We are excited to tell you that the Zoning Commission gave preliminary approval for Akridge's redevelopment proposal for 5220 Wisconsin Avenue. Final approval is expected in the coming months. We hope this is the first of many more exciting changes to come for Wisconsin Avenue!

Your emails, letters, and time spent testifying made this happen. Thank you for being involved and speaking up on behalf of our community.

In discussing the decision, a Zoning Commission member said that the project clearly fits with the city's Future Land Use Map designation for Upper Wisconsin Avenue -- a change YOU helped make last October.

However, our work isn't done. As this project evolves into a building, we will closely track the progress to ensure that Akridge's promises are delivered, including:

• Neighborhood serving retail. Akridge will work to secure one or two locally serving retail establishments on the building's ground floor.

• LEED-certification for the building. Green features will include storm water filtration, a green roof, and construction waste recycling.

• Improvements to the Pepco façade. Akridge will remove the bricks from the Pepco façade windows to showcase local art and community announcements.

• Streetscape improvements. Akridge will re-pave the sidewalk and add trees and planters to approximately 250 feet of Wisconsin Avenue, including in front of the Pepco substation.

• Two car sharing vehicles available to the public. The building will have two underground parking spaces designated for carsharing vehicles available to the public.

• Affordable housing units. Akridge will make 7% of the units available to low to moderate income households.

• Bicycling facilities. The building will have bicycle storage for residents, as well as storage and showers for retail employees who bike to work.

Again, thank you for your support and involvement.

Sincerely,
Rebecca Perring
www.Ward3Vision.org

Please Support Ward 3 Vision!

You are an essential part of Ward 3 Vision's continuing success.

Please help us continue our work by making a tax-deductible donation. Our campaign to revitalize Upper Wisconsin Avenue is a resource-intensive effort, and we rely on donations from supporters like you.

To Donate:
Please make checks payable to Ward 3 Vision
and mail to:

Ward 3 Vision
c/o Coalition for Smarter Growth
4000 Albemarle Street, NW, Suite 310
Washington, DC 20016

Questions? Please contact Rebecca.