
Image courtesy of PT Blooms Development
PT Blooms Development has submitted an application to build a five-story multifamily unit at 805-823 N. Columbus St.
Currently, the 0.57 site is made up of empty lots and a parking lot, which was formerly occupied by townhouses that were torn down by the 1990s. It is surrounded in neighboring blocks by two and three story townhomes, and is directly adjacent to the five-story Towne Hotel on North Washington Street, which is currently under construction.
In a project dubbed the ‘Columbus Flats,’ the developer proposes building 78 one, two and three-bedroom units, with eight of those units set-aside for affordable housing. The application submitted will require a change in zoning from residential townhouse use to commercial, residential and mixed-use which would allow for the increase in density.
The proposed project requests a reduction of four spaces on parking requirements for the building to create a 69-space below-grade parking garage. There would also be a slight reduction in tree canopy (crown) coverage but a slight increase in the required open space on the site.
The building would meet Green Building standards and would provide streetscape improvements like sidewalks, plants and streetlights. The project would contribute to a number of City funds and public art.
During a second review of the building design, the Board of Architectural Review (BAR) was generally in favor of the building, which is meant to reflect the character of the nearby Parker-Gray neighborhood. It consists of three stories along the façade of the building with heights reaching five stories towards the middle of the site in the direction of North Washington Street. The three story portions “will be constructed of masonry with punched openings and residential bay spacings. Individual entries with canopies will provide direct access to the street from several units,” according to a report created by City staff. The taller portions of the building will have a more modern style with light colored masonry and metal accents.
Opponents to the project have concerns about the size of the project in relation to nearby townhouses, potential street parking problems and the fact that above-grade terraces and balconies are considered part of the required open space.
City staff and the Planning Commission recommend approval of the project, stating that it meets the goals of the Braddock Road Metro Station Small Area Plan and the Braddock Metro Neighborhood Plan to increase density, affordable housing and access to public transportation.
City Council will consider the application at their upcoming Oct. 16 meeting.

Image courtesy of the City of Alexandria