physical distancing by reducing attendance at food distribution sites.

The program application requires documentation of loss of income and financial hardship due to COVID-19, and proof of residence in the City of Alexandria. Priority will be given to residents who have not received federal assistance during the pandemic.

Through the ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card Program, ACT for Alexandria awarded gift card funding to competitively selected nonprofit partners to distribute approximately 1,500 gift cards per month. Partners include African Communities Together, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington, Community Lodgings, Ethiopian Community Development Council, Northern Virginia Family Service, Tenants and Workers United, The Campagna Center and more.

The City has continued to address ongoing food insecurity caused by impacts of COVID-19 by designating an additional $1.53 million in funding from the Coronavirus Aid Relief for Economic Security (CARES) Act to expand and extend food assistance programs. An allocation of $950,000 is designated for the ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card Program and $580,000 for ALIVE! to continue large-scale food distributions and pantry support. Additional funding for other programs will allow Alexandrians to access prepared meals. This financial designation is in addition to the $2.4 million awarded earlier this year through the CARES Act, which has provided 1.6 million meals throughout Alexandria since Mid-March.

For more information and to apply, visit the Food Assistance page or call 703.746.FOOD (3663). For inquiries from the news media or reasonable disability accommodation only, contact jennifer.cohen@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3484, Virginia Relay 711.

# # #

Released: October 6, 2020

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has published an expanded analysis of data on COVID-19 cases in Alexandria. In addition to the monthly ZIP code data analyses AHD has published since May, the analysis provided in September and October summarizes current data and changes for race, ethnicity and age groups.

Updated ZIP Code Data

As of October 5, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has reported the following cumulative COVID-19 cases (the City of Alexandria has provided the estimated population for each local ZIP code to compare the number of cases per 1,000 residents).

Cumulative ZIP Code Data Summaries (by month)

ZIP Code	Estimated Population (in Alexandria portion of zip code)	Date of Report	Confirmed Cases per ZIP Code	Total People Tested	Positivity Rate ¹	Tests per 1,000 Alexandria Residents	Confirmed Cases per 1,000 Alexandria residents
22206	530	See note (2) below
22301	15,171	May 7 ⁴	35	282	12.4%	18.6	2.3
		June 9	68	685	9.9%	45.2	4.5
		July 7	90	1,106	8.1%	72.9	5.9
		Aug 5	98	1,760	5.6%	116.0	6.5
		Sept 5	127	2,618	4.9%	172.6	8.4
		Oct 5	146	3,471	4.2%	228.8	9.6
22302	20,238	May 7 ⁴	101	378	26.7%	18.7	5.0
		June 9	220	1,364	16.1%	67.4	10.9
		July 7	252	2,636	9.6%	130.3	12.5
		Aug 5	285	3,592	7.9%	177.5	14.1
		Sept 5	356	4,736	7.5%	234.0	17.6
		Oct 5	415	6,163	6.7%	304.5	20.5
22304	54,003	May 7 ⁴	296	1,142	25.9%	21.1	5.5
		June 9	611	3,418	17.9%	63.3	11.3
		July 7	707	4,873	14.5%	90.2	13.1
		Aug 5	851	7,098	12.0%	131.4	15.8
		Sept 5	1,074	9,923	10.8%	183.7	19.9
		Oct 5	1,220	12,632	9.7%	233.9	22.6
22305	16,095	May 7 ⁴	317	572	55.4%	35.5	19.7
		June 9	572	1,899	30.1%	118.0	35.5
		July 7	594	2,414	24.6%	150.0	36.9
		Aug 5	656	3,239	20.3%	201.2	40.8
		Sept 5	723	4,236	17.1%	263.2	44.9
		Oct 5	794	5,129	15.5%	318.7	49.3
22311 ³	16,898	May 7 ⁴	190 ³	517 ³	36.8% ³	See note (3) below
		June 9	417 ³	1,927 ³	21.6% ³
		July 7	464 ³	2,502 ³	18.5% ³
		Aug 5	547 ³	3,462 ³	15.8% ³
		Sept 5	643 ³	5,059 ³	12.7% ³
		Oct 5	712 ³	6,116 ³	11.6% ³
22312 ³	6,901	May 7 ⁴	196 ³	659 ³	29.7% ³
		June 9	529 ³	2,047 ³	25.8% ³
		July 7	616 ³	2,989 ³	20.6% ³
		Aug 5	734 ³	4,245 ³	17.3% ³
		Sept 5	908 ³	6,004 ³	15.1% ³
		Oct 5	1,010 ³	7,548 ³	13.4% ³
22314	47,826	May 7 ⁴	113	687	16.4%	14.4	2.4
		June 9	185	1,645	11.2%	34.4	3.9
		July 7	216	2,594	8.3%	54.2	4.5
		Aug 5	265	4,142	6.4%	86.6	5.5
		Sept 5	343	6,276	5.5%	131.2	7.2
		Oct 5	423	8,248	5.1%	172.5	8.8

¹ The positivity rate is the number of confirmed cases divided by the number of tests.

⁴ Data is cumulative from the onset of the pandemic to May 7, and includes cases and tests over a period greater than one month.

Significant Changes since September 5, 2020 Analysis Using Cumulative Data

As expected with ongoing community transmission of COVID-19, there has been an increase in cumulative positive cases per 1,000 residents. The range of rates in the September 5 analysis was 7.2 (in 22314) to 44.9 (in 22305), and the range in the October 5 analysis is 8.8 to 49.3, with the same ZIP codes having the highest and lowest confirmed cases.

In the September analysis, the cumulative percent positivity ranged from 4.9% to 17.1%. In the October analysis, the range is 4.2% to 15.5%. The ZIP code with the highest cumulative positivity rates since May remains 22305, but this ZIP code has also experienced a 70% reduction in its cumulative positivity rate since the initial analysis. ZIP code 22301 continues to have the lowest cumulative positivity rate since May.

AHD and the City have worked with Alexandria’s healthcare providers and community partners to increase both testing availability and testing awareness across all ZIP codes in Alexandria. Timely testing is just one part of the multipronged pandemic response strategy, and prevention of new infections remains the priority. It is important for all members of the community to practice physical distancing, wear masks, wash hands frequently, and cooperate with case investigations and contact tracing when called by public health staff.

It is also important to look at the data monthly to understand the current state of the pandemic. The following analysis is a monthly snapshot of new cases and tests since the prior month’s report. Four ZIP codes (22301, 22302, 22304, and 22312) have experienced decreases, while three ZIP codes (22305, 22311, and 22314) have experienced increases in their positivity rates as noted in the October analysis.

Monthly ZIP Code Data Summaries

ZIP Code	Estimated Population (in Alexandria portion of ZIP code)	Date of Report	Confirmed Cases per ZIP Code	Total People Tested	Positivity Rate ¹	Tests per 1,000 Alexandria Residents	Confirmed Cases per 1,000 Alexandria residents
22206	530	See note (2) below
22301	15,171	May 7 ⁴	35	282	12.4%	18.6	2.3
		June 9	33	403	8.2%	26.6	2.2
		July 7	22	421	5.2%	27.8	1.5
		Aug 5	8	654	1.2%	43.1	0.5
		Sept 5	29	858	3.4%	56.6	1.9
		Oct 5	19	853	2.2%	56.2	1.3
22302	20,238	May 7 ⁴	101	378	26.7	18.7	5.0
		June 9	119	986	12.1%	48.7	5.9
		July 7	32	1272	2.5%	62.9	1.6
		Aug 5	33	956	3.5%	47.2	1.6
		Sept 5	71	1,144	6.2%	56.5	3.5
		Oct 5	59	1,427	4.1%	70.5	2.9
22304	54,003	May 7 ⁴	296	1,142	25.9%	21.1	5.5
		June 9	315	2,276	13.8%	42.1	5.8
		July 7	96	1,455	6.6%	26.9	1.8
		Aug 5	144	2,225	6.5%	41.2	2.7
		Sept 5	223	2,825	7.9%	52.3	4.1
		Oct 5	146	2,709	5.4%	50.2	2.7
22305	16,095	May 7 ⁴	317	572	55.4%	35.5	19.7
		June 9	255	1,327	19.2%	82.4	15.8
		July 7	22	515	4.3%	32.0	1.4
		Aug 5	62	825	7.5%	51.3	3.9
		Sept 5	67	997	6.7%	61.9	4.2
		Oct 5	71	893	8.0%	55.5	4.4
22311 ³	16,898	May 7 ⁴	190 ³	517 ³	36.8% ³	See note (3) below
		June 9	227 ³	1,410 ³	16.1% ³
		July 7	47 ³	575 ³	8.2% ³
		Aug 5	83 ³	960 ³	8.6% ³
		Sept 5	96 ³	1,597 ³	6.0% ³
		Oct 5	69 ³	1,057 ³	6.5% ³
22312 ³	6,901	May 7⁴	196 ³	659 ³	29.7% ³
		June 9	333 ³	1,388 ³	24.0% ³
		July 7	87 ³	942 ³	9.2% ³
		Aug 5	118 ³	1,256 ³	9.4% ³
		Sept 5	174 ³	1,759 ³	9.9% ³
		Oct 5	102 ³	1,44 ³	6.6% ³
22314	47,826	May 7 ⁴	113	687	16.4%	14.4	2.4
		June 9	72	958	7.5%	20.0	1.5
		July 7	31	949	3.3%	19.8	0.6
		Aug 5	49	1,548	3.2%	32.4	1.0
		Sept 5	78	2,134	3.7%	44.6	1.6
		Oct 5	80	1,972	4.1%	41.2	1.7

¹ The positivity rate is the number of confirmed cases divided by the number of tests.

