Crumley Steps In

A librarian by trade, Sean Crumley understands the importance of research and investigation all too well. But as the new president of the Del Ray Citizen's Association, he knows he won't always have the luxury of preparation or even warning in many cases.

"There's always something going on and oftentimes these things arise out of nowhere," Crumley said. "It could be a business decision, a city [government] decision or something environmental like last month's storm."

Crumley, a five-year resident of Del Ray who makes his home on Nelson Avenue, was elected president of the DRCA in June. The organization's executive board has spent the summer transitioning into their new roles.

On Monday, the DRCA will kickoff its calendar year with its membership meeting at Mount Vernon Community School at 7:30 p.m.

While issues will pop up without caution, Crumley feels one of the most important things facing the community is something that's been on the Alexandria's docket for quite some time — the redevelopment of Potomac Yard.

Earlier this summer, the City Council approved a $4 billion development plan for the shopping center that would include a Metrorail station and increased residential space.

While the plan is very long-term in its scope, the development presents issues of increased traffic and population density, among other things.

"First the subway was announced, then it was unannounced," Crumley said. "Now it appears to be back in play. … Hopefully it will ultimately have a positive effect [on Del Ray]."

Former DRCA president David Fromm remains on the executive board, serving this calendar year as treasurer.

"David has stayed on top of the Potomac Yard development for years," said Crumley, who has served two terms as a vice president of the DRCA. "His knowledge of how things have developed and changed there is really valuable."

Along with keeping up with long-term issues, Crumley understands the importance of maintaining the community events that make Del Ray a special community. He said that the association's positive relationship with businesses has gone a long way in keeping those things going.

"I think last year was tough on the businesses in Del Ray," Crumley said. "I think the combination of the harsh winter, harsh summer, the periodic localized blackouts and the harsh economy made it a tough year. But there's a strong spirit among the business owners and they were still able to carry on with their community outreach stuff despite the tough year."

And maintaining relationships appears to be Crumley's biggest goal in sustaining that certain way of life for the people of Del Ray.

"There's a great spirit of cooperation with the businesses and I feel a good relationship with city hall," Crumley said. "The president role wasn't something I planned on, but I have the benefit standing on all the great deal of work the association has done over the years."

The Del Ray Citizen's Association 2010-11 Executive Board: President Sean Crumley; First Vice President, Pat Miller; Second Vice President, Hector Huezo; Third Vice President, Ashley Klick; Treasurer, David Fromm; Secretary, Rainey Astin; Sergeant at Arms, Chris Warnke.