ANC Report: ‘Grave Doubts’ About DC Water Project

At its May 31 meeting, Ron Lewis, chairman of the Georgetown-Burleigh-Hillandale Advisory Neighborhood Commision 2E, called for a halt to DC Water’s proposed remedies to sewerage overflow into the Potomac River. He argued with DC Water representative Carlton Ray over actual combined sewer overflows (CSOs) for 2015: 8 million gallons then versus 40 million in the future. Lewis’s resolution expressed “grave doubts” about the project. The D.C. Clean Rivers Project — to be undertaken by DC Water — is required by law as specified by the Environmental Protection Agency. Lewis also questioned the agency’s Green Infrastructure Program.

Other discussions, summarized below, involved zoning issues.

• Development of 2715 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (EastBanc): Anthony Lanier spoke about the new apartment building where a gas station now stands. Its entrance will face east toward Rock Creek Park and allow a driveway and sidewalk between M Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. He is seeking higher density. No parking will be available. Lanier cited the Four Seasons Hotel, across the street, as a convenient place for tenants to park.

• Reconstruction of hotel at 3000 M St. NW (Thor Equity): Plans have been approved by the Old Georgetown Board. Rules for the roof terrace as well as parking and loading times have been approved. Owners look to make part of 30th Street two-way to allow easy access to the hotel driveway.

• Medstar Georgetown University Hospital Surgical Pavilion: Two plans for more green space met with approval from the ANC.

Peet’s Coffee at 3299 M St. NW: Operating hours were approved.

• Renovation of house at 3420 P St. NW: While opposed by a few neighbors, the one-story addition (with elimination of one garage space) is moving ahead.