on Feb 21, 2024

Bowser Administration Releases Plan for More Housing in Rock Creek West

 

This press release was originally issued by the DC Office of Planning

 

Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework is the Latest Proposal to Create More Opportunities in Thriving Neighborhoods

 

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Office of Planning (OP) released the Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework to advance the District’s housing goals in neighborhoods west of Rock Creek Park.

 

“The Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework brings a vision of equitable development and opportunities for all residents,” said Office of Planning Director Anita Cozart. “The recommendations will enable more DC residents access to the schools, jobs, transit, and other amenities this part of the city has to offer.”

 

The Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework lays the groundwork for up to 9,500 new homes, including up to 1,700 dedicated affordable in Friendship Heights and Tenleytown. Recommendations rooted in urban design promote well-designed blocks that serve residents of all ages and abilities with active public spaces anchored by retail, restaurants, and cultural and entertainment uses.

 

The Rock Creek West Roadmap, released in 2021, outlined District programs and policies to address the shortage of affordable housing in this area of the city—working toward Mayor Bowser’s goal of 1,990 additional affordable housing units in Rock Creek West. The Rock Creek West Roadmap includes a combination of key District tools and programs, including Comprehensive Plan land use guidance; neighborhood-based plans; housing tools, such as inclusionary zoning; and targeted investments, such as the Housing Production Trust Fund.

 

The Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework concludes a trio of planning work for Rock Creek West led by the Office of Planning. OP completed the Chevy Chase Small Area Plan in 2022 and the Connecticut Avenue Design Guidelines in 2023. Together, these three plans allow for approximately 10,000 new housing units, of which over 2,000 could be dedicated affordable housing. Over 80% of this new housing capacity is within walking distance of a Metrorail station and adjoining commercial corridors.

 

Recommendations for the Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework were developed through extensive community engagement and coordination with Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners, civic associations, Main Street organizations, and other stakeholders. OP also synchronized efforts with concurrent planning efforts led by the District Department of Transportation, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, and Montgomery County, Maryland.

 

Following the Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework’s release, OP will use the guidance in the Development Framework to inform zoning changes for this part of Wisconsin Avenue NW.

 

Read the Wisconsin Avenue Development Framework on the Office of Planning website.