Perhaps you’ve noticed the mature trees that give Arlington Forest its name. This popular community is located in west-central Arlington. Arlington Forest is defined by its treed lots and neighboring parkland.
Arlington Forest is bounded by Carlin Springs Road. It is also bordered by George Mason Drive, North Henderson Road, and North 2nd Street. Pershing Drive, Route 50 and Glencarlyn Park also define its borders. The W&OD trail marks another boundary.
Most of the 800 homes here were built from 1939 to 1949. One builder constructed them. The original all-brick Colonials line the planned, curving roads. This gives Arlington Forest an innate homogeneousness.
Since then, many residents have expanded their homes. They created elaborate additions. The character of Arlington Forest has been preserved. It has been maintained to this day.
The Arlington Forest Civic Association has a copy of the original builder brochure. It advertises standard six-room houses. These FHA-approved homes in Arlington Forest cost as little as $5990. Pay attention to the gleaming black and white tiled walls. The brochure mentions a tile floor to match. The signature black and white tiled floor still remains in many homes.
Residents enjoy the best of both worlds in Arlington Forest. They are a walkable mile from the Ballston Metro. They also enjoy tranquility and outdoor opportunities. This is due to their proximity to Lubber Run Park. Lubber Run Park is Arlington’s first public park.
It’s home to the Lubber Run Community Center. The center was built on the site of the former Henderson House. Henderson House was Arlington Forest’s first residence. The park also features the Lubber Run Amphitheater. It has been a county fixture since the late 60s.
The neighborhood streets closest to Arlington Blvd have entrances to the W&OD bike and walking trail. The trail follows old railway routes from Shirlington all the way to Purcellville. Residents can easily walk to Bluemont Park via the trail. They can also reach Bon Air Rose Garden. A covered picnic pavilion, multiple playgrounds, and the Long Branch Nature Center are also nearby. There’s also a small neighborhood park on Edison Street. It is located in the heart of Arlington Forest.
Arlington Forest also features its own small neighborhood shopping center. It was constructed in 1941. Originally, it was home to a deli and an A&P. There was also a hardware store, beauty shop, and dry cleaner. An ESSO gas station was once located here. Today, it’s still home to a dry cleaner and beauty shop. A nail salon, Brooke Rental Center, Brick’s Pizza, Crystal Thai, and an Outback Steakhouse are also present.
The active citizens association puts out a regular newsletter. The community hosts annual yard sales and stream clean-ups. Block parties are also a regular occurrence. A baby-sitting co-op has been in place since 1961.
Arlington Forest has been designated a National Historic District since 2005. Arlington Forest is a neighborhood with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Its location near parks, trails, and shopping makes it a desirable place to live.