Please remain humble. You don't have a crystal ball either. You didn't "predict" that there is a glut of residential in downtown Silver Spring. For all you know, if banks were still lending money, people would still be buying in downtown Silver Spring at the same rate as before. As of right now, lenders are holding back, and people are holding back because they think that prices will fall enough for them to buy in the future. This happened across the country due to economic conditions you could never have foreseen. When I spoke with Foulger-Pratt, a few months ago, they still had an office portion to the private development, though they may change their minds in the end again (seeing as though you nor I have a crystal ball, and because no private portion has even been officially proposed yet!). The first we ever heard of the project included an office portion, as well. The way you stated it, it seems like you think your "suggestion" was actually followed by Foulger-Pratt. However, they make their own decisions based on whether it makes business sense and couldn't care less what anyone, even the Planning Department, would like to see. The reason I am so confident that they will build there eventually is because to them, this was a long-term commitment and a long-term business plan. They have found enormous success in downtown Silver Spring, are familiar with it, and are reaping huge benefits from their previous risky undertakings (you referenced the Silver Spring Metro Center project, which shows their long-term commitment--they waited 12 years to follow the exact same plans that they had before). This particular project has so much less risk associated with it (when the economy recovers enough), that it wouldn't make sense not to build there. If for some reason this particular developer makes a bad business decision elsewhere and is forced to sell their investment in the WMATA air rights, then another developer, I'm sure, would step in to buy the rights and develop the property regardless.

I also understand the market, being in the real estate investment/development business, and coming from that point of view. As you are simply passionate about development in Silver Spring, I don't get the impression that you have studied real estate finance or development, or that you work in real estate, or that you understand really what makes business sense. Simply put, you would want to wait until the public portion is finished because the economy is in the shitter and it makes no sense to delay building the public portion just because you can't build the private portion yet in a financially feasible manner.

Here we go again, I'm just not going to get into it with you, I'm above your B.S. rants. I've realized you're beneath me, your standards are too low for me and I'm simply not on that level. I'm trying to aim for better because I understand this is a great place that has great potential to be so much more. You settle for what they give you, that's good for you but not good for me.

I will say that for someone who's so liberal minded you sure have a hard time respecting others opinions. Calm down, your post reads like you're fuming mad.

Can we at least have a civilized argument around the issue at hand instead of who has the bigger credentials?

Please understand the difference between predicting an event and saying it will happen like you did. Economist make predictions, the county makes growth predictions, businesses make revenue predictions, in fact it's critical to take the data that we have and do so because it's our best chance at eliminating mistakes/risk and solving problems.

I'm not going to go down a list of my experience and degrees to prove anything to you. I will say that I have worked in the Real Estate market.

I have also participated in planning meetings, made several testimonials in front of the planning board and County Council, joined several community groups and know and met with political figures, developers, businesses and activists personally. Which I'm pretty sure is more than you have done.

Ok, now you're splitting hairs, especially for someone who admires highrises. You could argue it all day, but a highrise is a highrise. There are shorter highrises and there are extremely tall highrises. A 14-story building next to the Empire State Building is still a highrise, it's just got some huge competition.

Where are the proposals? I checked the Montgomery County Planning website's development section and found the proposals from 1996 and 1997 that resulted in the development that sits there currently, but have seen no other proposals.

OK well... most people view D.C. proper as a city of mid-rises. Downtown D.C. has the third largest office market in the country but it's often compared to the likes of historical Paris instead of a high-rise enclave like New York.

Now generally speaking, the typical building in downtown D.C. ranges from 120 - 150 ft maybe more, maybe less. Recent additions to Silver Spring through an amendment hit a ceiling at 143'ft in most places through optional method of development, if not then it's 125'ft max. if it's in fenton village typically 60-90ft. United Therapeutics headquarters is 90'ft. 100'ft max with utilities.

Now if the average Silver Spring building is lower or equal to the average D.C. building, then what's in Silver Spring? Are they still highrises?

I guess we are both "splitting hairs", but that's my point and problem, the buildings in Silver Spring shouldn't be at a height where we have to question if they're highrises or not. Further more at this height you're not impressing anybody, more like you're confused at what you want to be. An in-between place is no place or an urban area.

You haven't stated why you're content with the current height limits. I could list at least five reasons why they should be increased. I have not met one planner or county council member or NIMBY resident that can give me a good answer as to why 143'ft and 200'ft must be the limits.

Furthermore, why are increased heights exceptable in White flint/North Bethesda, Rosslyn and even parts of Prince George's County.

What is the County/Plannning's endgame?

Here we go again, I'm just not going to get into it with you, I'm above your B.S. rants. I've realized you're beneath me, your standards are too low for me and I'm simply not on that level. I'm trying to aim for better because I understand this is a great place that has great potential to be so much more. You settle for what they give you, that's good for you but not good for me.

