Aspasia Xypolia has been named the Director of the Office of Housing in Alexandria, following a national search, according to Citywide News. Xypolia, who has been serving as Acting Director since May 2026, will continue to lead the city’s housing strategy, policy, and investment efforts to expand affordability and advance the goals of Housing 2040. Her appointment was announced by City Manager James F. Parajon, who praised her extensive experience in affordable housing development and preservation.
Before joining Alexandria, Xypolia was the Director of Prince George’s County’s Department of Housing and Community Development, where she led initiatives that created or preserved over 6,340 housing units in under five years. Her efforts included deploying more than $122 million in emergency rental assistance and reviving a dormant Right of First Refusal law, preserving over 2,260 units of naturally occurring affordable housing. Xypolia holds a Master’s in City Planning from MIT and a Master’s in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University, and she serves on Virginia Housing’s Northern Virginia Advisory Council.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
The City of Alexandria invites residents to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15. According to Citywide News, events include a Hispanic Heritage Celebration Dance on October 9 at the Leonard "Chick" Armstrong Rec Center, and a Hispanic Heritage Fiesta at Beatley Library on October 10. These events will feature music, dance, art, cuisine, and cultural demonstrations.
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, coinciding with the independence days of several Latin American countries. The celebration, which started as a week-long event in 1968, was extended to a month in 1988. Alexandria is home to a vibrant Hispanic and Latino community, with many residents tracing their roots to countries across the Americas.
Storm Aftermath: Power Outages and Traffic Signal Disruptions
Severe thunderstorms have caused power outages and traffic signal disruptions across Alexandria, as reported by Citywide News. Key intersections affected include Seminary Road at Beauregard Street and King Street at S. Taylor Street. City crews are working to address these disruptions, and drivers are advised to treat non-functioning signals as four-way stops.
Additionally, the Del Pepper Community Resource Center experienced limited services due to the storm-related power outages. Power has been restored, and the center is operational, offering walk-in support for emergency mental health services, benefits services, and more.
City Hall Renovation Progress
The City Hall renovation project is progressing, with significant developments over the past six months. The project has involved environmental abatement and interior demolition preparation. The next phase, beginning in September, will see the deconstruction of the 1960s infill portion of City Hall. This work is part of a broader effort to modernize the building while preserving its historic elements.
Residents may notice increased truck traffic and noise during construction hours. The City and Grunley Construction are committed to minimizing disruptions to the community.
Parking Permits and Other Notices
Residents expecting their 2026 parking permits should receive them by September 9, as noted by Citywide News. Those who have not received their permits by this date are advised to contact the Finance Department for assistance.