ALEXANDRIA
- Latitude: 38.8091 •
- Longitude: -77.0352 •
- US East Coast •
- Port in US
Address: Alexandria VA 22314 US
Phone number: +1-703-555-1234
Web-site: http://www.alexandriaport.com
Alexandria, Virginia, is a historic city located on the western bank of the Potomac River, just a few miles south of Washington, D.C. While Alexandria is well-known for its historical significance and colonial architecture, it is not primarily known as a major marine port in the commercial sense, especially when compared to larger ports like those found in Baltimore or Norfolk. However, Alexandria does have considerable maritime activity primarily geared towards tourism, recreation, and small-scale commercial uses.
Key Features and Specifications:
Location:
- Coordinates: Approximately 38.8048° N, 77.0469° W
- Nearby Major Waterway: Potomac River
Facilities:
- Marinas and Docks: Several marinas cater to private boat owners, including the Alexandria City Marina and the nearby Belle Haven Marina.
- Cruise and Water Taxi Services: Various companies operate river cruises and water taxi services, offering connections to Washington, D.C., National Harbor, and Mount Vernon.
Port Services:
- Tourism: Alexandria's waterfront features numerous attractions, including historic Old Town Alexandria, restaurants, shops, and parks.
- Recreational Boating: Facilities are available for mooring private vessels and providing essential services like fueling and repairs.
- Fishing and Small-Scale Commercial Activity: Limited but present, focusing more on local needs.
Infrastructure:
- Accessibility:
- Road: Easily accessible via major highways like I-95, I-395, and the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
- Rail: Served by Amtrak and regional train services, offering connections to broader national and local networks.
- Nearby Airports: It is proximate to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), providing convenient air travel options.
Environmental and Regulatory Considerations:
- Regulations: Governed by both local ordinances and federal regulations, primarily because of its proximity to the national capital and sensitive ecological zones.
- Environmental Impact: Efforts are underway to enhance the environmental sustainability of the waterfront, including pollution controls and habitat restoration activities.
Historical Significance:
- Alexandria's waterfront and port areas have been vital since colonial times, serving as a significant point for goods and passenger transport before the rise of major industrial seaports.
Current Developments:
- Revitalization Projects: Ongoing efforts to enhance public access, improve facilities, and promote the waterfront as a vibrant cultural and recreational attraction.
Summary:
While Alexandria, Virginia, lacks the large-scale commercial port operations seen in other U.S. ports, its waterfront remains an essential part of the city’s cultural and recreational life, benefiting significantly from its strategic location on the Potomac River. Its facilities primarily support tourism, recreational boating, and small-scale commercial activities.