Water Damage Restoration in Alexandria, VA

A new survey reveals the cities where residents are least tolerant of a neighbor's political yard sign. See which 6 VA towns made the list.

Megan VerHelst, Patch Staff

|Updated Sat, Nov 2, 2024 at 10:02 am ET

VIRGINIA — Residents of six Virginia cities are among those most irritated by their neighbors' political yard signs, according to a new survey.

To find out where campaign and political signs are causing the most contention, writers at the pop culture website Geek Nexus surveyed 3,000 homeowners and ranked 175 cities based on the level of irritation sparked by these inevitable yard signs.

The survey found that Virginia residents are among the least tolerant of their neighbors’ political signs, with six cities emerging among the most irritated by them.

According to the survey, residents of Virginia Beach were the most annoyed when their neighbors erected political signs in their yards. Virginia Beach ranked 17th out of 175 cities.

Other Virginia cities where political signs draw ire from neighbors include Alexandria (ranked 22nd), Chesapeake (84th), Hampton (144th), Norfolk (171st) and Richmond (172nd).

Find out what's happening in Old Town Alexandriawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“Yard signs are a way for people to express their beliefs, but they can also create tension, especially during an election,” said Jake Valentine of Geek Nexus. “What we’re seeing is that something as small as a lawn sign can have a big impact on neighborhood dynamics. It speaks to the importance of balancing personal expression with community harmony, especially in a time as charged as election season.”

Residents of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, emerged as the most annoyed by political yard signs, followed by Little Rock, Arkansas, and Pasadena, California.

Here's a look at the top 10 U.S. cities where residents are most irritated by political yard signs, according to the survey:

Beyond the rankings, Geek Nexus’s survey revealed some insights into the attitudes of Virginia residents toward political yard signs. For example, 60 percent of respondents said they knew their neighbors’ political leanings, while 40 percent weren’t sure or preferred not to know.

As for the actual influence of yard signs, their opinion was split: 46 percent of people think these signs can sway voters, while 54 percent believe they’re just lawn ornaments with no real effect on election results.

Meanwhile, most respondents agreed there is a time and place for political yard signs, with 76 percent supporting the idea that signs should only be displayed during specific times of the year, like the lead-up to an election. And while only a small group (24 percent) admitted they might remove a neighbor’s sign if they disagreed with it, the majority (76 percent) were clear that they would not cross that line.

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ALEXANDRIA, VA — A major piece in the Oakville redevelopment between Del Ray and Potomac Yard is open.

Inova Health System held a ribbon cutting and grand opening Thursday for the new Inova Health Center – Oakville. Located at 400 Fannon Street, Alexandria, VA, the facility has a full-service emergency department for all ages, outpatient surgery and advanced diagnostic imaging. Primary and specialty care services such as cardiology, gastroenterology and general surgery are also available. The new facility was designed by Ballinger and Ennead Architects.

"The Oakville Health Center will allow us to serve our community with more convenience and accessibility, offering both emergency care and outpatient services under one roof," said Dr. J. Stephen Jones, president and CEO of Inova Health System. "We are excited to officially open our doors and welcome patients to this state-of-the-art facility."

The new facility responds to the growing population of Alexandria and neighboring Arlington. Development in Potomac Yard has grown over the years and will be home to the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus under construction. Inova is also planning to relocate its Inova Alexandria Hospital from Seminary Road to the mixed-use redevelopment of Landmark Mall. The Inova Alexandria Hospital, plus a new Inova Franconia-Springfield hospital south of the city, are expected to finish construction in 2028.

"The opening of this facility marks a new chapter for healthcare in Alexandria and its surrounding communities," said Dr. Rina Bansal, president of Inova Alexandria Hospital. "With the Oakville Health Center, we are continuing to bring high-quality care to families in a setting designed for comfort and healing. This facility will help us provide comprehensive care and support to even more people in our community."

The Oakville health complex is part of Stonebridge's redevelopment of Oakville Triangle. The Oakville mixed-use development includes apartments and townhouses that have started to open. Retail is planned for the development, including the Founding Farmers restaurant expected to open in February 2025. Other businesses slated to open are Dok Khao Thai Eatery, YogaSix and N&J Nails.

ALEXANDRIA, VA — An extension of the pedestrian zone on lower King Street will head to Alexandria City Council for action ahead of a proposed holiday launch.

On Monday, the Alexandria Traffic and Parking Board a recommendation to temporarily close the 200 block of King Street to vehicular traffic. The proposal would make the 200 block a pedestrian zone in two phases — during the holiday season from Nov. 22, 2024 to Jan. 6, 2024 and spring through early January 2026. In between the first and second phase, the block would reopen for city staff to make changes and address any issues.

The temporary closure would remove 17 parking spaces during the pilot program and modify a traffic signal at Fairfax and King Streets. The parking spaces include 16 metered spaces and one 15-minute space at the Alexandria Visitor Center.

City Council could take action on a permanent closure in fall 2025 before the second phase expires. The Traffic and Parking Board would have to review and recommend the permanent closure to the City Council. Community feedback would be collected before a permanent closure decision.

