Reston values are famously described by Bob Simon in his original seven principles.

However, living up to these values has been a challenge.  The great tradition of Restonians participating in community activities has fallen away as Reston has grown.  Older community groups are not as connected as they could be to the thousands of newer residents in our community.

The Neighborhood Study Group is asking community activists, affordable housing advocates, environmental leaders, and leaders of local organizations for advice on what changes make sense for our neighborhood and the larger community, particularly the underserved areas of South Reston.  We are asking if our area has a role to play in:

• Ensuring that diversity and inclusion are reasserted as important values that inform planning.

• Assisting local organizations in their efforts to improve housing diversity and costs so that the people who serve our community (teachers, first responders, service workers) can also live here.

• Creating spaces and amenities that bring people – old and new community members – together to improve the quality of life.

• Creating large-scale open space that can be used by everyone and that restores the natural environment.

• Reconnecting The Reston National Neighborhood with open space and trails that are safe and walkable.

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