² ZIP code 22206 is mostly in Arlington County; the Alexandria portion of data for 22206 is not provided, therefore the numbers and calculations would not be reliable for reporting for Alexandria.

⁴ Data is cumulative from the onset of the pandemic to May 7, and includes cases and tests over a period greater than one month.

Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 by Race and Ethnicity

Everyone is at risk for COVID-19, but it has disproportionately affected vulnerable populations throughout the United States, in Virginia, regionally, and within our community due to underlying systemic problems. VDH has published data on COVID-19 cases by race and ethnicity since the middle of June. The following table and charts present the cumulative case data by month.

Cumulative Race and Ethnicity Data Summary

Race or Ethnicity	Cumulative Cases as of July 5	Cumulative Cases as of August 5	Cumulative Cases as of September 5	Cumulative Cases as of October 5
Latino	1306 (55.0%)	1482 (51.6%)	1656 (47.6%)	1820 (46.3%)
Black	347 (14.6%)	524 (18.2%)	703 (20.2%)	816 (20.8%)
White	451 (19.0%)	531 (18.5%)	672 (19.3%)	770 (19.6%)
Asian or Pacific Islander	84 (3.5%)	99 (3.4%)	121 (3.5%)	139 (3.5%)
Other Race	40 (1.7%)	48 (1.7%)	76 (2.2%)	84 (2.1%)
Two or more races	4 (0.2%)	6 (0.2%)	21 (0.6%)	28 (0.7%)
Native American	3 (0.1%)	2 (0.1%)	3 (0.1%)	4 (0.1%)
Not Reported	141 (5.9%)	180 (6.3%)	224 (6.4%)	266 (6.8%)
Total	2,376	2,872	3,476	3,927

Individuals who identify as Latino or Hispanic make up 16.8% of the population in Alexandria, but as of October 5, this community represents 46.3% of the diagnosed COVID-19 infections. There has been a decline in the proportion of cumulative COVID-19 infections diagnosed among Latinos over time.

Monthly New Case Race and Ethnicity Data

Race	New cases from July 6-August 5	New cases from August 6-September 5	New cases from September 6-October 5
Latino	176 (35.5%)	174 (28.8%)	164 (36.4%)
Black	177 (35.7%)	179 (29.6%)	113 (25.1%)
White	80 (16.1%)	141 (23.3%)	98 (21.7%)
Asian or Pacific Islander	15 (3.0%)	22 (3.6%)	18 (4.0%)
Other Race	8 (1.6%)	28 (4.6%)	8 (1.8%)
Two or more races	2 (0.4%)	15 (2.5%)	7 (1.6%)
Native American	0 (0.0%)	1 (0.2%)	1 (0.2%)
Not Reported	39 (7.9%)	44 (7.3%)	42 (9.3%)
Total	496	604	451

When looking at COVID-19 cases diagnosed from September 6 through October 5, 25.1% of cases were among individuals who identify as Black, which is a small decrease from the prior month. Individuals who identify as Latino comprised 36.4% of cases during the same period, which is an increase from the prior month. The percentage of newly diagnosed people identifying as white slightly decreased in this monthly analysis, from 23.3% to 21.7%. If cases were proportionate by populations, AHD would expect to see whites with the highest number of cases with almost double the number of cases compared to the Black population.

Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 by Age

When looking at cumulative data, the largest proportion of cases continue to be among those 30 to 39 years old, which is to be expected based on Alexandria’s population.

Cumulative Age Data Summary

Age (yrs)	May 5	June 5	July 5	August 5	September 5	October 5
0-9	41	116	133	162	217	265
10-19	50	134	170	211	241	279
20-29	138	311	377	499	634	740
30-39	247	479	549	663	810	902
40-49	187	390	439	530	614	681
50-59	131	264	305	359	445	493
60-69	87	173	200	232	268	292
70-79	57	90	101	108	121	140
80+	44	78	90	97	115	124
Missing	1	10	12	11	11	11
Total	983	2,045	2,376	2,872	3,476	3,927

Monthly New Case Age Data Summary

Those who are 20 to 29 years old represent the largest proportion of new cases from September 6 to October 5. There was an increase in cases during this same time period seen among the 10 to 19 and 70 to 79 age groups.

Age (yrs)	New Cases (May 6-June 5)	New Cases (June 6-July 5)	New Cases (July 6-Aug 5)	New Cases (Aug 6-Sept 5)	New Cases (Sept 6-Oct 5)
0-9	75	17	29	55	48
10-19	84	36	41	30	38
20-29	173	66	122	135	106
30-39	232	70	114	147	92
40-49	203	49	91	84	67
50-59	133	41	54	86	48
60-69	86	27	32	36	24
70-79	33	11	7	13	19
80+	34	12	7	18	9
Missing	9	2	0	0	0
Total	1,062	331	496	604	451

What the Alexandria Health Department is Doing

AHD activities in the past month to combat the COVID-19 pandemic include:

Conducted annual flu vaccination clinics on September 26 and October 3 and administered over 1,800 flu vaccines. This represents a four-fold increase in the number of vaccinations provided in prior years’ clinics. Anyone who has not yet gotten the flu vaccine this year should schedule an appointment with their physician or pharmacy, or visit the flu page for more information.
Preparing to distribute a COVID-19 vaccine equitably and efficiently once a safe vaccine is available.
Responding to cases and outbreaks in the community. AHD case investigators and contact tracers work seven days a week to help minimize the spread of COVID-19 infection. AHD is analyzing aggregate data on cases to help inform best infection prevention practices.
Providing technical support to Neighborhood Health to organize and coordinate weekly targeted testing events for communities who may not have otherwise had access to testing and for those who have been exposed to a positive COVID-19 case. AHD analyzes data and identifies these communities based on need. There are five testing events in October and AHD and the City maintain resources regarding testing facilities in Alexandria and surrounding areas where Alexandrians can get tested any day of the week.
Supporting City agencies, faith based organizations, schools, daycares, and governmental leadership with recommendations based on up-to-date COVID-19 epidemiology and research.
Responding to complaints about businesses not adhering to the Governor’s Executive Order and supporting businesses in their commitment to the ALX Promise.

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/118187.

October 6th Update:

Released: October 5, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

COVID-19 Airborne Transmission Confirmed

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that while COVID-19 is most commonly spread by close contact, the coronavirus can be spread through airborne transmission under certain conditions. People within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 are generally at greatest risk of developing the infection when respiratory droplets carrying the virus are inhaled or deposited on mucous membranes of the nose or mouth. Airborne transmission can occur when someone with COVID-19 is in an enclosed space with inadequate ventilation, or has been breathing heavily such as through singing or exercising. Under these circumstances, droplets and particles carrying the virus become concentrated enough for others in the same space, or shortly after the infected person has left, to become infected. AHD advises property owners to ensure their HVAC systems are properly maintained and use the highest grade filters their systems can accommodate. It is vital for everyone to wear masks when in public, and for those who are ill to stay home.

Resources for COVID-19 Testing

The City and AHD have partnered with Neighborhood Health, with assistance from Medical Reserve Corps volunteers, to conduct weekly targeted COVID-19 testing events in Alexandria’s communities where the rate of positive cases are high. The purpose of these free testing events is to reach those who don’t have access to care, are uninsured or might not have identification. The City has compiled COVID-19 testing resources, including a symptom checker to help determine the need for COVID-19 testing and an interactive map to find testing locations. Guidance materials for next steps following a positive test result are also available in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic and can be downloaded.

Alexandria B2B Grant Application Deadline Extended to Wednesday

The application deadline for the second round of Alexandria Back to Business (ALX B2B) grants has been extended to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9. Grant funds will be available to qualifying small businesses and certain nonprofits to offset costs or investments related to reopening and rescaling their business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program eligibility criteria for the second round of grants expanded to include additional types of businesses and nonprofit childcare providers. Grants amounts will range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the number of employees. The application is available online through the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) provides resources to residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19. The WDC has partnered with Virginia Career Works to develop the Northern Virginia Airports Rapid Response Layoff Services program to assist furloughed and laid off airline employees, and airport operations employees. WDC publishes a list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly, and hosts Meet the Employer and career fair events. There are also virtual workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including job interviewing skills (also in Spanish), job search skills (also in Spanish), and networking skills. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The Virginia Department of Health reported an increase of 20 cases and one fatality in Alexandria as of October 3; 19 cases and no fatalities as of October 4; and 15 cases and no fatalities as of October 5; bringing the total to 3,927 cases, including 70 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 5th Update:

Read and share the latest information and articles about the work the Department of Community and Human Services is doing to support, increase and maintain the well-being, safety and self-sufficiency of all Alexandrians during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.

Weekly Resources Update: Free Flu Shots, Business Grants, Public Charge Rule Resources, Job Seeker Resources and More

Share these resources for individuals and families in need or impacted by the COVID-19 crisis with your neighbors and networks.

Update on Public Charge Rule, Guidance on Accessing COVID-19 Related Benefits

Learn about guidance regarding accessing COVID-19 relief and access a fact sheet and chart illustrating the impact certain benefits may have on public charge determinations.

Regional Job Fair on October 22

The free event will give Northern Virginia job seekers and employers the opportunity to meet via chat and video.

