HIP Projects LLC submitted an amendment to its sketch plan application for “Block R” of The Spectrum at Watkins Mill, proposing the removal of the age restriction (age-restricted properties typically are reserved for a population that is 55 years of age and older), an increase in the number of dwelling units from 158 to 244, and raising the height limit from six stories to seven stories.
All other aspects of the overall sketch plan for The Spectrum at Watkins Mill remain the same as the previous approval. Under the previously approved Sketch Plan, the approved Schematic Development, and Final Site Plan approvals, approximately 40,000 square feet of retail and restaurant uses in multiple buildings have been constructed at the Spectrum. Notable elements include:
- Paramount East and West, a 224-unit apartment building, which opened in 2013 (Buildings A & C on the Sketch Plan);
- Majestic, a 243-unit apartment building, which opened in 2016 (Building H on the Sketch Plan);
- Firebirds Restaurant (approximately 6,500 square feet);
- Outdoor dining and Performance Pavilion at Performers’ Park;
- Royal Farms convenience store and service station (approximately 4,800 square feet);
- Starbucks (approximately 2,500 square feet).
Additionally, approximately two (2) acres in the southwestern corner of the Spectrum were dedicated to Montgomery County in 2011 for a 6th District Police Station, and approximately 1.8 acres on the western side were dedicated to the City in 2013 for a Senior Center. The 6th District Police Station was designed and approved and is currently under construction. The Senior Center has neither been designed nor built, and construction is not anticipated in the City’s capital budget. The Applicant has dedicated significant right-of-way for transportation improvements, including the Watkins Mill Interchange, which supports the Spectrum and the surrounding community.
A Joint Public Hearing was held Monday, October 21, 2024. The Planning Commission has tentatively scheduled their recommendation for December 4, 2024, and their record will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. The Mayor and City Council have tentatively scheduled their Policy Discussion for Monday, January 6, 2025, and their record will close at 5 p.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024. Any questions or comments on the application should be directed to the Gaithersburg Planning Division by phone at 301-258-6330 or by email to [email protected].