Residents of Alexandria are encouraged to participate in the City Academy, a program designed to foster community engagement and education about local governance and services. Participants have praised the program for its ability to build lasting relationships and deepen understanding of the city’s operations.

During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the importance of Alexandria's waterways, which are vital for both quality of life and tourism. However, concerns were raised regarding water safety due to pollution from stormwater runoff, pet waste, and an outdated combined sewer system that dates back to the 1800s. Currently, 95% of the city utilizes separate pipes for stormwater and sewage, but the remaining 5% still relies on the original system, leading to overflow issues during heavy rains.

City officials reported that Alexandria's combined sewer system accounts for approximately 2% of the bacteria found in local waterways, a figure they aim to reduce. To address these challenges, the city has invested over $100 million in modernizing its treatment facilities and has mandated sewer separation in development projects in Old Town.

A comprehensive remediation plan is underway, which includes the construction of underground storage tanks and tunnels to manage excess stormwater and sewage during rain events. This strategy, which is being adopted by numerous cities facing similar issues, is expected to cost around $400 million over the next decade, funded by increased sewer fees for residents and businesses.

City leaders emphasized their commitment to community involvement throughout this extensive project, which will require significant construction efforts and may cause temporary disruptions. They aim to ensure that Alexandria's waterways remain clean and safe for future generations.