Mayor Justin Wilson and Councilmember John Taylor Chapman had presented the proposal in September to extend the pedestrian zone to the 200 block of King Street. The 200 block of King Street is a two-way street with businesses and on-street parking. The adjacent 100 block became a pedestrian zone in May 2020, and the change was made permanent in October 2021. The unit block and the Strand were added as a pedestrian zone over Memorial Day weekend 2022, and the permanent pedestrian zone was approved in November 2022. The 200 block had been temporarily closed during the busy Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend.

"There remains pent-up demand for properly programmed public spaces in this area and an extension of the King Street Pedestrian Zone into the 200-block of King has been suggested by residents and business owners as a way to enhance the appeal of our Main Street," a memo from Wilson and Chapman read.

The city officials' memo acknowledged the 200 block closure would prompt challenges also experienced in the adjacent block, such as public safety responses, deliveries and access for people with disabilities.

According to the city, the 200 block would need a 22-foot wide clear zone for emergency vehicle access, similar to the other blocks. No structures can be located within this zone, including moveable furniture, but pedestrians are permitted. Additionally, a five-foot wide path is required on both sidewalks to provide egress and space for emergency personnel to access buildings in an emergency. This also has the benefit of providing more visibility for retail storefronts.

Businesses can use parklet or outdoor dining space under the city's permitting program. City staff are recommending to waive a requirement for businesses to have a platform for outdoor parklet space. For areas on the block not used by businesses, city staff will work with Old Town Business to seek pop-up activities and additional seating.

City Council will review the 200 block temporary closure at its November meeting. City Council's meeting agendas have not yet been released. Before the meeting, the Alexandria Planning Commission will review the proposal to determine if it complies with the city's master plan.

ALEXANDRIA, VA — A second rabies alert within a week was issued by the Alexandria Health Department. Both incidents involved a raccoon with rabies having contact with a dog.

The latest alert was due to a raccoon interaction with a dog in the Sanger Avenue along a Dora Kelley Nature Park trail Sunday. The raccoon tested positive for rabies and is now dead. The impacted dog is in confinement.

The other incident was reported last Friday due a raccoon having contact with a dog in a backyard in the Taylor Run neighborhood. The raccoon was tested and was found to be positive for rabies. The raccoon is now dead, and the impacted dog is in confinement.

The health department says there is an increased risk of rabies in the area. Anyone who had physical contact with a raccoon or with concerns of rabies exposure can contact the Alexandria Health Department at 703-746-4910 during its business hours. If residents see animals with signs of rabies, call Alexandria Animal Control at 703-746-4444.

Rabies, which can be fatal to humans if not treated, spreads to people and pets through the bite and scratches of an infected animal. Rabies cases in people are rare due to vaccination programs, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says rabies can cause severe brain disease and death without medical care before symptoms start. Immediate medical attention after exposure is almost 100 percent effective in preventing rabies when given properly. The CDC also recommends immediately washing wounds with soap and water for 15 minutes.

Find out what's happening in Old Town Alexandriawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In animals, symptoms of rabies include unexpected aggression from an animal that would normally avoid people, extreme drooling or foaming at the mouth, and walking as if drunk or unusual sluggishness or stupor. When pets have been exposed to rabies, owners should keep them confined and observed for 10 days, according to the CDC.

The CDC recommends euthanizing an animal showing signs of rabies. Signs of rabies in animals may include abnormal behavior, lethargy, fever, vomiting and anorexia, ataxia, weakness, self-mutilation, rapid progression to cerebral and cranial nerve dysfunction, paralysis, seizures, swallowing difficulties, excessive salivation and aggression.

The best way to prevent rabies infection in pets is to keep them vaccinated against rabies, according to the health department. In Alexandria, all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies according to law.

More guidance about responding to rabies exposure is available at www.alexandriava.gov/Rabies.

These historic streets are teeming with unique finds.

Southerners tend to enjoy the thrill of the hunt, especially when that means having an eclectic adventure bordering on the sophisticated. It's a bonus if that all can be accomplished while saving money. Such is the case with antiquing throughout the South, but it's especially true when you venture within the borders of Virginia. With its rolling hills, quaint urban streets, and historic towns, it's not surprising that the Old Dominion offers some of the best antiquing.

When you need a getaway—whether for a weekend or the day—wandering through nostalgia-evoking antique shops as you peruse lovely collections can be just the respite the mind needs. Or perhaps you're searching for the perfect tchotchke to add to your bookshelf or are craving a statement piece for your wardrobe. No matter your reason for heading out for vintage wares, Virginia is the place to go.

Here are the 9 best Virginia towns for antiquing that are ripe for your next Saturday drive.

01 of 09

Alexandria

Located just 20 minutes below Washington, D.C., Alexandria has all the benefits of urban life combined with quaint neighborhoods filled with lovely brownstones and walkable streets. It also happens to be a haven for antique shoppers, especially if there's a specific need on the list.

To add vintage barware to your collection, head to The Hour, which has unique glassware, decanters, and shakers. Whether you need to adorn yourself or your dining room, The Antique Guild is ready with its stock of jewelry and silver tableware. For a healthy selection of quality European goods, stop into Van Bommel Antiek Haus or just roam the Old Town area, where you can stumble upon boutiques brimming with fine antiques.

