BZA approved the developer's request to build a 26-bedroom apartment between two single-family homes at 6108 13th Street

Hi Brightwood:

Yesterday was a long day. If you have not heard, the BZA voted to support the developer’s application to build a 26-bedroom apartment between two single-family homes at 6108 13th Street. Three board members voted to support the application, 1 opposed it, and 1 was absent.

Obviously, this was not the ruling the community was hoping for. Yesterday, I watched the hearing. It was open to the public to view but not to testify or submit comments. You may watch the recording of the May 1 BZA hearing by clicking here. Case #21065, 6108 13th Street, was discussed around 12 noon and ended around 12:35. 

I disagree with the reasoning and comments presented by the majority of the BZA, which centered around the fact that the proposed development is located in an RA-1 zone. This zone provides for areas predominantly developed with low-to moderate-density housing, including detached dwellings, rowhouses, and low-rise apartments. However, developments are not by right, and Special Exception elements must be met. 

The BZA majority stated that the developer tried to mitigate neighbor concerns by partially enclosing the balconies and placing a 6 ft fence around the property. The BZA mentioned that they gave "Great Weight" to the Office of Planning's report, which supported the developer's plans. Additionally, the multi-family units on Fort Stevens Drive were mentioned as a reason to allow a multi-family building on 13th Street. A BZA member stated that the developer met the intent of an RA-1 zone, that the building is in harmony with the zoning code, and the building will not have an adverse impact in an RA-1 zone. Two other BZA members agreed and shared the same/similar reasoning. 

One BZA member opposed the developer's application, stating that "RA Zones are broken and create a serious adverse impact and that approving them is a gross misuse of legislative history and intent." He went on to say, "Just because you can build a 9-unit building does not mean we (the BZA) need to approve it." He then said RA zoning needs to be fixed. The BZA Chair stated, "When you fix it, let me know." 

So what is next? There is an opportunity to appeal the BZA decision, and I am looking into the process along with the nearby and abutting neighbors. I deeply thank all Brightwood homeowners who signed the opposition petition - over 144 of you! I also thank neighbors for submitting written opposition letters to the BZA - over 35 of you! I thank those who passionately testified in front of the BZA, held planning meetings in their homes, called and sent emails to city officials, including Mayor Bowser, and kept updated and involved in preventing this development. Lastly, I thank CM Lewis George for submitting two opposition letters to the BZA and the 4A Commission for unanimously opposing the development.

I sincerely thank everyone for their hard work and dedication over the past six months. This has been a very positive team effort, and I admire and respect all of you for your dedication to Brightwood and your work to keep it a great place to live.

I will continue to send updates on the next steps.

My best,

Commissioner Kim Patterson

ANC 4A05, Brightwood Neighborhood

4A05@anc.dc.gov