Zoning Commission approves extinguishment of consolidated PUD for Square 481 (19-16)

The Zoning Commission voted 5-0 to approve the extinguishment of the consolidated PUD in Z.C. Case No. 19-16, filed by MCF WALP Phase 1 LLC for Square 481, clearing the way for the applicant to proceed with matter-of-right development.

Office of Zoning staff explained that on March 31 the applicant filed a motion requesting extinguishment of the approved consolidated PUD—citing delays from the Court of Appeals—and that the PUD would expire in November of this year. The applicant asked the commission to extinguish the PUD rather than wait for the expiration date so the project could proceed as a matter-of-right.

Commissioners described the vote as a missed opportunity—several recalled unresolved parking concerns and neighborhood church opposition during the original approval—but agreed they could not force the applicant to proceed with the previously approved PUD. Commissioner commentary noted the PUD had been appealed to the D.C. Court of Appeals and that the underlying approval was affirmed roughly three years earlier. The commission recorded the motion and took final action approving the extinguishment by roll-call vote (Stidham, Imamura, Hood, Miller, Wright), 5-0-0.

The commission asked the applicant to provide a draft order within two weeks to memorialize the final action. Office of Zoning staff also noted there was no record submission in the file from the ANC as of the time the staff report was prepared. No conditions or new relief were imposed as part of the extinguishment; the action permits the applicant to pursue matter-of-right construction subject to applicable zoning and permitting requirements.