Commission sets down DGS plan for 407-bed shelter at 1201 New York Ave NE as contested case

The Zoning Commission voted 4 to 0, with one member absent, to set down for hearing a consolidated planned unit development and map amendment filed by the D.C. Department of General Services (DGS) to redevelop the eastern portion of 1201 New York Avenue NE with a 407‑bed emergency men’s shelter.

The Office of Planning recommended setting down the case. An OP representative described the proposal as a consolidated PUD and map amendment from RF‑1 to MU‑9 for Parcel 129, Lot 115, and said the redevelopment would include a 407‑bed shelter plus on‑site wraparound services intended to support occupants’ transitions to permanent housing. OP recommended flexibility to allow all on‑site parking spaces to be compact and to provide flexibility in loading berth sizes. OP said no development is currently proposed for the western portion of the site, which is occupied by the District’s animal shelter and would require relocation if the project advances.

Commissioners asked OP and the applicant to address several issues in the prehearing submissions and at the public hearing. Vice Chair Miller pointed out a…