October 2nd Update:

Released: October 1, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Inova Offers Vehicle-Side Testing in Alexandria

Inova now offers vehicle-side and walk-in testing services for diagnosing flu and COVID-19, at several Northern Virginia locations including Alexandria. Residents who have been screened and have a provider’s order to be tested can receive vehicle-side testing at the Victory Center parking lot location (5001 Eisenhower Ave.). This location replaces Inova Primary Care on Washington Street in Old Town, which will no longer offer Respiratory Illness Clinic services. Vehicle-side testing is available by appointment only. Vehicle-side and walk-in services are available in several additional Northern Virginia locations daily, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Medicaid customers and the uninsured are encouraged to contact Inova Cares Clinics for Families for virtual COVID-19 screenings.

Guidance for Students Returning from Campus Outbreaks

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers guidance for students who are returning home from college and university campuses that are experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak. The information is also available in Arabic, Chinese, Korean, and Spanish. It is important for students returning from campus outbreaks or other COVID-19 exposure to quarantine at home for 14 days and monitor their health.

Those who develop symptoms should contact their health care providers to be tested and should remain in quarantine even if they test negative for the coronavirus. Students should also be tested if they are informed by a health department contact tracer that they were in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Students who test positive should remain in isolation for 10 days from the onset of symptoms or a positive test result, and until they have not had a fever for 24 hours without the assistance of medication. The guidance includes information about protecting the household from the spread of COVID-19 while someone is in quarantine or isolation. VDH also has other resources and support available for parents and students.

Eligible Business Grant Expenses Include Expanded Outdoor Dining and Sales

Round Two of the Alexandria Back to Business grants program is open through noon on Monday, October 5. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 are available to help Alexandria-based small businesses that have been negatively affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Funds must be used to offset costs or investments related to reopening or rescaling a business. Acceptable uses include rent, equipment and supplies that promote health and safety, and purchases made to help a business adapt to new operating circumstances like outdoor dining. As long as the funds are used appropriately, repayment is not required.

"From the beginning of this crisis, City Council and City staff have worked to support our small businesses as they adapt to survive," said Mayor Justin Wilson. "As they continue to transition to safely serve their customers, we encourage businesses to apply for Back to Business grants for all eligible costs."

Since mid-March, the City has been providing regulatory flexibility to help businesses cope with the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. These actions have removed barriers for businesses to make the shift to outdoor dining and sales, facilitate curbside pickup and delivery, and provide rapid turnaround on applications with fees suspended. Restaurants and other businesses can receive permits to use parking spaces, including on-street parking spaces, for outdoor dining, retail sales, and health and fitness services.

At its October 6 meeting, City Council will consider extending the current mid-November expiration of this initiative to March 31, 2021, and is expected to ask City staff to present a proposal for a further extension. Businesses interested in using Back to Business grant funding for outdoor expansion or any other eligible expenses should apply by the deadline of noon on October 5.

7 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,859, including 69 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

October 1st Update:

For Immediate Released: September 30, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

City Mask Ordinance Effective Tomorrow

Beginning Thursday, October 1, a new ordinance goes into effect requiring that masks are worn over the nose and mouth in indoor and outdoor public places. The ordinance, which was adopted by City Council on September 12, expands on a state executive order that has required masks in most indoor public settings since May 29. Wearing masks has been proven to limit the spread of COVID-19. Find information about mask requirements, the state executive order and helpful tips and videos about how to wear masks correctly. The City has also produced numerous signs, flyers and videos that explain when, where and how to use masks while COVID-19 remains present in the community. These materials are available for download and print, or reproduction can be requested.

WMATA Seeks Public Comment on Service Changes

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is seeking public comment on a proposal to cut Metrorail and bus services. Several issues are having a negative impact on WMATA’s budget, including ridership being down 80% from pre-pandemic numbers, Metrobus not collecting fares since March, and the added cost of maintaining safety measures that have been put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The funding from the Coronavirus Aid Relief Economic Security (CARES) Act has played a large role in covering the budget shortfall and will end in December. WMATA will have to furlough and lay off employees; reduce Metrorail hours of operation and reduce services; and defer capital program expenses. Alexandrians are invited to attend and participate in a virtual public hearing on Tuesday, October 13, at 3 p.m. to share feedback about the impact proposed WMATA changes. Residents are also encouraged to provide input in an online survey, which is open until 9 a.m. October 19th, 2020.

Affordable Rental Housing Opportunities

The City of Alexandria’s Office of Housing provides housing counseling services for persons seeking affordable rental and accessible housing in the City and regularly publishes a list of current vacancies in affordable rental communities. The list includes unit type, monthly rent, income requirements, and occupancy limits. The September 2020 list is now posted under the Office of Housing’s Renter Resources. Applicants interested in a specific unit should contact the property directly.

For questions regarding the Office of Housing’s renter, homeowner, and homebuyer programs and resources, please contact us at 703.746.4990, download our Housing Resource Guides in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Amharic, or visit our webpage.

September 30th Update:

Released: September 29, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Contact Tracing In Many Languages

Contact tracing plays a critical role in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the community. AHD will initiate a case investigation when staff receive information that an Alexandria resident has tested positive for COVID-19. The process includes providing resources and guidance for how to quarantine safely and reaching out to everyone who has had close contact with the person who tested positive, while maintaining confidentiality. AHD will provide resources and guidance about how to protect others and will never ask for bank account information, immigration status, social security number or other information unrelated to the case. A Case Investigation and Contact Tracing Guide explains the contact tracing process, and is now available in Spanish, Amharic, and Arabic. These fact sheets are available for download and print, or prints can be requested.

Locks & Lockboxes Help Prevent Suicide

The heightened stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic make it especially important to be aware of ways to safeguard mental health and the steps to prevent suicide. Studies show that 61% of people who complete suicide use firearms and 19% use poisons or medication. The City offers locks for firearms and lockboxes for medications at no cost to residents through the Lock & Talk program, which helps to prevent suicides by limiting access to lethal means. This program is facilitated by the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia.

16 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,841, including 69 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/118033.

September 29th Update:

Released: September 28, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Rent and Mortgage Relief Expands to Landlords

The Commonwealth of Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program (RMRP) that was initiated under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, Economic Security (CARES) Act to assist households in preventing evictions and foreclosures due to COVID-19 is expanding to support landlords. The RMRP provides a one-time payment with the opportunity for renewal based upon availability of funding, the household’s need for additional assistance, and continued eligibility. Under this new expansion, landlords who have tenants that qualify for the RMRP can receive financial assistance for rent or mortgage payments past due beginning April 1, 2020. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) moratorium on eviction proceedings does not prevent rent and mortgage payments from accumulating. Virginia and the City are working to provide resources to maintain housing stability and encourage landlords to work with their lending institution to understand their rights and responsibilities, and seek assistance if needed. Eviction prevention programs, resources and information are available through the Alexandria Office of Housing.

New Pandemic Metrics Dashboard with Metrics for Schools

Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) released a Pandemic Metrics Dashboard which includes weekly updates on COVID-19 transmission trends to help guide local decision makers on mitigation strategies. The new dashboard also includes a CDC School Metrics tab that can inform school operational decisions when combined with guidance from local health departments. Beyond local data on COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the CDC School Metrics include the status of the school's implementation of five key mitigation strategies: consistent and correct use of masks, social distancing, hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, cleaning and disinfection, and contact tracing in collaboration with the local health department. Although the data in the CDC School Metrics tab can be viewed by jurisdiction, it is critical to consider regional data because many Northern Virginians do not live and work in the same jurisdiction and transmission rates may differ.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is compiled by the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC). This list is updated with new job opportunities every Monday. Job seekers are encouraged to register for a Meet the Employer event featuring Atlantic Personnel Search on October 15 and the Northern Virginia Virtual Career Fair on October 22. WDC also offers workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search. Workshop topics this week include job interviewing skills, job search skills, and networking skills. All Meet the Employer events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

24-New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The Virginia Department of Health reported an increase of 24 cases and no fatalities in Alexandria as of September 26; 10 cases and no fatalities as of September 27; and 11 cases and no fatalities as of September 28; bringing the total to 3,825 cases, including 69 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

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September 28th Update:

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) and the City of Alexandria conducted a free drive-through flu shot clinic today at T.C. Williams High School. The clinic, which was open to adults and adolescents age 12 and over, administered flu vaccines to 840 participants, with assistance from AHD’s Medical Reserve Corps volunteers and support from multiple City agencies and staff. AHD encourages everyone to get a flu vaccine as an important step for personal and community health. It is even more essential this year because the influenza virus shares many symptoms with COVID-19. Annual flu vaccinations are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older.

A walk-up clinic will be held on Saturday, October 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Francis C. Hammond Middle School (4646 Seminary Road). Parking will be available. The clinic will be open to adults and children ages 6 months and older. Flu shots will be available at no cost, and proof of residency or insurance will not be required. The higher dose version of the flu shot for seniors will not be available at the clinic, but may be available through a pharmacy or healthcare provider.

Each participant must wear a mask over their nose and mouth at all times and maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others, except when necessary for flu shot clinic operations. Please do not attend if you are feeling sick, even with mild symptoms. Everyone is encouraged to bring a pen to complete forms and minimize shared materials.

For more information about the flu and flu vaccine, visit the CDC Frequently Asked Questions page. Visit alexandriava.gov/Health to learn more about free flu shot clinics.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov or 703.746.4914.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact jasmin.johnson@vdh.virginia.gov or call 703.746.4952, Virginia Relay 711.

