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Commission approves Phase 1 infrastructure plan for Lake Forest redevelopment; demolition recycling anticipated
Summary
The Planning Commission unanimously approved SP-10031-2025, clearing Phase 1 infrastructure work at the former Lake Forest Mall site (701 Russell Ave). The applicant described ongoing demolition and plans to reuse crushed concrete and relocate an 84‑inch storm pipe.
The Gaithersburg Planning Commission on July 15 unanimously approved final site plan SP-10031-2025, the Phase 1 infrastructure site plan for the Lake Forest redevelopment at 701 Russell Avenue (the former Lake Forest Mall).
Matthew Gordon, attorney for the applicant Lake Forest Development LLC, said the infrastructure plan is the first of several site‑plan filings. "If you driven by there, the mall's gone," he told the commission as Gary Unterberg of Rogers Consulting walked commissioners through the engineering and staging for the multi‑phase redevelopment.
Unterberg described the scope of the work for the approximately 94‑acre site and said about 45 acres are shown in the current plan with "roughly little less than 20 acres of slab and foundation that's still to be removed." He said the permit covers reshaping of the on‑site ponds, removal or filling of Pond 3 (the future transit station location) and relocation of an existing 84‑inch storm drain pipe. "There is an 84 inch, storm drain pipe which is that's 7 feet in diameter," Unterberg said, noting the pipe will be removed and relocated to open the western edge of the site for redevelopment.
Commissioners asked about phasing and pedestrian impacts; Unterberg said roughly six months of grading are expected before roads are built, perimeter fencing and sidewalk closures will occur, and traffic control plans will be detailed in later submissions and permits. When asked about disposing of demolition concrete and pipe, he said much of the concrete and foundations will be crushed on site and reused for future road beds; some elements may be recycled or crushed in place.
Jasmine Forbes of planning staff recommended approval with four conditions. A committee member moved to grant final site plan approval consistent with staff findings; the commission approved the motion by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
Gary Unterberg said additional infrastructure sets and streetscape work will return to the commission in subsequent filings; the current approval advances the pipeline of site plans needed to begin the larger redevelopment program.
