Zoning commission takes preliminary action to rezone Ward Memorial AME property, declines IZ Plus

On Sept. 15, 2025, the D.C. Zoning Commission voted 4–0–1 to take preliminary action to rezone three parcels owned by Ward Memorial AME Church in Ward 7 from RA‑1 to RA‑2, approving regular Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) but declining to apply IZ Plus. The commission’s vote approved the map amendment for Square 5088 (Lots 147 and 852) and Square 5987 (Lot 74) and noted the case will return for a second vote.

The change would double the site’s permitted residential density and increase the maximum floor‑area ratio (FAR) and height limits the commission discussed. Eric Dubeir, attorney for the applicant from Cozen O’Connor, and Pastor Rivers of Ward Memorial AME Church described the congregation’s long history on the site and said the rezoning would allow the church to pursue affordable, community‑serving housing, including “grand family” units and a small number of condominiums for local ownership. Dubeir said the church owns the property free of liens or mortgages and that the rezoning would give the congregation flexibility for future financing and design choices.

The proposal and the commission’s deliberations focused on three central issues: whether the rezoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, whether IZ Plus should apply, and how the church’s future development could be compatible with nearby…