September 25th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

COVID-19 Reporting Requirements for Businesses

The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) established regulations that require all businesses to report an employee that tests positive for COVD-19 to their health department within 24 hours of receiving notification. This emergency temporary standard is intended to establish requirements for employers to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace and supplements any existing DOLI laws or standards. AHD created a secure and confidential online portal to help simplify the reporting process for local businesses. Once the report is submitted, the business may be contacted by a member of the AHD contact tracing team. Learn more about the contact tracing process (Spanish, Amharic, Arabic).

Importance of Avoiding Gatherings

The City reminds residents to avoid gatherings whenever possible, and that wearing face masks and maintaining 6 feet of physical distance can prevent the spread of COVID-19 when participating in events. An August wedding in Maine exceeded the legal limit for indoor gatherings and has been linked to more than 175 associated cases and at least seven deaths. None of the people who died attended the wedding. Six of the deaths were residents of a nearby long-term care facility, and the virus is believed to have been introduced by employees who attended the wedding or lived with an attendee. Associated cases have also been identified in multiple long-term care facilities and the county’s jail. The outbreak at the jail has been attributed to an employee who attended the wedding, resulting in at least 84 cases, including nearly half of the incarcerated population and employees, as well as 17 household contacts of employees. Until recently, Maine has had a relatively low number of positive cases of COVID-19 compared to other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s video illustrates how quickly the virus can spread between attendees of gatherings.

Multilingual COVID-19 Resources

Studies show that communities where English is not the first language have been significantly impacted by COVID-19. The City offers a catalog of multilingual resources, containing informational and educational signs, flyers and videos, that are available in Amharic, Arabic, Spanish and Farsi. This helps to ensure that all of Alexandria’s residents have access to information about how to stop the spread of COVID-19, what to do if they are sick, and the resources available when they need assistance. A “translate” button is also available at the top of the COVID-19 webpage, which can translate all the information provided into 11 languages. All multilingual signs and flyers are available for download and print, or reproduction can be requested.

20 New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,761, including 69 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

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September 24th Update:

Released: September 23, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute food at two drive-through sites on Saturday, September 26, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lots of Cora Kelly (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and John Adams (5651 Rayburn Ave.) Elementary Schools. Bags of shelf stable groceries, chicken, and eggs will be distributed while supplies last. To maintain no-contact food distribution, residents are encouraged to drive through and remain in their cars. Walk-up customers are permitted but should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear a face mask, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Other resources for Alexandria residents who may need food assistance are also available.

Access Unclaimed Stimulus Checks

Economic Impact Payments (EIP), or “stimulus checks,” are a key provision of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help Americans make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many Alexandrians, especially those who do not typically earn enough to file a tax return, may not know they are eligible or how to request and receive their payments. Residents who are eligible for an EIP who have not received one should learn how to claim their CARES stimulus checks before the October 15 deadline. The U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers resources to organizations who support these populations to help with outreach to ensure individuals receive their stimulus checks.

September 23rd Update:

Released: 9/22/2020

Complete the 2020 Census by September 30th

The City of Alexandria reminds residents that the deadline for completing the 2020 Census is September 30. Help ensure that Alexandria receives its fair share of resources to provide needed programs and services. An accurate count makes sure all Alexandrians are fairly represented in federal and state government, and that $675 billion in federal resources are allocated correctly across state and local jurisdictions.

Each resident has the power to shape Alexandria’s future for the next 10 years. Complete the Census today online at 2020census.gov, by phone at 844.330.2020 or when a Census taker visits. It’s fast, easy, confidential and takes less than 10 minutes to complete.

Door-to-door visits by census takers are underway. Households that have already responded may still receive follow-up visits as quality checks to ensure everyone is counted.

Last month, the U.S. Census Bureau and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a joint statement to inform the public that participation in 2020 Census interviews presents a low risk of COVID-19 transmission. Census takers are trained to rigorously and universally follow CDC recommendations to wear face masks; maintain a physical distance of 6 feet or more; practice hand hygiene; not enter homes; and conduct interviews outside when possible or practical, to mitigate risk of coronavirus transmission.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Census2020 for more information about the Census in Alexandria.

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

U.S. Fatality Milestone Underscores Need to Remain Vigilant

With more than 200,000 U.S. fatalities due to COVID-19, it is critical to remain vigilant about the actions we can all take to prevent illness, for both our own health and that of our neighbors. More than 10,675 Virginians have been hospitalized since the pandemic began (including 314 Alexandrians), and 3,060 have died (including 68 Alexandrians). Beyond hospitalization and death, there are still many unknowns about the long-term effects of COVID-19. While some people may experience mild illness or no symptoms at all, others may be sick for weeks, even if they did not have underlying health conditions. There is evidence that long-term damage to organs may remain even after patients are generally recovered from the illness.

Inova Now Testing Blood Donations for COVID-19 Antibody

Inova Blood Donor Services is now testing all successful blood donations for the COVID-19 antibody, and will notify donors of the results. In addition to the standard pre-screening qualifications that must be met prior to giving blood, donors must be feeling healthy and well on the day of donation. To protect donors and staff from the spread of COVID-19, donation center beds, chairs and frequently touched surfaces are being sanitized using approved disinfecting products after each use; staff has been reduced to ensure physical distancing and are required to have their temperatures taken twice daily; staff and donors must wear masks at all times. All blood donation products are single-use to ensure sanitation. Residents who have tested positive for COVID-19 and fully recovered with no symptoms for 14 days should consider donating their plasma, which could help others who are actively fighting the infection. Make an appointment to safely donate whole blood, double red cells, plasma or platelets.

11 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,727, including 68 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 22nd Update:

Released: September 21, 2020

Study on Transmission Settings

A recent study examining close contacts and community spread found that adults who tested positive for COVID-19 were approximately twice as likely to have reported dining at a restaurant in the previous two weeks than those with negative COVID-19 test results. The researchers note that masks cannot be effectively worn while eating and drinking, whereas shopping and numerous other indoor activities do not preclude mask use. Although these results represent only one study with numerous limitations, it does emphasize the importance of physical distancing and wearing masks

New Guidance for Safe Nursing Home Visits

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued revised guidance with detailed recommendations for nursing homes to safely facilitate visitation during the COVID-19 pandemic. After several months of visitor restrictions designed to slow the spread of COVID-19, CMS recognizes that physical separation from family and other loved ones has taken a significant toll on nursing home residents. CMS has revised guidance to help nursing homes facilitate visitation in both indoor and outdoor settings and in compassionate care situations. The guidance also outlines certain core principles and best practices to reduce the risk of illness transmission such as waiting until a facility has not had a case in 14 days, limiting the number of visitors in at a time, and their movement throughout the facility.

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Purchase Bricks for 100th Anniversary Memorial

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame invite the public to purchase personalized bricks to create a memorial walkway recognizing the 100th anniversary of Parker-Gray High School. The walkway, which will consist of the Parker-Gray Bulldog mascot and engraved bricks to honor teachers, students, individuals, families, houses of worship and the greater community, will be located at the main entrance of the Charles Houston Recreation Center (900 Wythe St.). The initial brick purchase campaign will end September 30. A community dedication and unveiling is planned for late October.

The school opened in September 1920 at the site of the current recreation center, and provided African American children with comprehensive education at a time when segregation and lack of resources, teachers, and facilities threatened what is now understood as a fundamental right of every child.

Visit the project website to purchase a brick or get more information.

For inquiries from the news media inquiries or reasonable disability accommodation requests only, contact Jack Browand at jack.browand@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5504, Virginia Relay 711.

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Online Community Engagement Opportunities

Between March and May, Stonebridge and Inova Health Systems held a series of online community engagement opportunities regarding the proposed Oakville Triangle redevelopment. The proposal will require amendments to the Oakville Triangle & Route 1 Corridor Vision Plan and Urban Design Standards & Guidelines approved in 2015. During the online engagement opportunities, the applicants discussed proposed amendments and responded to community comments which can be viewed on the project website. Since that time, the applicants have submitted concept development applications for three development blocks (Blocks A1, A2, and B), an infrastructure site plan, and are working with City staff and the community on the open space plan for Block C.

The community is invited to participate in the applicants’ next virtual meeting this Thursday, September 24 at 6 p.m., which will focus exclusively on the design of the new open space. The live presentation will be held via Zoom where the community may ask questions directly in the online forum. Meeting topics include a summary of community feedback received from the July open space online engagement opportunity and a presentation for design concepts developed from those results.

A link to the virtual meeting is provided below and is also posted on the project website. Accompanying materials will be posted prior to the meeting date.

Meeting access:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84923831839?pwd=R0pzMnRyallSeUpMZWRtZnJERjhqZz09
Call in number: 301-715-8592
Passcode: 233209
Webinar ID: 849 2383 1839

A recording of the meeting and an online feedback portal for community comments will be posted to the project website following the live presentation.

The City, Stonebridge and Inova Health Systems are committed to engaging the community and obtaining feedback on this project and are working together to facilitate the best possible process during this time. Once restrictions on physical distancing are lifted, in-person community meetings will occur throughout this process to supplement the online engagement prior to the public hearings which are anticipated for the fall.

For more information on the Oakville Triangle Plan Update and to access meeting materials, visit alexandriava.gov/Planning. Questions? Contact Richard Lawrence Jr., AICP, 703.746.3849.

September 21st Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

VDH Announces Antibody Study Results

In an effort to estimate the number of people in the state who have contracted COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health conducted a serology study in partnership with health systems from all regions. Of those with evidence of past or recent infection, 66% were presumed to have had an asymptomatic infection, reinforcing the importance of wearing masks and physical distancing even if people don’t feel sick.

