Sketch Plan Submitted For Lakeforest Mall Redevelopment; Public Hearing Takes Place in January

WRS Inc. has submitted Zoning Map Amendment application Z-9444-2022 that proposes to rezone the Lakeforest Mall from the current C-2 (general commercial) to the MXD Zone (mixed-use) zone. The application includes a sketch plan requesting up to approximately 1.2 million square feet of non-residential uses and up to 1,600 dwelling units on 102 acres of land. A Joint Public Hearing is scheduled for January 17, 2023.

WRS is proposing a full redevelopment of the Lakeforest Mall to allow for a multi- stage, mixed-use community with up to:

• 1,600 dwelling units comprised of multi-family (rental and ownership), townhomes, and GAP housing (2over2, triplex, et al.)
• 750,000 square feet of employment uses (hereinafter defined to include professional office, financial institutions and banks, medical office, life sciences, research and development, and integrated light manufacturing uses
• 250,000 square feet of large format retail uses
• 220,000 square feet of neighborhood scaled commercial and entertainment/amusement
uses.

Further, the Sketch Plan proposes to accommodate MCDOT’s desire to re-locate and enhance the Lakeforest Transit Center, improving the future operation of Bus Rapid Transit along Frederick Avenue. The plan proposes dividing the redeveloped Mall into 16 blocks, A through P:

• Block A is a community park
• Blocks C, B, D and E, will define the commercial core of the Property
• Block F is the location of the relocated Lakeforest Transit Center
• Block J is identified as a community green space and amenity location
• Blocks G through P, comprising the southern portion of the Property is envisioned to be a mix of townhouse, Gap housing, and multi-family condominium units.


WRS purchased the core, ponds, and forest conservation of the mall back in 2019 and added the four anchor sites earlier this year, spending a total of $75 million to acquire Lakeforest Mall. In October, WRS held an informational meeting on Thursday evening to share some early plans for what will take the place of the mall. Per that meeting, the target date for demolition of the mall and the start of new construction is currently 2024,

Recent Stories

The Maryland State Police have released information regarding its participation in this Saturday’s National Drug Take Back Day.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have announced that it had intercepted its sixth gun at a security checkpoint so far this month.

Gaithersburg: State of the City

Mayor Jud Ashman and members of the City Council hosted the 2024 State of the City address on Thursday, April 18, at Asbury Methodist Village.

Below is a list of businesses that have recently opened, closed, or are coming soon to Wheaton Mall at 11160 Veirs Mill Rd.

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!!!

×

Subscribe to our mailing list