The Montgomery County Planning Board approved Carr Companies and Donohoe Development Company’s proposal to redevelop the southern portion of the existing lot that currently contains the 1-story retail with a new 18-story mixed-use development with ground floor retail and multifamily residential above, anticipating up to 380 dwelling units with 15% moderately priced dwelling units.
Per Montgomery Planning:
The existing hotel, structured parking and associated access points along Wisconsin Avenue and The Hills Plaza are to remain. The Applicant proposes a total density of 406,563 total square feet. This includes up to 278,591 square feet of residential uses, which includes up to 50,238 square feet of MPDU bonus density for providing 15% MPDUs, and up to 137,972 square feet of non-residential uses (which includes 125,472 square feet of existing hotel). Any given combination of commercial and residential density shall not exceed 406,563 square feet.
The Applicant proposes to construct a private shared street connection between the existing hotel and future development, which will connect Wisconsin Avenue to The Hills Plaza and allow for loading and residential parking access from the future street. The proposed development will be considered one structure connected by the existing below grade parking garage that emerges at the surface as two towers, one for the existing hotel and one for the future mixed-use development. The proposed development will not require a Preliminary Plan as the Property is on a recorded lot and no additional dedication is required, however a subsequent Site Plan will be required.
Mixed-Use Development
As proposed, the future development will provide a 6-story base that defines and contributes to the existing street wall along the Wisconsin Avenue frontage with a stepback above the 6th story to allow a narrow tower for the remaining 13 stories. Along the South Park Avenue frontage, the base will be setback further from the property line to provide a pocket park and lower two-story base, with deep stepbacks above the 6th floor to further define the tower from the inner street and provide additional separation from the existing residential building to the south. The main entrance will be on the corner of South Park Avenue and The Hills Plaza, strengthening the future development’s relationship to the existing residential to the southwest as well as the Hubert Humphrey Park and Friendship Heights Community Center located across The Hills Plaza. The proposed first floor retail is envisioned to front along the future shared street connection to activate the area and allow for additional porosity though the large existing block. The future shared street connection will also provide access for loading and the existing parking garage, as well as a new entrance to the hotel.
Maximum Building Height
The Property is zoned CR 3.0 C 2.0 R 2.75 H 90T. The T provision, as specified within Section 59.4.5.2.D of the Zoning Ordinance, allows height on a portion of a building to increase above the number following the H, in this case 90’, so long as the average height of the building is no greater than the maximum height allowed by the mapped zone. The Applicant proposes a maximum building height of 185 feet, however with the existing 12- story building and the massing of the future building to contain lower levels, the average overall building height of the Site will remain below the mapped zone of 90 feet. The Applicant has received confirmation from the Department of Permitting Services that the methodology used to determine the average height for this Site is in conformance with the Zoning Ordinance. Staff has also reviewed and analyzed the methodology, which is further described in Section 4, Finding 1.
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From the Offices of Councilmembers Will Jawando, Gabe Albornoz and Kristin Mink:
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