The study found that between 2.4% and 3% of Virginia adults have COVID-19 antibodies, which signifies that they have had a past or recent infection. The study also noted that presence of COVID-19 antibodies was higher among Hispanic individuals (10.2%), the Northern Virginia region (4.4%), the 40-49 age category (4.4%), and uninsured individuals or those receiving Medicaid health coverage (3.8%). Study participants visited outpatient health care facilities for non-COVID related care and agreed to provide a blood sample for antibody testing. It remains unclear whether the presence of antibodies provides long-term protection from another COVID-19 infection. At this point, antibody testing is only recommended for public health surveillance, such as this study, rather than for individual determination of immunity.

Virtual City Events and Activities

City meetings, events and activities continue to be modified in an effort to encourage residents to stay safe while COVID-19 remains present in the community. The City Calendar contains a complete list of virtual meetings, fitness classes, concerts, and other events that promote physical distancing. Historic Alexandria offers a number of online resources to explore from home, while some museums are now open for limited self-guided tours.

22 New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,671, including 67 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117853.

September 18th Update:

Released: September 17, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

New State Program Pays Past-Due Rent through Virginia Housing

Attention landlords! Through a new state program, Virginia Housing is administering relief for renters experiencing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program (RMRP), eligible landlords can apply on behalf of their tenants to receive financial assistance for past-due rental payments dating back to April 1, 2020. Funding for RMRP is through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST on Nov. 15, 2020. Take action today to see how RMRP may help your tenants make their past-due and current rent payments. Get started with the application process at VirginiaHousing.com/RMRP.

If you have questions, please email Virginia Housing at RMRP@VirginiaHousing.com.

City of Alexandria COVID-19 Emergency Rent Relief Assistance Programs

Through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the City of Alexandria is providing short-term emergency rental assistance to assist City renters experiencing housing insecurity due to COVID-19 related loss of income through the COVID-19 Emergency Rent Relief Assistance Program. Funds in the amount of up to $1,800 in a one-time payment will be provided directly to property owners on behalf of eligible tenants. Download the program flyer in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Amharic!

NEW! City Council has authorized a second payment of up to $1,800 for those households already assisted please contact 703.746.3100 for additional help!

To apply for assistance, please submit a pre-application online or call 703.746.3100 during city business hours. There is no application fee and technical assistance is available throughout the application process.

If you need financial assistance beyond the COVID-19 Emergency Rent Relief Assistance Program, please contact the Department of Community and Human Services at 703.746.5700 to inquire about programs that are available, including the Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program.

Progress Dashboard

Data on the City’s COVID-19 Emergency Rent Relief Assistance Program's performance is now available at this link.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. Approximately 80 residents were tested at St. Martin de Porres Senior Center at an event focused on seniors and caregivers, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Lingering Symptoms and Long-Term Effects of COVID-19

Most people who have been infected with COVID-19 make a complete recovery within a few weeks of infection. In some cases, symptoms can persist for months, and the severity of illness is not an indicator of prolonged symptoms. As COVID-19 is a new disease, the medical community is still learning about long-term effects. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions are more likely to continue to experience symptoms after initial recovery, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain and a cough. However, as researchers continue to study the virus, serious long-term health problems are being discovered in some COVID-19 patients, including possible damage to the heart, brain, lungs and other organs. Blood clots can form as a result of COVID-19, and can result in blocked blood vessels as well as additional concerns for the liver, kidneys and legs.

21 New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,649, including 66 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 12 infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. An estimated 40% of people who become infected never have symptoms, so it is essential to remain vigilant when you are around others. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 17th Update:

Released: 9/16/2020

The Spire is Now Leasing

The Spire, a brand-new apartment community located at 2857 N. Beauregard, is now leasing and will open in Spring 2021. The community features 113 apartment homes in a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

The Spire is conveniently nestled in the Beauregard neighborhood in Alexandria, VA. Rents range from 30% to 60% of the area median income. The apartment homes are complete with upgraded appliances and spacious floorplans. Community amenities include a fitness center, community room, laundry facility, covered parking; and is professionally managed by AHC Management.

To apply and make The Spire your new home, please visit the leasing webpage. For questions, please contact thespire@aptleasing.info.

Getting Ready for Flu Season

As flu season approaches, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published information on the similarities and differences between the flu and COVID-19. The flu and COVID-19 are similar in that they can appear in the form of fever, cough, shortness of breath or fatigue, or show no symptoms. They can be spread for at least one day before symptoms appear and both spread primarily through droplets produced when an infected person sneezes, coughs or talks. However, there are differences between the flu and COVID-19. Flu symptoms can start within one to four days of exposure and can be treated with antiviral drugs; most people recover in less than two weeks. COVID-19 can take five to 14 days to present symptoms; can require longer than two weeks to recover; is more contagious among certain populations and age groups; and does not have an FDA-approved treatment or vaccine. Both the flu and COVID-19 can result in severe complications so it is important to take every precaution to prevent infection.

While there is currently no vaccine for COVID-19, there are multiple FDA-licensed flu vaccines that can protect against up to four strains of influenza virus each year. To provide easy access to the flu vaccine, AHD is hosting two flu clinic events. A drive-through clinic will take place on Saturday, September 26, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at T.C. Williams High School (3330 King St.). A walk-up clinic will be held on Saturday, October 5, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Francis C. Hammond Middle School (4646 Seminary Road). Masks and physical distancing are required. Please do not attend if experiencing even mild symptoms of illness. Review the details about flu clinics before attending.

More Alexandria Back to Business Grants Available

Applications will be accepted for a second round of Alexandria Back to Business (ALX B2B) grants beginning at 8 a.m. on September 30 until noon on October 5. Grant funds will be available to qualifying small businesses and certain nonprofits to offset costs or investments related to reopening and rescaling their business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year, the ALX B2B program disbursed $3.495 million to 303 businesses that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19. The program criteria has been expanded for this second round of grants so additional types of businesses and nonprofit childcare providers will be eligible to apply. Grants will be awarded in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the number of employees working at the business. Applications must be completed and submitted online to the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership.

13 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,628, including 65 fatalities. The fatality listed in the Virginia Department of Health dashboard today has been incorrectly attributed to the City of Alexandria. The error will be corrected on September 17. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 12 infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. An estimated 40% of people who become infected never have symptoms, so it is essential to remain vigilant when you are around others. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 16th Update:

Released: 09/15/2020

Historic Alexandria Admission now FREE for City of Alexandria Residents!

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Historic Alexandria is excited to announce that all city residents receive free admission to City-owned museums. These include:

Alexandria Archaeology Museum
Alexandria Black History Museum
Alexandria’s History Museum at The Lyceum
Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site
Freedom House Museum
Friendship Firehouse Museum
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

Although most are still closed due to the pandemic, Alexandria Archaeology Museum, Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum have reopened with limited hours and capacities. Reservations for time slots to help promote physical distancing are recommended for some. To make your free reservation, visit alexandriava.gov/shop. If you prefer to come in person, let the museum staff know you are a City resident to receive your free admission.

While nothing can fully replace an in-person visit to a museum, there are a number of resources available online to bring Historic Alexandria to you! Learn more about Alexandria through our online hub, which brings together a variety of resources about the City’s history. Plus visit our educational resources page, which is updated weekly, for videos, online content, and virtual programs for all ages.

Learn about Alexandria’s History: https://www.alexandriava.gov/historic/info/default.aspx?id=78100

Educational Resources:

https://www.alexandriava.gov/historic/info/default.aspx?id=28764

Overcoming Mask Anxiety

Wearing a mask when out in public remains one of the most effective methods to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but it can be difficult for those who have experienced trauma or have a medical condition. Anyone who has experienced assault, imprisonment, or trauma; has asthma or lung conditions; or struggles with claustrophobia, can find it physically and psychologically challenging to cover their nose and mouth. The City offers resources and tips for overcoming domestic and sexual assault-related mask anxiety. There are also many resources available for managing stress associated with masks, including breathing exercises and finding the right mask.

SNAP Program Receives Anonymous Donation

Food insecurity has increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and many households continue to receive assistance from food distributions throughout Alexandria. The City received an anonymous $10,000 donation to support the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Double Dollars program. This program allows SNAP customers to receive up to $20 toward eligible food products at participating farmers’ markets. SNAP Double Dollars helps vulnerable families stretch their food budgets and access healthier, locally grown foods, while supporting farmers’ markets. SNAP Double Dollars is accepting donations to help meet food needs in the community, boost the local economy and improve the lives of local families and farmers.

2 New COVID-19 Cases and 3 New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,615. After its periodic review of Vital Records, the Virginia Department of Health has updated Alexandria's fatalities to 65. The three additional deaths all occurred in August. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 12 infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. An estimated 40% of people who become infected never have symptoms, so it is essential to remain vigilant when you are around others. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 15th Update:

Released : September 14, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Updated COVID-19 Guidance for Pets

While the rate of COVID-19 infection in pets remains low, there have been some instances of pets contracting the coronavirus after close contact with infected people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends preventing pets from interacting with anyone who is sick with symptoms of COVID-19 and people outside of their household. Cats should not roam freely outdoors and dogs should remain at least 6 feet from people. Do not attempt to put a mask on your pet. There is no evidence of contracting the coronavirus from fur, hair or skin, so do not wipe or bathe your animal with any type of disinfecting product. While there is no evidence of pets playing a significant role in the transmission of COVID-19 in the U.S., the CDC recommends practicing good hygiene around pets by frequently washing hands, especially after handling their food, supplies or waste, and talking to a veterinarian if a pet becomes ill.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is compiled by the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC). This list is updated with new job opportunities every Monday. WDC also has many free resources, such as Meet the Employer events and workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search. Workshop topics this week include resume building, job search skills, navigating the virtual job fair, one-on-one job coaching, and networking. All workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The Virginia Department of Health reported an increase of 17 cases and no fatalities in Alexandria as of September 12; 8 cases and no fatalities as of September 13; and 11 cases and no fatalities as of September 14; bringing the total to 3,613 cases, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 9% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 14th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Revised Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updated daily cleaning and disinfecting steps for keeping homes safe from COVID-19 and extra precautions when someone is sick.The CDC recommends using disposable or reusable rubber gloves for routine cleaning and disinfection; first cleaning surfaces with soap and water and then using a disinfectant; using cleaning products that have not expired according to manufacturer instructions; washing your hands for at least 20 seconds; and not sharing a bedroom or bathroom with someone who is sick. Frequently touched surfaces, such as counters, light switches, doorknobs and sinks should be cleaned and disinfected daily, especially after being touched by someone who is sick. Additional guidance is available for soft surfaces, electronics, laundry, and ventilation and filtration.

