ANC Ponders Traffic Improvements, Weighs in on Residential and Commercial Plans

While the Georgetown Advisory Neighborhood Commission spent much of its time on proposed food truck regulations and updated plans for Tudor place, commissioners also considered new traffic-related proposals and several development items. Check back later today for stories on Tudor Place and food trucks.

Traffic Control for M Street

Commissioner Bill Starrels, with support from fellow commissioners, requested that the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) consider additional traffic management measures on M Street at Wisconsin Avenue and at the Key Bridge during peak traffic. 

If DDOT has the funds, Starrels asked that the agency consider sending traffic control officers to both intersections for the weekend afternoons and evening rush hour.

Another suggestion, should monies be available in the near or not-so-near future, was that DDOT install red light cameras to catch traffic violations at those intersections.

Right Turn Arrow at M Street

Starrels, on behalf of the commission, requested that DDOT "immediately" restore the right turn arrow at M Street and Wisconsin Avenue.

The arrow would allow eastbound traffic to turn right and travel southbound on Wisconsin Ave. during a specific cycle. The right turn arrow was previously at the intersection, but removed for "unknown" reasons when DDOT created a new .

Malmaison 3401 Water St., NW

The was before the commission, seeking review of exterior changes to garage doors, lighting and other permit items. Malmaison is coming to Water Street thanks to the same family that runs and Napoleon. The operation will focus on desserts, but will have a bar as well.

The ANC was receptive to proposals to improve the facade and brighten up that stretch under the Whitehurst Freeway. According to the owner, who attended the meeting, they are "shooting for July" as an opening date, but realistically think August will be more likely.

() Condo Design at 3212 Grace St., NW

Plans for the lot at the corner of Grace Street and Cecil Place, which currently houses a parking lot, once again fell short of the ANC's and neighbors standards.

The latest plans, under a new architect, call for seven two-bedroom units with a main entrance off of Grace Street.

"There have been two quasi-similar condo projects that have bit the dust on the same site," said Commissioner Bill Starrels as he detailed the ANC's objections to the design.

Much like previous plans, neighbors and the ANC objected to the height, density and to specific design elements like proposed balcony projections. Additionally, both neighbors and Starrels chided the developers for not reaching out to neighbors about the design.

One Cecil Place neighbor, Michele Jacobson, called the design, " Huge, bulky and imposing."

The plan did not receive ANC approval, but it is scheduled to go before the OGB Thursday, March 1.

Noodles & Company 1815 Wisconsin Ave., NW

The fast food chain received approval for its new restaurant at the former site of Einstein Bagels next to the Social Safeway. Approval included a rooftop deck and a liquor license.

Caveats included:

1. Dine-in customers must be served with non-disposable plates and utensils;
2. Hours of operation will not exceed 10 a.m. to 10 p.m weekdays and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
3. The restaurant, to include the roof deck, cannot produce sounds audible beyond property line.
4. No more than 35 percent of customers may be from carry-out orders.