BZA waives three long‑term bicycle spaces for new Fort Davis Community Center; OP cites surplus short‑term bike parking

June 11, 2025 — The Board of Zoning Adjustments approved a special exception to waive three long‑term bicycle‑parking spaces for the District Department of Parks and Recreation’s new Fort Davis Community Center project at 1440 First St SE.

Meredith Moldenhauer, counsel for the Department of General Services and DPR, said the project replaces an old, inaccessible center with a new two‑story building that includes a gym, multi‑purpose rooms, a commercial teaching kitchen, and expanded outdoor courts and play areas. The design team showed a range of short‑term bike parking on multiple sides of the building and locker/shower facilities for staff and visitors.

Crystal Myers of the Office of Planning recommended approval, noting the project provides 14 short‑term bicycle spaces while only nine are required, and that a Capital Bikeshare station sits adjacent to the site. “The office of planning is in support of this case, especially in light of the significant amount of short term bike parking being provided,” Myers told the board.

Applicant representatives emphasized site constraints, including steep topography and programmatic demands for interior community space; they argued that installing multiple long‑term secure bike lockers would reduce needed programming or public amenities. The project team also described ongoing community outreach and youth engagement during design.

The board voted 4‑0‑1 to approve the special exception (Subtitle C §807.2 relief from long‑term bicycle parking requirements). The board removed a proposed DDOT precondition and noted the applicant will coordinate any public‑space details during permitting.

With the approval, DPR may proceed to final permitting and construction coordination. The board’s vote recorded the motion as 4 to 0 to 1 in favor.