Columbia pike isn't great either. wludavid even those neighborhoods along the bike trail near 395 in alexandria have gang tags and such. (Near that Old Safeway that's now + $ Imports (or whatever it's called). )
Rob,
I would find yourself a condo in the ballston/clarendon area rather than try and stick it out in an apt where you're looking. Or you could try renting a condo on Fairlington/Shirlington/Park Fairfax. Those areas are OK - though the bangers occasionally steal radios (mine!) or whole cars.
I'd also stay away from the places along 395 as well like near Landmark Mall. Hell the gangs are out chopping off hands with Machetes in Landmark and even out in Fairfax. Then you have the shootings in the pool halls near GMU.
Even Manassas for ****'s sake! Funny thing though, Pimmit HIlls on ry 7 used you have motorcycle gangs in the 1970's - those a half million houses now (when they're not tear down property for a McMansion).
Dave, Pari, you all laugh will I bunker down in Bristow. I'll see you out my way (or further) one day.
