COA Contact Us - City of Alexandria

Applicant's request far exceeds the
hours of operation for any and all similar types of establishments in the
area. The real estate directly west of Applicant is residential and other
residential real estate is proximate. An elementary school is nearby. I
believe that having hours that extend to 2:OOam 7 days a week will
unreasonably disturb the sleep of residential neighbors during the
work-week and during school nights.
I am interested in the Alexandria
police department's input regarding the safety issues and increased risk to
persons and property that a dining establishment in this neighborhood with
these late hours is expected to create. I believe there is a reasonable
Comments: expectation for crime to increase with these requested hours. According to
a study by USA Today, 26% of all crime happens between 12am and 6am. Not
only would extended hours likely impact the physical security and property
integrity of nearby neighbors, it would increase Police Department costs
because of the additional security required during early morning hours and
City clean up costs due to litter.
I also question who will be
frequenting a restaurant that is open until 2:OOam. Although it would be
wonderful if these patrons were law enforcement personnel or shift workers,
they are more likely to be individuals who have been drinking and are
looking for a location in which to become sober. Too, the opening of Monroe
Avenue may invite a transient crowd off Route 1 who is not aware of the
residential component of the neighborhood. I am concerned these early
morning patrons will threaten the safety of persons and motorists in the
area and personal property (side swiping cars) of residents. Again, the
Alexandria police department's input would be valuable on this issue.
I
want to reiterate that I am an enthusiastic supporter of businesses in Del
Ray and will patronize these restaurants. I respect the owners' business
expertise and their need to have a business plan that will ensure their