James Bland Homes Community Overview

James Bland Homes was an Alexandria public housing community constructed in phases during the 1950s. The original development has since been replaced by Old Town Commons, which was completed through a multiphase redevelopment between 2008 and 2014.

Although “James Bland Homes” may still appear as a legal subdivision or MLS record for certain properties, buyers will generally encounter the current community marketed as Old Town Commons. This distinction is important when searching listings, reviewing property records, or comparing nearby homes.

James Bland Homes Fast Facts

• Current community: Old Town Commons
• Location: Northwest portion of Old Town Alexandria
• ZIP code: Alexandria, VA 22314
• Jurisdiction: Independent City of Alexandria
• Property types: Townhomes, triplex residences, and multifamily housing
• Redevelopment period: Approximately 2008–2014
• Community design: Mixed-income, transit-accessible infill development
• Nearby Metro: Braddock Road

James Bland Homes and Old Town Commons Real Estate

The original James Bland Homes contained 194 public housing residences. Its redevelopment created Old Town Commons, a community of 379 residences that included 245 market-rate homes and 134 affordable triplex and multifamily units.

Market-rate properties commonly include multilevel townhomes constructed by EYA. Listings may use Old Town Commons as the marketed subdivision while retaining James Bland Homes in the legal description. Buyers should review both the listing information and official property record when confirming a home’s subdivision.

Townhome Styles and Interior Features

Old Town Commons townhomes combine traditional Alexandria-inspired exteriors with contemporary interiors. Depending on the model, residences may offer three or four finished levels, open living areas, hardwood flooring, large windows, and flexible rooms suitable for an office, den, or guest space.

Homes may also feature updated kitchens, bedroom suites with private bathrooms, attached garages, balconies, or rooftop terraces. Interior finishes and floor plans differ according to the property’s model, ownership history, and subsequent renovations.

Community Design and Outdoor Space

Old Town Commons was designed as a walkable extension of Alexandria’s historic street grid. Brick sidewalks, landscaped common areas, neighborhood parks, and pedestrian connections integrate the development with Parker-Gray and surrounding Old Town streets.

Private outdoor space varies by residence. Some homes have balconies, terraces, rooftop areas, or small yards, while community green spaces provide additional opportunities to enjoy the neighborhood outdoors.

HOA and Ownership Considerations

Market-rate townhomes within Old Town Commons are generally subject to homeowners association requirements. Fees may support common-area landscaping, community maintenance, and other shared responsibilities. Affordable and multifamily residences may operate under different ownership or management arrangements.

Buyers should verify the applicable association, monthly fee, insurance responsibilities, parking arrangements, rental restrictions, and governing documents for the individual property.

Parks and Recreation

Charles Houston Recreation Center is located near the community and provides indoor recreation, fitness facilities, programming, and outdoor amenities. Montgomery Park offers green space, a playground, tennis courts, and a dog area within North Old Town.

Residents can also reach the Mount Vernon Trail, Potomac River waterfront, Founders Park, and Alexandria’s network of neighborhood parks and recreation facilities.

Shopping and Dining

Old Town Commons is close to restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, and neighborhood services in Parker-Gray and North Old Town. King Street expands the selection with independent shops, restaurants, entertainment, and historic destinations.

Additional shopping and dining are available along North Washington Street, in Potomac Yard, and throughout Alexandria’s waterfront district.

Transportation and Commuting

Braddock Road Metro provides access to the Yellow Line and connections toward National Landing, Reagan National Airport, Washington, D.C., and other regional destinations. Residents can also use DASH buses, Metrobus service, and nearby bicycle routes.

North Patrick Street, North Henry Street, Route 1, the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and Interstate 495 provide connections throughout Alexandria and Northern Virginia.

Schools Serving the Community

Properties are served by Alexandria City Public Schools. School assignments depend on the individual address and may include Jefferson-Houston PreK–8 IB School and Alexandria City High School. Buyers should verify current attendance boundaries directly with the school division.

Nearby Alexandria Communities

• Old Town Commons
• Parker-Gray
• Old Town Alexandria
• Braddock Road
• Chatham Square
• Old Town Gateway
• North Old Town
• Potomac Yard

James Bland Homes Real Estate FAQs

Does James Bland Homes still exist?

The original community was redeveloped and is now known as Old Town Commons. The James Bland Homes name may remain in legal property records and some MLS subdivision fields.

What types of homes are available?

The redevelopment includes market-rate townhomes along with affordable triplex and multifamily residences.

Is the community close to Metro?

Yes. Old Town Commons is located near the Braddock Road Metro station.

Is James Bland Homes in Fairfax County?

No. The community is located within the independent City of Alexandria.