GOCA Update July 2026

Dear Oakton Neighbors and Friends,

Summer is one of the best times to enjoy what makes Oakton special – our parks, our neighborhoods, and, most importantly, our community. We are excited to invite you to our 6th annual Oakton Day in the Park on Sunday, August 30, from 1 - 4 pm. Whether you've lived here for decades or just moved to Oakton, this is your opportunity to connect with neighbors, meet local organizations, enjoy great food, and celebrate the community we all call home.

Community News

• Oakton Library Name to Remain Unchanged

• Oakton Congestion and Pedestrian Safety Study Moves Forward

• AT&T Site Redevelopment Proposal Continues to Evolve

• Hunter Mill Road Sidewalk Project is Being Explored

GOCA News

• GOCA Launches Newly Redesigned Website

• GOCA Awards $20,000 in Educator Grants

• Join Us at Oakton Day in the Park on August 30 - Volunteers Needed

• Progress on Restroom and Pavilion for Oakton Community Park 

Other Items 

• Spotlight on Our Local Stewards: Oakton Partners in Learning

• Upcoming Invasive Plant Removal Events

• How You Can Get Involved

Community News

Oakton Library Name to Remain Unchanged

Earlier this year, the Fairfax County Library Board of Trustees (LBOT) invited public input on a proposal to rename the Oakton Library to the Oakton Connolly Library to honor late Congressman Gerry Connolly. Residents shared thoughtful comments, and local organizations came together to ensure the community's perspective was heard. 

Following two ad hoc committee meetings including representatives from GOCA, Friends of the Oakton Library, Options for Oakton, and Smart Growth for Oakton, the committee recommended keeping the library name while honoring Congressman Gerry Connolly by naming the library’s main reading room after him. 

On July 8, the LBOT voted to accept the committee’s recommendation.  We are grateful to the LBOT and its ad hoc committee for thoughtfully considering the community's input and for reaching a solution that both preserves Oakton Library's identity and recognizes Congressman Connolly's many years of public service.

Oakton Congestion and Pedestrian Safety Study Moves Forward

One of the most important transportation studies affecting Oakton is continuing. According to Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT), a third public meeting is expected in late summer or early fall. At that meeting, residents will see updated traffic analysis, review several proposed improvement scenarios, and once again have the opportunity to provide feedback.

Additionally, traffic consultant Kimley-Horn is currently developing roadway improvement concepts incorporating some of the options presented at the March community meeting, as well as other options. The final study is expected by late 2026 or early 2027.  

FCDOT also confirmed that the community survey has now been cleansed of automated ("bot") responses that distorted earlier results.  The updated survey results can be found here.

AT&T Site Redevelopment Proposal Continues to Evolve

Developer EYA is revising its rezoning application in response to comments from VDOT regarding the anticipated increase in traffic volume the development will bring. Because the property is located at one of Oakton's most prominent gateways, decisions made during this process will have a lasting impact on traffic, housing, and the character of our community. GOCA encourages residents to stay informed and continue sharing questions and feedback with GOCA, Supervisor Palchik and Providence Planning Commissioner Jeremy Hancock.

Hunter Mill Road Sidewalk Project is Being Explored

GOCA recently met with FCDOT and Providence District staff regarding the long-discussed sidewalk extension along Hunter Mill Road between Samaga Drive and Oakton Community Park. While the project remains unfunded, FCDOT is exploring ways to reduce construction costs, including potential partnerships with churches along the corridor that may be willing to provide right-of-way access. Providence County staff are also evaluating possible funding opportunities and GOCA hopes that our state representatives may be able to help advance this effort.

GOCA News

GOCA Launches Newly Redesigned Website

We’ve given GOCA’s website a fresh look, and it’s now easier to stay connected with what’s happening in Oakton.  This is a great resource for upcoming events, local history, volunteer opportunities, and important government contacts.  Take a look at the new website and let us know what you think!