Additional DASH Bus Service to be Restored

Beginning Sunday, September 15, DASH will expand service to approximately 80% of its operational capacity. Modified weekday service will be restored on several routes and limited service will resume on most routes that were suspended in March. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, DASH employees and passengers are required to wear face masks at all times. To increase physical distance between drivers and passengers, boarding is taking place through the rear door and fares have been eliminated on all buses until further notice. Passengers can board through the front door if use of a ramp is needed to board. Enhanced disinfecting procedures include regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces and weekly fogging of buses. Route-specific services, schedule information and new policies are available at dashbus.com/covidmods.

Virtual City Events and Activities

City meetings, events and activities continue to be modified in an effort to encourage residents to stay safe while COVID-19 remains present in the community. The City Calendar contains a complete list of virtual meetings, fitness classes, concerts, and other events that promote physical distancing. RPCA at HOME offers scheduled and on-demand virtual programming, including fitness classes, storytelling, and more. The Alexandria Library also offers virtual book clubs, cooking classes, crafting, English as a second language classes and children’s programming.

19 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,577, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 9% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 11th Update:

Released: 09/10/2020

Evictions Prohibited Through December 31

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a nationwide order that generally prohibits landlords from evicting tenants through December 31. This order follows the Supreme Court of Virginia’s prior ban on evictions, which expired on September 7. The CDC order was issued to prevent the spread of COVID-19 resulting from eviction among those who become homeless and do not have access to adequate sanitation; those in homeless shelters in congregate living situations; and those who live in close quarters with friends or relatives.

Residents are eligible for an extension to any legal eviction action if they have suffered significant loss of income or have accrued extraordinary out-of-pocket medical expenses due to COVID-19; are seeking government assistance; earn less than $99,000 if single or $198,000 if married; and are making best efforts to provide most of their full monthly payments. The moratorium applies to all rental properties except seasonal or temporary rentals, but does not apply to foreclosures on mortgages. Under the federal moratorium, tenants can be evicted for other lease violations; payments due will continue to accrue until payment can be made; and the order does not provide any funding for rent relief. Visit the Office of Housing webpage for City and state rental assistance program information, and read a fact sheet about the CDC order from Legal Services of Northern Virginia.

Suicide Prevention Month Webinar

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia will host a webinar, “Strengthening Resiliency and Preventing Suicide During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Conversation with Experts”, September 29, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. A panel will discuss how individuals can build resiliency and equip themselves with strategies to talk about mental health with friends, families and neighbors. Suicide Prevention Month is a time to share resources and stories, promote suicide prevention awareness, remember those affected by suicide, and direct treatment to those who need it most. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is especially important to be aware of ways to safeguard mental health and the steps to prevent suicide. The event is free but registration is required.

Workforce Affordable Homeownership Unit at Glebe Park Condominiums Now Available

The City of Alexandria Office of Housing announces the availability of a Workforce Affordable Homeownership unit in the Glebe Park Condominiums. This is a two- bedroom, 1 bath home located at 3909 Old Dominion Boulevard, #313, near the Del Ray and the Potomac Yard neighborhoods. The home, built in 2010, is priced at $319,500 and includes an in-unit laundry closet, two assigned parking spaces, and much more. This unit has a monthly condo fee of $164.

This home is available only to income eligible, first-time homebuyers (no ownership interest in the most recent three-year period). Homebuyers must currently live or work in the corporate limits of Alexandria. One person households can have an income up to $105,840, two person households can have an income up to $120,960, three person households can have an income up to $136,080 (3 person), and four person households can have an income up to $151,200.

Homebuyers may be eligible for up to $50,000 in downpayment and closing cost assistance through the Flexible Homeownership Assistance Program (FHAP). Visit the Office of Housing webpage for details on income and assistance amounts.

As required by the City's Workforce Affordable Homeownership program, this home is priced at 10 percent below market value. Homebuyers are required to occupy the home as their primary residence and when they sell the home, they must market the home to an income-eligible buyer.

Click here for the complete listing.

For questions regarding this opportunity and qualify criteria, please contact the listing agent, Mr. Haywood Barney at (703) 535-3610 or Office of Housing at (703) 746-4990 or visit the Office of Housing webpage.

September 10th Update:

Released: September 9, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

September 12 Public Hearing on New Face Covering Ordinance

The Alexandria City Council will hold a virtual public hearing on Saturday, September 12, as part of its regular meeting starting at 9:30 a.m., to consider adoption of a draft ordinance expanding the current state requirement that face coverings be worn in most indoor public places. The proposed ordinance would require face coverings to be worn over the nose and mouth in all indoor public places, and in all outdoor public places where physical distancing cannot be maintained. Limited exceptions would include when a person is age 10 or younger; when wearing a face covering would be harmful to the wearer’s health; or when a person is actively eating or drinking. If adopted, the ordinance would be effective October 1 and until further notice. Failure to comply could result in a $100 fine.

Personal Property Tax Deadline Extended to December 15

The Personal Property Tax payment deadline for Tax Year 2020 has been extended by City Council from October 5 to December 15, to support residents and businesses who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Payment for the car tax and business personal property tax is now due by December 15, and enforcement of 2021 tax registration and new (red) residential parking permits will begin on December 16. Vehicles that are not currently registered for the car tax, or are parked in residential permit zones without a current (blue) parking permit, may still be ticketed.

Second CARES Act Funding Installment Allocated

City Council approved a proposal for the allocation of a $13.9 million second installment in federal Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding. In addition to reimbursement of direct costs the City has incurred through the COVID-19 pandemic, the funding will be be allocated to rental assistance, eviction prevention and housing stability assistance programs; small business grants; expanding and extending food security programs; a fund for community nonprofit organizations; childcare and workforce development initiatives; and Alexandria City Public School’s Virtual Plus+ program. Current guidance states that the CARES Act funding must be expended by December 30.

19 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,546, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 9% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

September 9th Update:

Released: September 8, 2020

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has published an expanded analysis of data on COVID-19 cases in Alexandria, including summaries by ZIP code, race, ethnicity and age.

Updated ZIP Code Data

The City of Alexandria has provided the estimated population for each local ZIP code to compare the number of cases per 1,000 residents. As of September 5, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has reported the following cumulative COVID-19 cases.

Analysis by Cumulative ZIP Code Data

ZIP Code	Estimated Population (in Alexandria portion of ZIP code)	Date of Report	Confirmed Cases per ZIP Code	Total People Tested	Positivity Rate ¹	Tests per 1,000 Alexandria Residents	Confirmed Cases per 1,000 Alexandria residents
22206	530	See note (2) below
22301	15,171	May 7	35	282	12.4%	18.6	2.3
		June 9	68	685	9.9%	45.2	4.5
		July 7	90	1,106	8.1%	72.9	5.9
		Aug 5	98	1,760	5.6%	116.0	6.5
		Sep 5	127	2,618	4.9%	172.6	8.4
22302	20,238	May 7	101	378	26.7	18.7	5.0
		June 9	220	1,364	16.1%	67.4	10.9
		July 7	252	2,636	9.6%	130.3	12.5
		Aug 5	285	3,592	7.9%	177.5	14.1
		Sep 5	356	4,736	7.5%	234.0	17.6
22304	54,003	May 7	296	1,142	25.9%	21.1	5.5
		June 9	611	3,418	17.9%	63.3	11.3
		July 7	707	4,873	14.5%	90.2	13.1
		Aug 5	851	7,098	12.0%	131.4	15.8
		Sep 5	1,074	9,923	10.8%	183.7	19.9
22305	16,095	May 7	317	572	55.4%	35.5	19.7
		June 9	572	1,899	30.1%	118.0	35.5
		July 7	594	2,414	24.6%	150.0	36.9
		Aug 5	656	3.239	20.3%	201.2	40.8
		Sep 5	723	4,236	17.1%	263.2	44.9
22311 ³	16,898	May 7	190 ³	517 ³	36.8% ³	See note (3) below
		June 9	417 ³	1,927 ³	21.6% ³
		July 7	464 ³	2,502 ³	18.5% ³
		Aug 5	547 ³	3,462 ³	15.8% ³
		Sep 5	643 ³	5,059 ³	12.7% ³
22312 ³	6,901	May 7	196 ³	659 ³	29.7% ³
		June 9	529 ³	2,047 ³	25.8% ³
		July 7	616 ³	2,989 ³	20.6% ³
		Aug 5	734 ³	4,245 ³	17.3% ³
		Sep 5	908 ³	6,004³	15.1% ³
22314	47,826	May 7	113	687	16.4%	14.4	2.4
		June 9	185	1,645	11.2%	34.4	3.9
		July 7	216	2,594	8.3%	54.2	4.5
		Aug 5	265	4,142	6.4%	86.6	5.5
		Sep 5	343	6,276	5.5%	131.2	7.2

¹ The positivity rate is the number of confirmed cases divided by the number of tests.

