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Zoning commission approves Cedar Tree Academy design review, commissioners note limited outdoor play space
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Summary
The District of Columbia Zoning Commission approved final action on Cedar Tree Academy Public Charter School design review (Z.C. Case No. 24-23) by a 5-0 vote. Commissioners praised interior program improvements but repeatedly expressed concern that outdoor play space remains constrained.
The District of Columbia Zoning Commission approved final action on zoning case no. 24-23, Cedar Tree Academy Public Charter School design review in the NHR zone at Square 5861, Lot 89, by a 5-0 vote on a motion moved by Commissioner Stinson and seconded by another commissioner.
Commissioners said the project includes important interior program improvements — separate spaces for art, music and STEM, a new library and gymnasium — but repeatedly raised concerns about the quantity and quality of outdoor play space for young children. "A gym does not meet all the needs or requirements of children who need outdoor play space," Commissioner Stidham said during deliberations.
The Office of Planning had testified in support of final action, and the Department of Transportation supported the application with one condition that the applicant agreed to, the commission said on the record. The applicant submitted post-hearing exhibits addressing outdoor play and landscaping (Exhibits 25 and 25A), and ANC 8A submitted a letter of support included in the record.
Vice Chair Miller said the revised landscape plan provided "additional open green space and outdoor play space" but lamented the loss of a field-sized area on site and noted some proposed exterior play work is contingent on public-space permitting. Commissioner Wright praised the driveway configuration agreed with DDOT and the streetscape landscaping that improves the pedestrian edge.
After discussion and reminders from the chair that commissioners wanted the applicant to continue to consider additional mitigation for play space where possible, Commissioner Stinson moved for final action. Staff conducted a roll-call vote; the commission voted 5-0-0 to approve final action.
The commission asked the applicant to note commissioner comments about outdoor play as the project moves forward.
Votes at a glance: Z.C. Case No. 24-23, Cedar Tree Academy Public Charter School design review — motion for final action moved by Commissioner Stinson; outcome: approved, vote 5-0-0.
The commission record will include the applicant's post-hearing submission and the reports from Office of Planning and DDOT; staff will prepare the final order as required by zoning rules.
