Nonprofit Gets Extension At Montgomery Center, Site Of Future Redevelopment

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Art League's classes won't be interrupted amid pending redevelopment of the Montgomery Center in Alexandria's Old Town North.

As shared by the Old Town North Alliance, the Art League has secured a lease extension on its Montgomery Center space at 305 Madison Street through June 30, 2024. The nonprofit, which hosts some of its classes at the Madison Annex, will get to continue its summer, fall, winter and spring classes without interruptions.

Montgomery Center is a block with various business tenants. In the spring, developer Carr Companies received approval for a redevelopment of Montgomery Center into a mixed-use development. Plans include a multifamily residential building, an arts and culture anchor, ground floor retail and two public plazas.

The development plans left tenants scrambling to find new locations. Some have already relocated, like Crooked Beat Records, which found a new home in Del Ray. Another business, A La Lucia, is expected to close before the end of 2023, ALX Now reported.

The Art League noted after it leaves at the end of June 2024, Carr Companies is planning to break ground on the redevelopment in July 2024.

Meanwhile, the Art League is seeking approval from the city to operate a school at 800 Slaters Lane, a former print shop location. Reviews by the Planning Commission and City Council are expected in September.

If the location is approved by the city, the Art League plans to seek community support through fundraising to build out the space.

The Art League also has space at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Room 216, including headquarters and additional classrooms.