It took some time, but I finally heard back from Boston Properties regarding my concerns about smoking at Reston Town Center. Their response stated:

“Thank you for reaching out. Our smoking policies conform with County and State laws. Smoking is prohibited inside and within 25 feet of our building entrances. Our Security Team monitors those areas for compliance. Additionally, designated smoking areas are identified throughout Reston Town Center.” While I appreciated his reply, I respectfully challenged this statement—because it simply doesn’t reflect what many of us have experienced. Smoking continues to occur throughout RTC, often in high-traffic areas where families, children, and patrons gather. and no obvious signage. My follow-up email addressing these concerns has yet to receive a response. 

That said, I’ve noticed something encouraging since raising this issue and launching the petition to make Reston Town Center a smoke-free community space, more signage has appeared—including at restaurants. It’s a meaningful shift which was my goal have designated areas, and not just say they do.

This petition is about protecting the health and comfort of everyone who comes to enjoy RTC. We deserve a space that’s safe, welcoming, and breathable. It is simply stating, If they choose this habit and don't get help to stop smoking, they need to smoke in their own space outside the town center community areas.

Your signatures are making a difference. Let’s keep the momentum going. I’ll be sharing this progress in my next message to Boston Properties. I’m just one person trying to help my community—but together, we’re being heard.

I and my fellow petition members, urge the leadership and management of Reston Town Center to designate all public areas within the town center as smoke-free zones. 

There are clear and compelling reasons to support this policy change — for the health, safety, and well-being of all who live, work, eat and visit this vibrant community hub.

 
Why Reston Town Center Should Be Smoke-Free:

1. Protects Public Health
Secondhand smoke and vape contains over 7,000 chemicals — many of them toxic and nearly 70 known to cause cancer. Children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable. My specific disease it PROGRESSES THE DISEASE IF YOU BREATHE IN SECOND HAND SMOKE. Everyone deserves to enjoy public spaces without risking their health. Point blank period. 

2. Creates a Cleaner Environment
Cigarette butts are the most littered item worldwide. They stain sidewalks, hurt pets and other wildlife, pollute waterways, and take years to decompose. A smoke-free policy would significantly reduce waste and preserve the beauty of Reston Town Center.

3. Encourages Healthy Choices
Smoke-free spaces help reduce the visibility and normalization of smoking, particularly among youth. It promotes a culture of wellness and discourages harmful habits. We have been harassed I already ate it mentioning to not smoke around us to many smokers and rest town center, this is not OK.

4. Reduces Fire Hazards
Cigarettes are a known fire risk — tell her the wind tunnel also a tunnel for smoke unfortunately . This is a huge fire Hazard , especially in outdoor areas with landscaping and trash receptacles. Prohibiting smoking can prevent accidental fires and ensure greater public safety.

5. Improves Air Quality
Smoke lingers long after a cigarette is extinguished. Enforcing a smoke-free zone ensures clean, breathable air for all — Smoker should not be catered to, Directly affects public health. Cascades overlooking Sterling for example no smoking policy. It is a place where people live eat work, etc. and that’s how Reston town center should be as well. 

6. Increases Accessibility and Inclusivity
People with asthma, allergies, or sensitivity to smoke often avoid public spaces where smoking is common. By going smoke-free, Reston Town Center becomes more inclusive and accessible to everyone. And is also just a hazard for everyone.

7. Supports Mental and Community Well-Being
Clean, peaceful, and welcoming environments foster a sense of comfort, safety, and connection. A smoke-free policy enhances the overall experience for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

 We believe Reston Town Center can set a positive example by prioritizing public health and community well-being.

We respectfully call on town management to adopt and enforce a smoke-free policy throughout all shared and open public areas so Reston Town Center can be a safe place to be in community together. This is vital.