I don't think asking you to remain humble or to stop acting as though you know every point of view is wrong. I come at this blog from the point of view within the real estate industry, as well as with some government planning experience, and like to also consider myself somewhat of a realist. Once in a while I'd like you to actually acknowledge the fact that I may have something useful to add instead of trying to debunk my explanations simply because they are not convenient for you to accept. I wouldn't think I'd have to say it, but until you've worked within the industry or for a planning commission, in the backrooms, it is sometimes difficult to understand the reasoning behind decisions made. Before I worked in the industry, I had a completely different point of view (one that was perhaps a bit naive and idealist). I certainly respect your passion (as I have mentioned before), and your concentration on finding out what development are happening in Silver Spring. However, I also don't think anyone here would think I'm on a rant or angry (95% of my post was concerning the real estate market, or a specific project), nor have I thrown out any personal insults--if you look back at my two previous posts, I don't think you can find one place where I name-called. To be honest, you have been on my ignore list for quite a while, but every now and then I'm curious as to what you will say about a certain subject. Sometimes it is dead wrong IMO so I will put in my two cents, and I should not be attacked for it, nor should you be personally offended by an opposing few, or should you attempt to personally offend me. All I try to do is explain, explain, explain, and sometimes those explanations do not match up to what you think reality to be. I can be somewhat terse, at times, but I do not insult, as you do. You do come off as though you assume way too much, especially about me personally, and like to think you know all, especially about Silver Spring. A reality check may be necessary, but I don't think you're going to get one here.

OK well... most people view D.C. proper as a city of mid-rises. Downtown D.C. has the third largest office market in the country but it's often compared to the likes of historical Paris instead of a high-rise enclave like New York.

Now generally speaking, the typical building in downtown D.C. ranges from 120 - 150 ft maybe more, maybe less. Recent additions to Silver Spring through an amendment hit a ceiling at 143'ft in most places through optional method of development, if not then it's 125'ft max. if it's in fenton village typically 60-90ft. United Therapeutics headquarters is 90'ft. 100'ft max with utilities.

Now if the average Silver Spring building is lower or equal to the average D.C. building, then what's in Silver Spring? Are they still highrises?

I guess we are both "splitting hairs", but that's my point and problem, the buildings in Silver Spring shouldn't be at a height where we have to question if they're highrises or not. Further more at this height you're not impressing anybody, more like you're confused at what you want to be. An in-between place is no place or an urban area.

You haven't stated why you're content with the current height limits. I could list at least five reasons why they should be increased. I have not met one planner or county council member or NIMBY resident that can give me a good answer as to why 143'ft and 200'ft must be the limits.

Furthermore, why are increased heights exceptable in White flint/North Bethesda, Rosslyn and even parts of Prince George's County.

What is the County/Plannning's endgame?

You're the only one questioning their highrise status right now. I'm actually "combining hairs" by not getting so specific as to define away Silver Spring's highrises. I also didn't say I was content with anything. I haven't said a word in these recent posts about my opinion on building height limits, though I have posted them previously, and I think everyone on this blog feels the same way about them so I won't get into it. However, I will say that I don't think anyone is confused by DC's genuine urban density, despite its height limit, and I don't think anyone is confused by downtown Silver Spring's either. If we start defining urban spaces and apparent density by the heights of their buildings, then we lose sight of reality. The most urban and dense spaces of most of our cities are not where their tallest buildings reside. They are in the Adams Morgans, the Greenwich Villages, the South Phillies, the Back Bays, and the Tenderloins--and potentially our Fenton Villages, our Ripley Districts, and our South Silver Springs (where, yes, there are a few taller buildings). I love tall buildings, but our cities would be nothing without these neighborhoods.

I'm still curious about those office building proposals for the Rite Aid site.

Downtown D.C. has the third largest office market in the country

Whats your source. I heard DC was second behind NY City.

I come at this blog from the point of view within the real estate industry, as well as with some government planning experience, and like to also consider myself somewhat of a realist.

Note, this is supposed to be an open forum for general discussion, not a personal blog for anyone. Although sometimes people act like they think they should own the place. It's still a great source of information when we can stay out of the personal arguments. Some people are pretty opinionated, which is fine, but I think everyone (including me) could at times stand to be a little less condescending.

guys, this thread is getting way outta' hand.:ohno:

Whats your source. I heard DC was second behind NY City.

Chicago Loop has 10-20 million more square feet of office space. Midtown of course has 3-4 times as much.

I still want SS to aspire to what Bethesda keeps achieving, in terms of the urban aesthetic of contemporary quality and not quantity/kitsch.

