#United States #Sustainable Farming #Fairfax City #Area 2 Farms

Area 2 Farms Expands Its Urban Farming Vision to Fairfax City

In a transformative step toward sustainable agriculture, Area 2 Farms has partnered with Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED) to launch its innovative farming model at a new location in Fairfax City, Virginia. This project is set to breathe new life into a long-vacant commercial site, turning it into a flourishing urban farm focused on local production and community engagement.

A New Chapter for Urban Agriculture

The new farm, strategically located at 9571 Fairfax Boulevard, is expected to open by the end of this year. This development comes after a favorable zoning amendment from the City Council in 2024, allowing for urban agricultural uses in the area. The initiative is supported by a $25,000 funding grant from FCED, along with a commitment to undertake exterior enhancements including a public art mural that will elevate the local visual landscape.

Fairfax City Mayor Catherine Read highlighted the irony of needing to amend zoning codes for a practice that once flourished in the region. She expressed, "It demonstrates the need for local governments to regularly reimagine land use in ways that support our priorities today and into the future." The mayor further emphasized the alignment of Area 2 Farms' mission with community values focusing on sustainability and food source education.

Rethinking Food Supply Chains

Area 2 Farms, known for its commitment to hyper-local, soil-based farming, aims to reshape the traditional food supply chain. By relocating farms directly into urban centers, the initiative addresses major concerns such as food supply fragility and the need for transparency in food production. Oren Falkowitz, the founder and CEO, articulated that the project embodies their philosophy to "move the farm, not the food," ensuring that fresh produce is accessible to community members shortly after harvesting.

The regional team successfully operated a pilot farm in Arlington, VA, where they delivered over 20,000 harvests and engaged extensively with the local community, serving more than 1,000 customers and hosting 1,500+ student visits. The new location aims to build on this foundation, with plans to deepen community engagement through partnerships with Fairfax’s public schools and local organizations.

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Program

One of the standout features of the new Fairfax City farm will be its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. This initiative allows residents to enjoy fresh seasonal produce directly from the farm, including greens, microgreens, root vegetables, and herbs, harvested at their peak. Additionally, the farm will debut Area 2 Farms' inaugural farm stand, offering residents an opportunity to purchase fresh items and specialty products that complement the farm’s offerings.

Christopher Bruno, CEO of FCED, praised the project for its potential to transform the local landscape. He remarked, "This project is a testament to what's possible when vision meets partnership. We didn’t just fill a vacant lot; we challenged everyone to think differently about how space, sustainability, and community intersect."

Conclusion

As Area 2 Farms prepares to break ground in Fairfax City, this endeavor signifies more than just the establishment of a new local farm. It symbolizes a collective commitment to innovation, health, and community vitality. By fostering a closer relationship between local food producers and residents, Area 2 Farms not only enriches the local food system but also promotes an educational approach to health and sustainability practices.

Residents can learn more about the farm and join the CSA program by visiting area2farms.com/fairfax-farm. Through this initiative, Fairfax City takes significant strides in creating a sustainable urban environment while reinforcing local connections and community well-being.