⁴ Data is cumulative from the onset of the pandemic to May 7, and includes cases and tests over a time period greater than one month.

Significant Changes Since August

As expected with ongoing community transmission of COVID-19 in the region, there has been an increase in cumulative positive cases per 1,000 residents. The range of rates in the August 5 analysis was 5.5 to 40.8, and the range in the September analysis is 7.2 to 44.9.

All Alexandria ZIP codes have continued to experience decreases in their cumulative positivity rates since the May analysis. Positivity rates measure what percentage of tests conducted in a community are positive. This measure is influenced both by how many tests are conducted and by how rapidly the virus is spreading. While there is no perfect measure to describe the burden of COVID-19 infections during this pandemic, positivity rate is a widely used metric despite its limitations.

In the August analysis, the cumulative percent positivity ranged from 5.6% to 20.3%. In the September analysis, the range was 4.9% to 17.1%. The ZIP code with the highest cumulative positivity rate since May remains 22305, but this ZIP code has also experienced a nearly 70% reduction in its cumulative positivity rate since the initial analysis. ZIP code 22301 continues to have the lowest cumulative positivity rate since May.

Due to efforts by AHD, the City, and healthcare providers, testing and testing awareness have increased across all ZIP codes in Alexandria since May. Timely testing is just one part of the multipronged pandemic response strategy, and prevention of new infections remains the priority. It is important for all members of the community to practice physical distancing, wear masks, wash hands frequently, and cooperate with case investigations and contact tracing if called by public health staff.

It is also important to look at the data monthly to be aware of the current state of the pandemic. The following analysis is a monthly snapshot of new cases and tests since the prior month’s report. Two ZIP codes (22305 and 22311) have experienced decreases in their monthly positivity rate, while five ZIP codes have experienced increases in their positivity rates as noted in the September analysis.

Analysis by Monthly New Case ZIP Code Data

ZIP Code	Estimated Population (in Alexandria portion of ZIP code)	Date of Report	Confirmed Cases per ZIP Code	Total People Tested	Positivity Rate ¹	Tests per 1,000 Alexandria Residents	Confirmed Cases per 1,000 Alexandria residents
22206	530	See note (2) below
22301	15,171	May 7 ⁴	35	282	12.4%	18.6	2.3
		June 9	33	403	8.2%	26.6	2.2
		July 7	22	421	5.2%	27.8	1.5
		Aug 5	8	654	1.2%	43.1	0.5
		Sep 5	29	858	3.4%	56.6	1.9
22302	20,238	May 7 ⁴	101	378	26.7	18.7	5.0
		June 9	119	986	12.1%	48.7	5.9
		July 7	32	1,272	2.5%	62.9	1.6
		Aug 5	33	956	3.5%	47.2	1.6
		Sep 5	71	1,144	6.2%	56.5	3.5
22304	54,003	May 7 ⁴	296	1,142	25.9%	21.1	5.5
		June 9	315	2,276	13.8%	42.1	5.8
		July 7	96	1,455	6.6%	26.9	1.8
		Aug 5	144	2,225	6.5%	41.2	2.7
		Sep 5	223	2,825	7.9%	52.3	4.1
22305	16,095	May 7 ⁴	317	572	55.4%	35.5	19.7
		June 9	255	1,327	19.2%	82.4	15.8
		July 7	22	515	4.3%	32.0	1.4
		Aug 5	62	825	7.5%	51.3	3.9
		Sep 5	67	997	6.7%	61.9	4.2
22311 ³	16,898	May 7 ⁴	190 ³	517 ³	36.8% ³	See note (3) below
		June 9	227 ³	1,410 ³	16.1% ³
		July 7	47 ³	575 ³	8.2% ³
		Aug 5	83 ³	960 ³	8.6% ³
		Sep 5	96 ³	1,597 ³	6.0% ³
22312 ³	6,901	May 7 ⁴	196 ³	659 ³	29.7% ³
		June 9	333 ³	1,388 ³	24.0% ³
		July 7	87 ³	942 ³	9.2% ³
		Aug 5	118 ³	1,256 ³	9.4% ³
		Sep 5	174 ³	1,759 ³	9.9% ³
22314	47,826	May 7 ⁴	113	687	16.4%	14.4	2.4
		June 9	72	958	7.5%	20.0	1.5
		July 7	31	949	3.3%	19.8	0.6
		Aug 5	49	1,548	3.2%	32.4	1.0
		Sep 5	78	2,134	3.7%	44.6	1.6

¹ The positivity rate is the number of confirmed cases divided by the number of tests.

⁴ Data is cumulative from the onset of the pandemic to May 7, and includes cases and tests over a time period greater than one month.

Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 by Race and Ethnicity

Everyone is at risk for COVID-19, but the virus has disproportionately affected vulnerable populations within our community due to underlying systemic issues. VDH has published data on COVID-19 cases by race and ethnicity since the middle of June. The following table and charts present the same cumulative case data by month.

Analysis by Cumulative Race and Ethnicity Data

Race	Cumulative Cases as of July 5	Cumulative Cases as of August 5	Cumulative Cases as of September 5
Latino	1306 (55.0%)	1482 (51.6%)	1,656 (47.6%)
Black	347 (14.6%)	524 (18.2%)	703 (20.2%)
White	451 (19.0%)	531 (18.5%)	672 (19.3%)
Asian or Pacific Islander	84 (3.5%)	99 (3.4%)	121 (3.5%)
Other Race	40 (1.7%)	48 (1.7%)	76 (2.2%)
Two or more races	4 (0.2%)	6 (0.2%)	21 (0.6%)
Native American	3 (0.1%)	2 (0.1%)	3 (0.1%)
Not Reported	141 (5.9%)	180 (6.3%)	224 (6.4%)
Total	2,376	2,456	3,476

Individuals who identify as Latino or Hispanic make up 16.8% of the population in Alexandria, but as of September 5, this community represents 47.6% of the diagnosed COVID-19 infections. This is a decrease from last month (when this community represented 51.6% of cumulative COVID-19 infections), and follows the trend from the past month.

Analysis by Monthly New Case Race and Ethnicity Data

Race	New cases from July 6 to August 5	New cases from August 6 to September 5
Latino	176 (35.5%)	174 (28.8%)
Black	177 (35.7%)	179 (29.6%)
White	80 (16.1%)	141 (23.3%)
Asian or Pacific Islander	15 (3.0%)	22 (3.6%)
Other Race	8 (1.6%)	28 (4.6%)
Two or more races	2 (0.4%)	15 (2.5%)
Native American	0 (0.0%)	1 (0.2%)
Not Reported	39 (7.9%)	44 (7.3%)
Total	496 5	604

When looking at COVID-19 cases diagnosed August 6 through September 5, 29.6% of cases were among individuals who identify as Black, which is a decrease from 35.7% the prior month. Individuals who identify as Latino comprised 28.8% of cases during the same time period, a decrease from 35.5% last month. The percentage of newly diagnosed people identifying as white increased in this monthly analysis from 16.1% to 23.3%. If cases were proportionate by population, AHD would expect to see that whites have the highest number of cases with almost double the number of cases compared to the Black population.

Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 by Age

When looking at cumulative data, the largest proportion of cases continue to be among those 30 to 39 years old, which is to be expected based on Alexandria’s population.

Analysis of Cases by Cumulative Age Data

Age (years)	May 5	June 5	July 5	August 5	September 5
0-9	41	116	133	162	217
10-19	50	134	170	211	241
20-29	138	311	377	499	634
30-39	247	479	549	663	810
40-49	187	390	439	530	614
50-59	131	264	305	359	445
60-69	87	173	200	232	268
70-79	57	90	101	108	121
80+	44	78	90	97	115
Missing	1	10	12	11	11
Total	983	2,045	2,376	2,872	3,476

Analysis by Monthly New Case Age Data

Those who are 30 to 39 years old represent the largest proportion of new cases from August 6 to September 5. There was a large percent increase seen among the 0 to 9, 70 to 79, and 80+ age groups.

Age (yrs)	New Cases (May 6-June 5)	New Cases (June 6-July 5)	New Cases (July 6-August 5)	New Cases (August 6-September 5)
0-9	75	17	29	55
10-19	84	36	41	30
20-29	173	66	122	135
30-39	232	70	114	147
40-49	203	49	91	84
50-59	133	41	54	86
60-69	86	27	32	36
70-79	33	11	7	13
80+	34	12	7	18
Missing	9	2	0	0
Total	1062	331	4966	604

What the Alexandria Health Department is Doing

AHD is a mission-driven organization whose response to this pandemic is consistent with public health justice principles. AHD continues to develop and update Strategic Action Plans that guide efforts and help prepare for future challenges.