This transformation wouldn't have been possible without Rein Deaton, who generously gave his time and expertise to build the new site. If your organization or someone you know is seeking a talented communicator who can translate complex ideas into clear, engaging content, we encourage you to connect with Rein on LinkedIn.

GOCA Awards $20,000 in Educator Grants  

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor committed to strengthening our community, GOCA has awarded a total of $20,000, with $5,000 grants going to each of the following schools:

• Oakton Elementary School

• Mosaic Elementary School

• Waples Mill Elementary School

• Oakton High School

School principals will work directly with teachers to determine where these funds can have the greatest impact on students.  We're proud to support the Oakton educators who make such a difference every day.

Join Us at Oakton Day in the Park on Sunday, August 30, 1 - 4 pm

Oakton's favorite community celebration is almost here!  We're bringing back many of the activities and vendors everyone loves including:

• The Rockits band

• Tony's Pizza

• Famous Dave's

• Ben & Jerry's

• Petting Zoo

• Mountain Kim demonstrations

You'll also enjoy exciting new activities, including:

• The amazing "Frisbee Guy"

• Hands-on paper-making from The Grounds of Livev

• Historic Schoolhouse activities

• Children's games and crafts

• Community organizations, exhibits, and much more!

This event is entirely powered by volunteers and we need your help: Please sign up here.

Progress on Restroom and Pavilion for Oakton Community Park

Adding water, a restroom, a small kitchen, and a pavilion to Oakton Community Park has been a priority for GOCA since our organization was founded.  Thanks to a lead donor and the efforts of Supervisor Dalia Palchik, Fairfax County Park Foundation Executive Director Bobby Longworth, and Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) Deputy Director for Planning and Development Nigel Fields and their staff, we are closer to seeing it come to fruition.  GOCA has now reviewed preliminary designs and the next step is receiving cost estimates from FCPA. Once we have a better understanding of the project’s cost, GOCA will explore fundraising opportunities for the community to make this a reality.  If you have fundraising ideas, connections, or want to get involved, please contact us. 

Other Items

Spotlight on Our Local Stewards: Oakton Partners in Learning

On weekday evenings during the school year, volunteers at Oakton Partners in Learning (OPIL) provide free, in-person tutoring for students.  Hosted at Oakton Church of the Brethren, OPIL provides personalized academic support for learners of all ages, from elementary school through high school, as well as adults. Whether it's tackling homework, strengthening skills in a challenging subject, preparing for SOL exams, or receiving guidance in music and choir, volunteer tutors are available to help.  You can learn more and register for tutoring sessions at their website or you can visit their table at Oakton Day in the Park!

Upcoming Invasive Plant Removal Events

• Difficult Run Stream Valley Park, Saturday, July 18 from 9 - 11 am.  Please register here. 

• Oakton Community Park, Saturday, July 11 from 9 - 11 am.   If interested in helping, please contact Willow Martin.

How You Can Get Involved

The future of Oakton depends on informed and engaged residents. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Volunteer to help with Oakton Day in the Park.Please sign up here.

• Share our newsletters with friends and neighbors. If you live in an HOA community, please encourage your HOA to share GOCA updates and provide us with a contact person.

• Support the initiative to bring a restroom and pavilion to Oakton Community Park.  

• Participate in stewardship activities like invasive plant removal or volunteer to help with Oakton Partners in learning.

• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

• Speak up on issues like transportation, development, and community planning.

• Donate to sustain GOCA’s efforts. 

With best regards,

The GOCA Board

Lauren Crum and Shelley Deutch, Co-ChairsLinda Byrne, Jackie Davey, Mark Deaton, Janet Kerr-Tener (Founding Co-Chair), Kris Olsen, Robin Thurman, Gary Wong 

GOCA is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, and 100% of your donations go to our community efforts.  To donate, please visit our PayPal link.  If you would like to become more actively involved, email us at contact@greateroakton.com and we can match you with the right opportunity.