Minerva Vision Group plans community center from abandoned church in Washington D.C.

The BZA Public Hearing held on June 25, 2025, by the DC Office of Zoning focused on two significant applications, both of which received support from various stakeholders and were ultimately approved by the board.

The first application, presented by Lloyd Jordan of Minerva Vision Group, sought a special exception to convert an abandoned church into a community center. Jordan emphasized that the project had garnered support from the Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC), the Office of Planning, and the Department of Transportation (DDOT). He noted that the community center would provide essential space for local organizations without making structural changes to the building. The board members expressed their support, highlighting the positive impact this project would have on the community. The application was approved unanimously with a vote of 4-0-1.

The second application involved a request from Henry Gonzalez and Risa Tachiki for a special exception to allow a two-story rear addition to a semi-detached dwelling at 5012 Nebraska Avenue Northwest. The proposal included extending the rear wall beyond the standard 10-foot limit, which was supported by neighboring properties. The board allowed the submission of a late sun study and proceeded to hear from the applicants' representatives, who argued that the project met the necessary criteria for relief. The board members showed no objections and moved forward with the approval process.

Overall, both applications reflect a commitment to enhancing community resources and accommodating residential development, demonstrating the board's responsiveness to local needs and stakeholder input.