amazon_softlaunch_top.jpg

Amazon in Arlington

Amazon HQ2

Amazon's decision to select Northern Virginia validated the region as a world-class hub for the tech industry.

In what was called one of the most significant economic development projects in recent history, Amazon chose Arlington and Northern Virginia as the location for its second headquarters in 2018, following a year-long process in which Amazon considered 238 proposals from communities across North America.

Amazon has also already proven to be a good neighbor in the community, providing support not only for Northern Virginia's tech talent pipeline but also by supporting local restaurants and making significant contributions to affordable housing projects in Arlington. Follow their journey with us here in Arlington.

Amazon Then and Now

HQ2 Today

Metropolitan Park Opens to Employees

MetPark workspace_small.jpg

The first phase of the highly-anticipated Amazon HQ2 in Arlington is now a reality. Known as Metropolitan Park, Amazon welcomed its employees to Phase One of its new headquarters in May 2023.

Amazon HQ2 currently employs more than 8,000 employees in the new space, which will also feature a renovated public open space, three public art installations and numerous small business ventures. By 2031, the company anticipates occupying at least four million SF of office space and creating a minimum of 25,000 jobs.

Latest Amazon HQ2 News

 

Phase 1

Phase One — Metropolitan Park

Met Park Phase One of HQ2, which opened to employees in May 2023, includes two 22-story towers that will house up to 14,000 employees, as well as 65,000 SF of ground floor retail featuring local small businesses.

The community features a fully-renovated Metropolitan Park, with new walkways, a dog park and three public art installations.

Learn more about Amazon's development projects,  Economic Development Incentive Grant Agreement and community engagement.

Phase 2

Phase Two — Pen Place

Arlington County has approved plans for Phase Two of HQ2, commonly known as Pen Place, which comprises 3.3 million square feet of new office space across three 22-story buildings, all of which are planned to be designed to LEED Platinum standards.

The site's landmark building, The Helix, will feature walkable paths, collaborative workspaces and an artist-in-residence program. It will include a 2.5-acre open space area, accessible for public use, that can be used for outdoor concerts, farmers' markets and more.

Due to economic uncertainty, the Pen Place portion of HQ2 was paused temporarily in March 2023. 

Related News

HQ2 prepares to welcome Arlington Community High School to MetPark

October 11, 2024

As part of our commitment to providing a home for Arlington Community High School (ACHS) by 2026, we are finalizing plans to welcome more than 250 ACHS students, faculty, and staff to HQ2’s Metropolitan Park in time for the 2026-2027 school year. Since we selected Arlington as the home of our second headquarters in 2018, we have worked closely with the county and School Board to address one of the
Amazon’s HQ2 opens a new interactive innovation venue

September 19, 2023

The new Amazon Visitor Landing at Met Park provides neighbors, visitors, and customers with an inside look at the people and innovations who bring the magic of Amazon to life.
Get an exclusive first look inside first phase of Amazon’s HQ2

May 22, 2023

Amazon opened the first phase of its second headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, on May 22. See the first photos from inside.

More News

Contact Us

Michael Stiefvater

Director, Business Investment

Michael oversees Arlington’s business attraction and retention programs and is available to help you find the precise tools and strategies needed for a seamless relocation or expansion for your business.

Get In Touch