The Arlington County Board is considering a proposed redevelopment plan for the East Falls Church area. Among other things, the plan calls for the replacement of a park-and-ride lot with a six- to nine-story building, a central plaza, retail operations, and about 100 short-term parking spaces for shoppers.

Officials say the changes are necessary to prepare for the arrival of the Silver Line to Dulles International Airport. Opponents counter that the proposed changes will alter the character of the neighborhood. "Those of us who bought in this part of the county did so because it wasn't urbanized. We wanted to have single-family homes," said Nancy Weinberg, a 32-year resident.

Development can have a positive impact for homeowners. It broadens the area taxbase and provides amenities that attract future home buyers, often spurring a rise in home prices.

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