Amazon, the renowned American multinational technology giant, has reportedly received approval for the first phase of its HQ2 headquarters being built in Northern Virginia.

Officials from the Arlington County Board collectively voted in favor of the retail giant’s plan to convert 6.2 acres of Metropolitan Park located in Pentagon City into a 2.1 million square foot walkable urban campus.

The two 22 story towers would include an office, retail and residential and new and improved open spaces for public at 15th Street South and South Eads Street.

Christian Dorsey, Arlington County Board Chair, reportedly stated that the project would bring them closer to accomplishing the vision held by the community of Pentagon City, an urban neighborhood with a balance of residential, office and retail development, more open public spaces, and much better access for cyclists and pedestrians.

Some of the transit improvements include an underground parking lot with approximately 2,000 spaces, two additional roads, reconstructed bus stops, more than 600 bicycle spaces and protected lanes for bikes.

Dorsey, further added the e-commerce company is committed to plan, build and to maintain the open spaces and public parks.

Bill Ross, Parks & Recreation Commission Chair, praised Amazon for investing extra into green spaces. Ross further added it to be a good example and signal for future projects.

Amazon has also committed to contribute $20 million for the development of affordable housing in Arlington as part of the agreement.

According to data from Zillow the price list for homes increased noticeably in Arlington after National Landing was chosen as the final site for HQ2 last year.

Amazon will also contribute a minimum of $225,000 towards the city’s public art fund.

Additionally, the Amazon board also accepted a federal grant of $200,000 to provide job training services to 50 residents of Alexandria and Arlington who would be adversely affected by HQ2 development. The U.S Department of Labor will fund the program providing skills training, English instruction, access to GED and other occupational certification programs.
 

Source credit: https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/amazon-gets-green-light-for-extraordinary-hq2-development-in-pentagon-city/2187212/