Meeting about the Future of the Old Hebrew Home – “Based on the comments and questions, there seemed to be a concern about the process”

1125 Spring Road, NW

From Kathleen Crowley of ANC4C10:

“For my fellow ANC 4C folks, below is a brief summary for those who may not have been able to attend the meeting held by DC Department of General Services (DGS) regarding the future of 1125 Spring Road NW, here are a few highlights:

-1125 Spring Road NW is a capital asset with DGS and will be developed as a residential property consistent with its zoning designation. DGS plans to surplus the property to the DC Housing Authority.

-The purpose of the meeting was to solicit feedback from the community regarding the possible residential uses of the property (i.e. affordable housing, mixed use, senior).

-Based on the comments and questions, there seemed to be a concern about the process. For example, how will the feedback from the community inform the final recommendations and decisions; concern the community will not be able to review or comment on the recommendations to be presented to the city council; lack of confidence in the DC Housing Authority to move this project forward in a way consistent with the community interests (e.g., parking issues, permanent versus transient, etc.); and a concern that decisions will be made regarding this project amid changing DC leadership.

-The intended use of the property is the undecided issue. Although most would like to see the property used for senior living, it was suggested a survey be conducted to better understand the community’s overall interest about the use.

-DGS emphasized that the best way to express your interests and concerns regarding this matter is to 1) contact your DC City Council Member; and 2) contact DGS“