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County takes a universal step
The Fairfax County Planning Commission passed a measure last week that takes the county a step closer toward addressing the needs of people with disabilities as well as a growing senior population.
Just as it is working to incorporate green practices into new developments by offering tax incentives, the county board hopes to soon adopt a measure that would give builders, developers and homeowners incentives to build their properties under Universal Design standards.
Universal Design is a type of development that provides a level of accessibility to people with disabilities. Features include curb-less showers, low-hanging cabinets and light switches, ramps instead of steps and elevators in multi-level homes.
The Planning Commission's measure underscored the need for the county to encourage developers to build under the standards, including amendments to the policy plan.
"Universal design is a way to permit residents of Fairfax County the opportunity to age in their homes without having to make significant and costly changes," said Lee District Planning Commissioner Rodney Lusk.
For some, however, the county's pace has been too slow.
"It is only a first step and falls short of what is required for ... housing that is already needed for over 87,000 residents in Fairfax County," said John Tillman, a developer who is building a series of Universal Design town homes in Burke.
According to 2006 Census figures, 92,600 county residents are over the age of 65. In 2000, there were 76,800 residents in that age group.
It's not necessary for a home prepared for Universal Design to have high-end equipment such as an elevator – the space for one just needs to be available, said Braddock District Supervisor Sharon Bulova (D).
"The development community and county government need to accommodate people who need assistance with their daily lives," Bulova said.
The board is expected to act on a measure offering tax incentives for Universal Design modifications in the next year, after the Department of Planning and Zoning presents its study to the board.
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