The DC Zoning Commission is considering a proposal from a tenants’ association and their non-profit partner to replace their aging 36-unit rental apartment building with a new, 4-story 100% affordable, accessible 80-unit building.

The new building would be modestly larger than the current building; however, some neighbors are still objecting despite a major downsizing. The current proposal is a significant compromise from the originally proposed 110-unit building, with the new proposal offering 30 fewer affordable homes. 

Tell the Zoning Commission to approve this modest new building!

Here are some of the benefits of this project: 

• Prevention of displacement of residents, a majority of whom are Black and/or Hispanic
• Increase in affordable housing, and deeply affordable housing
• Increase in housing around a major transit hub – Takoma Metro and bus facilities
• Compatible infill redevelopment that is in-scale with the neighborhood and the historic district.
• Housing that makes aging-in-place possible by converting an obsolete, deteriorating walkup apartment building into an accessible, elevator-served building with amenities for all ages
• Expansion of permanent supportive housing, with on-site service provision
• Modernized green building features and stormwater management
• A pedestrian-friendly street-facing facade that supports a more pleasant walking route to the Metro station, encouraging more transit use and walking. 

Take action to support affordable housing & prevent displacement 

This site, located at 7050 Eastern Ave. NW, is ideal for increased housing opportunities given its proximity to major transit lines, and walk/bicycle access to local services. Further erosion of this project would jeopardize the feasibility of the project and puts Elm Gardens residents at risk of displacement.