As FABB marks our 20th anniversary in 2025, we’re continuing to reflect on the progress we’ve made—and the work still ahead to make biking a safer, more connected, and more enjoyable experience across Fairfax County.
One area that’s seen exciting movement is Tysons, where we’ve long championed the idea that Northern Virginia’s economic hub can be walkable, livable, and bikable—not just car-centric.
Back in April 2014, FABB urged local riders to help shape the newly released Tysons Park System Concept Plan, a visionary blueprint that imagined an urban park network where people could move safely without a car—thanks to trails, bike connections, and better pedestrian access. That plan introduced the Tysons Community Circuit, a proposed 4.75-mile multimodal loop connecting parks, civic spaces, and key destinations with accessible trail infrastructure.
A few years earlier, FABB had worked with the county staff to develop a placeholder conceptual bicycle plan for Tysons, much of which was incorporated into the county’s Bicycle Master Plan and helped to shape the proposed circuit.
Now, that vision is starting to take shape—but implementation is still far too slow.
In March 2023, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors formally endorsed the design guidance for the Tysons Community Circuit, a first-of-its-kind multimodal trail loop in Fairfax County. It was a major milestone—one that reflects years of community support and FABB advocacy.
The circuit isn’t just a trail. It’s a comprehensive system built to serve walkers, joggers, families, commuters, and recreational cyclists alike. It emphasizes:
- Safe, well-designed intersections and crossings
- 10-foot-wide sidewalks with seating and social spaces
- Bike parking, water fountains, repair stations, and Bikeshare docks
- Connections to stream valleys, urban parks, Metrorail, and future bike lanes
Already, 1.15 miles of the circuit are open to the public, and recent infrastructure like the Jones Branch Connectorand the I-495 pedestrian bridge has strengthened the groundwork for seamless trail connectivity.
But we can’t stop here. Tysons needs our continued advocacy.
Much of the circuit’s future will be built incrementally—as development proceeds and funding becomes available. That’s why it’s critical that riders stay engaged and continue to speak up for better bike infrastructure, safe crossings, and walkable design in Tysons.
The original 2014 vision was clear: families, kids, and casual riders should be able to use these spaces safely. This trail isn’t just about recreation—it’s a bold reimagining of Tysons as a community, not just a business district.
The Tysons Community Circuit offers a model for other urban centers. But it will only succeed if our county leaders hear from residents who want faster progress, stronger connections, and equitable access for all.
FABB will continue pushing for full implementation of the Circuit and other plans that prioritize biking and walking. But we need your help to keep the momentum going:
- Contact your elected officials and ask for accelerated investments in Tysons trail and bike projects.
- Share your experiences biking or walking in Tysons—what works, and what’s still missing.
- Volunteer with FABB to support events, meetings, and outreach.
- Invite others to explore Tysons by bike and see the vision firsthand.
Twenty years ago, FABB started with a simple mission: to make biking better in Fairfax. With your support, we’ve helped make bike access a key part of the future of Tysons. Let’s make sure that future becomes a reality—sooner, not later.
Questions or want to get involved? Email us at [email protected].
