THE BIG IDEA

Arlington becoming an AI powerhouse in the United States.

Arlington is rapidly transforming into a major AI powerhouse, fueled by a unique blend of federal resources and venture capital. This, coupled with an influx of private sector giants like Amazon and Deloitte, has attracted a wave of AI startups and established firms seeking to capitalize on this teeming environment.

Amazon's HQ2 has been a game changer as well. With plans to create 25,000 tech jobs by 2030, this $2.5 billion urban development project is reshaping Arlington's economic landscape.

To support the projected growth in AI applications, Arlington is taking a proactive approach to data center development, focusing on renewable energy and efficient cooling solutions to minimize environmental impact and align with the county's sustainability goals.

They've also established partnerships through Virginia Tech's Innovation Campus and George Mason's Institute for Digital Innovation to cultivate a top-tier AI talent pipeline for the future.

Bulletin Board 📌 

Reader Restaurant Recommendation: One of our readers, Stella, recommends you guys check out Hometown Grill and Bar in Lorton.

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QUICK HITS 

• The Smithsonian just released an augmented reality based “Cosmic Journey” which you can check out here.

• The infamous Route 7 bottleneck has been solved after $300M in investment.

• Google plans on investing another billion dollars into the Northern Virginia data center market.

• Check out this rooftop disco sushi bar that just opened up in DC. Omakase with retro vibes? Sign me up.

• This $39M $33M mansion in McLean is still on the market.

• It’s farmers market season. Check out this comprehensive list of markets near you happening this month.

LIVE EVENT LOWDOWN

• Flower Mart 2024 | two full days of live performances at the Washington Cathedral Garden today and tomorrow.

• Friday Night Live | the DC area’s best free outdoor concert series kicks off it’s 30th season tonight!

• Sly’s Magic Show | an adult comedy and magic show at the Stage Coach Theatre in Ashburn tonight.

• URBNmarket | a spring pop-up market happening this weekend at the Mosaic District.

• Star Wars Weekend | a transformation of National’s Park to celebrate May the 4th. Learn more here.

• The Virginia Gold Cup | this year’s race is happening tomorrow in The Plains.

• Perchfest | a free weekend of retro music vibes at Capital One Hall starting tonight.

• Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival | the fest is wrapping up but there’s still a ton of cool events to close out the weekend.

• Taste of Tysons | this year’s live music and food tasting event at the Plaza kicks off tomorrow.

• Maker’s Market | this family friendly sip-and-shop event is set for tomorrow at Port City Brewing in Alexandria.

• Cinco de Mayo | the Mosaic District’s annual block party is going all weekend this year.

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