Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED) and Area 2 Farms have announced a new partnership to bring a sustainable urban farm to Fairfax City. The Northern Virginia-based startup, which is reimagining the future of agriculture through hyper-local, soil-based farming, will open its newest location at 9571 Fairfax Boulevard by the end of the year.
Made possible through a zoning amendment approved by City Council in 2024 and a support grant from FCED, this project includes a 10-year lease for the property, $25,000 in Fairfax City Economic Development Authority (EDA) funding, and a commitment to transform the space through adaptive reuse. As part of the agreement, Area 2 Farms will invest in exterior improvements, including a public-facing mural that will enhance the visual identity and vibrancy of the Fairfax Circle intersection. The city's support builds on a foundation of strategic investment in sustainable agriculture and food system innovation, as exemplified by the EDA's $7,000 matching contribution to secure an AFID Planning Grant in 2024. This initiative not only revitalizes a long-vacant commercial site but also advances the city's goals to promote sustainability, pedestrian activity, and innovative investment in a key commercial activity center.
© Area 2 Farms
"It's ironic that we had to amend our zoning code to allow this type of agricultural use in a city and a region that was once rolling fields of farmland. It demonstrates the need for local government to regularly reimagine land use in ways that support our priorities today and into the future. Our community cares about issues of environmental sustainability and educating consumers about the sources of the foods they eat. Area 2 Farms brings us a project that aligns with our core values on many levels and is a welcome addition to our city," said Catherine S. Read, Fairfax City Mayor.
"We are incredibly excited to bring Area 2 Farms to Fairfax and to partner with a city that shares our vision. This project perfectly embodies our mission to 'move the farm, not the food,' turning an underutilized space into a thriving hub for fresh, healthy produce and community engagement. The leadership shown by FCED officials in facilitating this project ushers in a new chapter of abundance for the local community," said Oren Falkowitz, Founder and CEO of Area 2 Farms.
For more information:
Area 2 Farms
[email protected]
area2farms.com
