Rosslyn's community planner
Meet Community Planning Director, Alli Henry 
Alli Henry has called Arlington home for over 10 years. Prior to joining the BID, she worked for Arlington County Government in various community engagement roles. In addition to working as the BID’s Community Planning Director, Alli is wrapping up the final semester of her master’s degree in Community and Regional Planning from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Here's a bit about Alli!
Rosslynva.org: What does your perfect day look like?
Alli: I’d start my morning with my partner and our dog outside on the patio enjoying coffee and reading the newspaper (yes, some millennials still prefer print newspapers). Then we’d walk to the Arlington Farmer’s Market in Courthouse before strolling around our neighborhood or visiting a local park. In the evening, we’d head into DC for a concert at the 9:30 Club or share a fun dinner with our friends and family.
Rosslynva.org: Who is your role model? Why?
Alli: My 93-year-old grandfather recently decided he wanted an iPhone so he could learn to FaceTime with family. Nothing makes me smile more than video chatting with him and hearing about his week...he never slows down! I’ll forever be grateful to him for teaching us the value of prioritizing family and reminding us we’re never too old to learn something new.
Rosslynva.org: What do you like most about your job?
Alli: As an Arlington resident, I love being able to serve our community and collaborate with the BID’s amazing partners. My work has always been guided by a people-first planning approach and my desire to create more socially welcoming and connected communities. There’s no better feeling than helping others feel a sense of pride and belonging in our Rosslyn neighborhood.
Rosslynva.org: What’s your guilty pleasure?
Alli: I have a weakness for dumplings and fajitas. My partner, Andrew, and I both enjoy trying new restaurants and cooking together at home. Lucky for me, he’s become a pretty good cook over the years!
Rosslynva.org: What’s your philosophy toward work?
Alli: Growing up, my family owned a real estate management company and I loved working in my Dad’s office after school. He always encouraged me to pursue a career aligned with my interests so “I’d never have to work a day in my life.” Fortunately, I’ve spent the past ten years “working” in various public and private sector jobs supporting Arlington County’s community engagement and smart growth efforts. Working on Rosslyn’s various community planning efforts (e.g., development, urban design, transportation and placemaking) truly aligns with my passions and desire to support our Arlington community.
Alli's favorite...
Band:
The National. I’m also a big fan of Okkervil River.
TV show:
I just finished the third season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel…Midge is my favorite! I also really enjoy watching Vox’s Explained documentaries on Netflix.
Book:
I’m a huge book worm. I’m currently reading David Sim’s new book "Soft City"…neat read for my nerdy urbanist friends.
Color:
While living in Vancouver, I developed a deeper appreciation for all things “green”. I believe it’s vital for our overall wellbeing to remain mentally and physically connected to nature. I’m also a big believer that you can never have enough plants!
Podcast:
I’m always in search of new podcasts. Currently, my top picks are "The Daily," "Freakonomics Radio," "Deliciously Ella" and NPR’s "How I Built This."
What else should we know about you?
I love staying plugged into international urbanist trends and connecting with new people via Twitter. Connect with me @GenY4Transit.
Pictured above: Alli and her fiancé Andrew in Whistler, Canada.