20 Acres of Crown Farm Were Sold for $28 Million Approximately 10 Years Ago, Launching the Development of “Downtown Crown”

20 acres of Gaithersburg’s Crown Farm was sold to JBG Rosenfeld Retail and the Bozzuto Group for $28 million nearly 10 years ago, in July of 2012. According to documents from what was then Crown Farm Community, this purchase included approximately 11 percent of Crown Farm’s 180 acres, for the development of Downtown Crown, “a mixed-use project slated to include a Harris Teeter-anchored retail center and nearly 540 apartments.” JBG Rosenfeld Retail purchased the property to build 260,000 square feet of retail. The Bozzuto Group purchased the multifamily development rights to build 538 apartments above the retail.

Located in Gaithersburg,  just west of Interstate-270 and the Intercounty Connector, Downtown Crown is considered the “retail heart” of Crown—a 182-acre master-planned community that was to consist of “more than 2,200 new homes and apartments, acres of parks, trails and a future transit stop for the Corridor City Transitway.” The community plan also incorporated a high school and a Corridor Cities Transit station for a light rail or bus line that would connect Gaithersburg with Clarksburg. Construction began later that summer for the plans that included the previously mentioned Harris Teeter, an LA Fitness, and a Starbucks. In October, the following restaurants were announced for Downtown Crown (not all ended up opening):

  • Coastal Flats: A Carolina-inspired seafood restaurant that is part of the Great American Restaurant Group
  • Asia Nine: A Thai and sushi bar with a popular location near the spy museum in Washington, DC
  • Chicago-based Roti Mediterranean Grill
  • French bakery La Madeleine
  • Lime Fresh Mexican Grill: A fast-casual eastery popular in the South
  • La Tagliatella: A Europe-based restaurant that’s part of the AmRest Holdings business group, the largest operator of independing restaurants in Central and Eastern Europe, serving high-quality Italian fare.

By February of 2013, Chop’t, Yogiberry, and Georgetown Square Wine and Beer were added to the list of new tenants. Venti-Tre, an “Italian Chipotle”, and Smashburger signed on as well. In July, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse signed on. In early 2014, ZAGG, hair and nail salon Body by Bio, &pizza, and Crown Cleaners were announced.

Not everything has gone as planned, and there have been plenty of openings and closings since Crown opened nearly a decade ago, but “Downtown Crown” has become a popular destination for Montgomery County residents…many of whom remember when the area was just a farm not so long ago.

 

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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!!!

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