See Our Guide

02 of 09

Altavista

As the town that originated the 100 Mile Yard Sale, it's no wonder that Altavista has excellent antique shopping. Although there is no concentration of shops in one area, Route 29 boasts several worthy vintage stores in Altavista and the neighboring town of Hurt.

Virginia Found Goods is a warehouse fully stocked with everything from architectural salvage to rustic furniture pieces. Across the street is White Barn Vintage, a themed, multi-vendor monthly market with a high turnover of stock. Twice a year, the lawn at the barn hosts dozens of vendors at its Sweet Violet's Vintage Market. Also, visit The Vintage Rose, a lovely shop in a multi-level historic home fronting Highway 29.

03 of 09

Bristol

If you're familiar with Bristol, you may already know that State Street is the dividing line between Virginia and Tennessee. However, it also happens to be dotted with antique stores.

Shop for color-coordinated books or your next blue and white jardiniere at Willow Creek Antiques & Collectables. For a sophisticated furniture, transferware, and vintage art collection, stop by The Boxwood or head to Grand Antiques to shop its 15,000 square feet of vendor spaces. There are also several restaurants and coffeehouses on and near State Street, and Virginians will forgive you if you happen to wander across the street to explore their neighboring state.

See Our Guide

04 of 09

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a pleasure to visit due to its tasty food scene and a plethora of beautiful shops, including a vast selection of antique stores. For genuinely unique finds, head to Circa, where you'll find everything from interesting furnishings to one-of-a-kind art pieces. Heyday Antiques & Vintage is another fun stop, with 5000 square feet of goods concentrating on Art Deco and MCM finds.

To add cultural flair to your home, stop by Oyster House Antiques, which specializes in traditional antique furniture that the owner hand-selects during trips to China. And if you find yourself near the Downtown Mall area, stop by Low, where you just might spy something vintage to add to your closet.

See Our Guide

05 of 09

Fredericksburg

The city of Fredericksburg has made antiquing relatively easy on its visitors—all you have to do is walk down Caroline Street, and there's a day full of shopping at your fingertips. Don't worry, as there are plenty of restaurants to keep you satiated so you won't have to shop on an empty stomach.

After a quick bite, head to The Fredericksburg Antique Mall & Clock Shop, whose name says everything. Then go further down the street and browse through the antique novels at Becks Antiques & Books, add to your vinyl collection at Blue Shark Antiques, and pick up an upcycled gift from the Shoppes at Caroline Square.

06 of 09

Middleburg

Not only is Middleburg a historic destination, but it also has a lovely collection of vintage shops right in the heart of downtown. For example, Middleburg Antique Emporium is an eclectic, multi-dealer store that caters to diverse tastes. For a more focused experience, Hastening Antiques and Design features 18th and 19th-century French, Italian, and English furniture.

Antiques on Washington Street offers a refined selection of Staffordshire dogs, sporting antiques, and Scottish furniture to accent your home. Although it's not a true antique store, you never know what you'll find for a bargain at Olde Millstones Thrift Shop to take home.

See Our Guide

07 of 09

Richmond

Since Richmond is the capital city, it's no surprise it ranks high on the list of places to go for antiquing in Virginia. As a staple for more than 30 years, West End Antique Mall boasts 250 vendor booths, perfect for finding a quality rug or statement mirror to complete your decor. To outfit your garden, head to Sheppard Street Antiques in Scott's Addition or stop by Capitol Vintage for retro finds.

Those who love fashion should prioritize heading to the famous shopping district of Cary Street, where shops like Bygones Vintage and the nearby Blue Bones Vintage are within walking distance of boutiques and cafes. Also make plans to visit the nearby area of Ashland, where you'll find even more shops.

See Our Guide

08 of 09

Roanoke

If you love a good DIY project, you may have caught the show Salvage Dawgs, which stars the ever-creative duo behind Black Dog Salvage in Roanoke. Their warehouse-style store focuses on architectural salvage, yet there is also a large section full of well-stocked vendor booths. Also of note is Roanoke Antique Mall, an all-on-one-floor spot with ample parking outside and an interesting selection of furniture, collectibles, and vintage items inside.

Those who love thrifting will also find the city a mecca for preloved vintage goods. The next town over, Salem, has a fabulous selection of antiques, with longstanding stores like Charlotte's Web Antique Mall waiting to welcome visitors.

See Our Guide

09 of 09

Verona

Avid antiquers from all over the country flock to Verona, hauling trailers as they try to add to their collections and restock their own shops. Why? Well, the largest antique store, Factory Antique Mall, is in the town. Although there are other shops in the area—Verona Antiques is a lovely multi-vendor mall—you can easily plan a whole day wandering the Factory's 147,000 square feet of goods. There's even a cafe inside if you get hungry (you will.)

Planning your trip during the bi-annual Fishersville Antique Expo is also wise. Then head over to Stuarts Draft Antique Mall, a 30+ dealer store with a delightfully curated selection of vintage things, or to downtown Staunton, where shops like Staunton Antiques Center await.