Is the “O Street Market” Really Preserve-worthy?
28 02 2008Ok we know the long delayed O Street Market project planed in Shaw has had some very vocal critics (though mostly Board members, not residents). However one thing most everyone can agree on is that something needs to be done with the property sooner rather than later.
In the mean time, the building still stands empty and some say the market doesn’t meritt preservation. Critics say the building is not historically significant and is hampering further progress on the site. We think those folks should remember that preserving a buildings facade is also great from a sustainability perspective! No need to make new bricks or create the trash and pollution that comes from laying new brick.
Well things may be about to change! We have just gotten word that Roadside Development is close to getting a final date set on the Zoning Commission’s schedule as a follow on to the initially positive hearing held on December 10th. Looks like this project is finally going to get some traction going! The community is behind it, what in the world are the elected officials waiting for? Set a hearing date and make a final decision already so that street corner can get back to being as lively and vibrant as it is in the rendering above! [Rendering: Roadside Development]
It has a beautiful facade … I hope they perserve and include it in their redevelopment of the space. DC has some great architecture. While I’m glad to see the city developing and making good use of space, that doesn’t mean we need to destory everything from the past. The past and the present can come together at this site and it would be a win win for everyone.
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It’s already designated a landmark. The owners allowed the roof to collapse. They shouldn’t be rewarded for their negligence. There is a Demolition by Neglect clause in the DC Preservation Law.
and the owners of that building is DC… they rarely fine themselves…
i hope they keep the building… that part of town is ugLY
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