AHD activities in the past month to combat the COVID-19 pandemic include:

Preparing for annual flu vaccination clinics on September 26 and October 3. Plan to attend a clinic, or schedule an appointment to receive the flu vaccine at a physician’s office or pharmacy.
Responding to cases and outbreaks in the community. AHD case investigators and contact tracers work seven days a week to help minimize the spread of COVID-19 infection.
Providing technical support to Neighborhood Health to organize and coordinate weekly targeted testing events for communities who may not have otherwise had access to testing, and for those who have been exposed to a positive COVID-19 case. AHD analyzes data and identifies these communities based on need.
Guiding physicians with information about evaluating patients with COVID-19 symptoms and criteria for returning to work, school and daycare.
Supporting City agencies, faith based organizations, and governmental leadership with recommendations based on current COVID-19 research.
Responding to complaints about businesses not adhering to Executive Orders and supporting businesses in their commitment to the ALX Promise.

AHD continues to perform quality case investigations and contract tracing as community transmission increases, and shares accurate knowledge and advice with community partners, City colleagues, other government officials, and members of the community on the rapidly evolving research and recommendations related to COVID-19.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117631.

September 4th Update:

City of Alexandria Provides COVID-19 Updates; Ongoing Targeted Testing Events; Driver’s License Renewals Extended; Helping Domestic Abuse Victims

For Immediate Release: September 3, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Ongoing Targeted COVID-19 Testing Events

AHD and the City recently conducted a targeted COVID-19 testing event in partnership with Neighborhood Health, Alexandria's federally qualified health center. Nearly 90 residents were tested at William Ramsay Recreation Center, with assistance from AHD's Medical Reserve Corps volunteers. In addition to testing, each participant received a packet of health and support service information. AHD will continue to identify future sites and coordinate targeted testing events. Neighborhood Health is a provider of primary care and COVID-19 testing for residents with or without insurance. Make an appointment online or call 703.535.5568.

Driver’s License Renewals Extended

Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) renewal services have been extended to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in crowded office locations. Driver’s licenses, learner’s permits and identification cards that were due to expire August through October have been extended by 60 days, and credentials that are set to expire in November have been extended to November 30. Vehicle registrations with expiration dates between March and July were extended by 180 days. All renewal fees will remain the same, with no late fees assessed. Residents are encouraged to use online services whenever possible, though mail-in options remain available for many services. All in-person services require a scheduled appointment and face masks be worn at all times.

Helping Victims of Domestic Abuse

For some, staying home during COVID-19 isn’t safe because they may be at risk of abuse. Resilience Alexandria: Inform Support Elevate (RAISE), Alexandria's trauma-informed community network, has created a flyer to help identify signs of abuse and who neighbors should call for assistance. Proof that abuse or neglect is occurring is not required to make the call. Learn more about protective services for children and adults and resources for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.

21 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,436, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 9% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117596.

September 3rd Update:

City of Alexandria Provides COVID-19 Updates; Phase Three of Forward Virginia Continues

For Immediate Release: September 2, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.

Phase Three of Forward Virginia Continues

As the Labor Day holiday approaches, keep in mind that Virginia will remain in Phase Three of the Forward Virginia blueprint until further notice. When considering ways to celebrate the holiday, account for the guidelines under Phase Three. Event spaces should limit social gatherings to 50% of capacity to ensure that at least 6 feet of physical distance can be maintained among participants and staff. Bar seating and congregating areas in restaurants and bars will remain closed, and musicians must be at least 10 feet from patrons and staff. All businesses, including brick and mortar stores, fitness and exercise facilities, personal grooming services, should ensure that customers can maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance, frequently sanitize high-touch surfaces, and require that all employees and customers wear face masks at all times and post ample guideline signage. Swimming pools may be open to 75% capacity as long as 10 or more feet of distance can be maintained between households. Campgrounds may be open with gatherings of no more than 250 people, and hand washing or sanitizing stations must be made available. Entertainment and public amusements must also follow strict guidelines, which are explained in Frequently Asked Questions about Phase Three.

20 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,415, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 9% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117574.

September 2nd Update:

City of Alexandria Provides COVID-19 Updates; Separating COVID-19 Facts from Fiction; Digital Meal Pass Required January 1; Sexual Assault Virtual Support Group; Rent and Mortgage Assistance Materials

For Immediate Release: September 1, 2020

Separating COVID-19 Facts from Fiction

Misinformation can often spread faster than a virus. AHD urges everyone to follow credible sources of information such as the City's COVID-19 data dashboards and news releases, daily updates from the Virginia Department of Health, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The City provides answers to Frequently Asked Questions, about COVID-19 and AHD’s COVID-19 Hotline is available at 703.746.4988 on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Everyone has a role in stopping the spread of rumors and inaccurate information as well as COVID-19.

ACPS Digital Meal Pass Required Starting January 1

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has extended its Free Meals for Kids program through December 31. As a result, Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) will continue providing free meals to Alexandria students without the need for a Digital Meal Pass until January 1. All Alexandria children 2-18 years old will continue to have access to meals via ACPS food distribution and pop-up sites through the fall, regardless of their paying status. Recipients do not need to be registered ACPS students to qualify for food. Families who have already received their ACPS Digital Meal Pass or family PIN should keep them until they are needed. Visit the Virtual PLUS+ Food Access web page for more information, including a complete list of meal distribution locations and times and instructions for how to register for the Digital Meal Pass.

Virtual Support Group for Sexual Assault Survivors

The City’s Sexual Assault Center is hosting an eight-week virtual support group for survivors of sexual assault beginning October 2. During a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk for sexual assaults increases and may happen at higher rates. Support groups offer a safe, non-threatening setting for survivors to talk with others who have experienced the same trauma. Register by September 15.

Financial Assistance for Renters and Homeowners

The Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program supports housing stability during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing financial assistance for rent or mortgage payments for eligible households. This includes financial assistance of rent or mortgage payments that became past due April 1, 2020 or later. Financial assistance is a one-time payment, with an opportunity for renewal based on availability of funding and the household need for additional assistance and continued eligibility. The City developed a flyer that includes “ Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief” terms of eligibility, required documentation and application instructions. Along with a variety of other materials, the flyer is available in the online resource catalog and is easy to download and print.

17 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,395, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 9% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117546.

Alexandria Health Department to Host Free Drive-Through and Walk-Up Flu Shot Clinics on September 26 and October 3

For Immediate Release: September 1, 2020

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) will host two free flu shot clinics this fall with support from the City of Alexandria. A drive-through only clinic will be held on September 26, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at T.C. Williams High School (3330 King St.). This clinic will be open to adults and adolescents age 12 and over, with a maximum of four people per vehicle. A walk-up only clinic will be held on October 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Francis C. Hammond Middle School (4646 Seminary Road). Parking will be available. The walk-up location on October 3 will be open to adults and children ages 6 months and older. Flu shots are available at no cost, and proof of residency or insurance are not required.

AHD encourages everyone to get a flu vaccine, particularly because the flu shares many symptoms with COVID-19. Fewer cases of flu-related illness reduces time lost from school and work, preventable hospitalizations, and strain on Alexandria’s health care providers already busy treating COVID-19 patients. AHD recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone ages 6 months and older. Flu vaccines are also currently available at many local pharmacies and those with health insurance are likely to qualify for a free flu shot.

The flu shot clinics also help protect the community by enabling AHD staff and Medical Reserve Corps volunteers to vaccinate many people in a field setting, which will be necessary when a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available.

Participants must wear a mask over their nose and mouth at all times and maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others, except when necessary for flu shot clinic operations. Please do not attend if you are feeling sick, even with mild symptoms. Everyone is encouraged to bring a pen to complete forms and minimize shared materials.

For more information about the flu and flu vaccine, visit the CDC Frequently Asked Questions page. Visit alexandriava.gov/Health to learn more about free flu shot clinics.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov or 703.746.4914.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact jasmin.johnson@vdh.virginia.gov or call 703.746.4952, Virginia Relay 711.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117523.

Alexandria Health Department to Host Free Drive-Through and Walk-Up Flu Shot Clinics on September 26 and October 3

For Immediate Release: September 1, 2020

For more information about the flu and flu vaccine, visit the CDC Frequently Asked Questions page. Visit alexandriava.gov/Health to learn more about free flu shot clinics.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov or 703.746.4914.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact jasmin.johnson@vdh.virginia.gov or call 703.746.4952, Virginia Relay 711.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117523.

September 1st Update:

City of Alexandria Provides COVID-19 Updates; RPCA Offers Modified School Year Program; Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

For Immediate Release: August 31, 2020

RPCA Offers Modified School Year Program

The City's Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA) will offer a full-day program that supports Alexandria City Public School (ACPS) Virtual PLUS+ learning for elementary school-aged children enrolled in kindergarten through fifth grade. Recreation Leaders will provide supervision of ACPS virtual learning on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and after school recreation from 2:30 to 5 p.m. The program will take place September 14 through December 18 at Mount Vernon (2701 Commonwealth Ave.) and Patrick Henry Recreation Centers (4653 Taney Ave.). To ensure the safety of participants and to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, each program will follow all federal, state and local guidelines and have limited capacity. Alexandria residents interested in participating are required to verify eligibility by completing an online Pre-Registration Eligibility form, available in both English and Spanish. To request a paper form by mail or by in-person appointment, call the Registration and Reservation office at 703.746.5414. Eligibility forms must be submitted by September 4. Visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation for more information about the modified full day program.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is compiled by the Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC). This list is updated with new job opportunities every Monday. WDC also has many free resources, such as the 50+ Employment Corner, and workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search. Workshop topics this week include resume building, interviewing skills, job search skills, one-on-one job coaching and networking. All workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The Virginia Department of Health reported an increase of 6 cases and no fatalities in Alexandria as of August 29; 11 cases and no fatalities as of August 30; and 9 cases and no fatalities as of August 31; bringing the total to 3,378 cases, including 62 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 10% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

# # #

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/117514.

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