I don't think asking you to remain humble or to stop acting as though you know every point of view is wrong. I come at this blog from the point of view within the real estate industry, as well as with some government planning experience, and like to also consider myself somewhat of a realist. Once in a while I'd like you to actually acknowledge the fact that I may have something useful to add instead of trying to debunk my explanations simply because they are not convenient for you to accept. I wouldn't think I'd have to say it, but until you've worked within the industry or for a planning commission, in the backrooms, it is sometimes difficult to understand the reasoning behind decisions made. Before I worked in the industry, I had a completely different point of view (one that was perhaps a bit naive and idealist). I certainly respect your passion (as I have mentioned before), and your concentration on finding out what development are happening in Silver Spring. However, I also don't think anyone here would think I'm on a rant or angry (95% of my post was concerning the real estate market, or a specific project), nor have I thrown out any personal insults--if you look back at my two previous posts, I don't think you can find one place where I name-called. To be honest, you have been on my ignore list for quite a while, but every now and then I'm curious as to what you will say about a certain subject. Sometimes it is dead wrong IMO so I will put in my two cents, and I should not be attacked for it, nor should you be personally offended by an opposing few, or should you attempt to personally offend me. All I try to do is explain, explain, explain, and sometimes those explanations do not match up to what you think reality to be. I can be somewhat terse, at times, but I do not insult, as you do. You do come off as though you assume way too much, especially about me personally, and like to think you know all, especially about Silver Spring. A reality check may be necessary, but I don't think you're going to get one here.

So basically, if you don't like what I'm saying, you will attack my credentials instead of discussing the issue at hand, pretty petty and low IMO and just as pathetic as name calling.

I just find it amazing how intolerant people are on this forum of others opinions and it's even more puzzling despite their liberal and democratic stance.

I don't know from what or from whom you get your source of information where you all the sudden know my life experience from start to finish but you better change sources. Did you gather all you know from an internet forum, my blog?

Sorry but I'm entitled to my own opinion and you are not going to stop me from saying and doing what I want to do.

Why don't you point out where you've found I'm "wrong", instead of you're very vague statements without one example? Could it be that I'm "wrong" or did I state my own opinion which you happen to disagree with cause it's not the conventional thinking you're used to? Unlike you I'm not saying something will happen without having the confirmation and data to back it up. The rest is arguable.

Please do yourself a favor and keep the ignore filter on permanently from now on.

You're the only one questioning their highrise status right now. I'm actually "combining hairs" by not getting so specific as to define away Silver Spring's highrises. I also didn't say I was content with anything. I haven't said a word in these recent posts about my opinion on building height limits, though I have posted them previously, and I think everyone on this blog feels the same way about them so I won't get into it. However, I will say that I don't think anyone is confused by DC's genuine urban density, despite its height limit, and I don't think anyone is confused by downtown Silver Spring's either. If we start defining urban spaces and apparent density by the heights of their buildings, then we lose sight of reality. The most urban and dense spaces of most of our cities are not where their tallest buildings reside. They are in the Adams Morgans, the Greenwich Villages, the South Phillies, the Back Bays, and the Tenderloins--and potentially our Fenton Villages, our Ripley Districts, and our South Silver Springs (where, yes, there are a few taller buildings). I love tall buildings, but our cities would be nothing without these neighborhoods.

I'm still curious about those office building proposals for the Rite Aid site.

Read above.

Whats your source. I heard DC was second behind NY City.

I'll send you a PM

Ooh! Ooh! Send me an AM! :lol:

I wish Silver Spring did fireworks on the 4th in the downtown area.

Silver Springer or Pennster,

Any updates on Live Nation?? I have come up empty on the net.

I went t Silver Spring the other day, and theres a new building going up called "The Silver Spring Civic Center" or something like that! It's directly across the road from the Majetic Movie Theater...

how tall is it?

Its only a few floors. It's not going to be above the height of the parking garage across the street. But that's okay, I think that it'll provide a lot of activities and whatnot that will really help make that area really attractive to people.

Yeah it's not a high-rise or anything! sovman do you know what kind of activities will be going on inside the building?

how tall is it?

20'...lol

Yeah it's not a high-rise or anything! sovman do you know what kind of activities will be going on inside the building?

To my knowledge, they're going to landscape the area in front of it so that it's a plaza that can be used for concerts and performances. The interior of the building is supposed to have room for performances, meetings, art galleries, things like that.

It's about 50 feet tall actually. It's quite dramatic.

It is. I think it'll look really cool once it's finished... the front is supposed to be one big glass wall, right?

I heard on WTOP this morning that the toll on the ICC during peak hours was
going to be set at $2. I thought it would be more.

I heard on WTOP this morning that the toll on the ICC during peak hours was
going to be set at $2. I thought it would be more.

They released tentative toll rates. I think it's slightly more than that, but it depends on where you enter and where you exit. They're tolling it by mileage, I think.

They released tentative toll rates. I think it's slightly more than that, but it depends on where you enter and where you exit. They're tolling it by mileage, I think.

No, thats not what the reporter on WTOP reported...although they could have their facts wrong. The report was that the state is thinking the 2 dollar
range during peak is the target. That is a far cry from the 5 dollar range that I thought would set.

The Gazette (http://www.gazette.net/stories/09242009/montnew170918_32543.shtml) reported they're looking at $0.25 - $0.30 per mile during peak hours and 5 cents less during non peak hours meaning if you went the whole length of the road you'd pay about $3.5 dollars. The article also says that the minimum toll length will be 3 miles.

No, thats not what the reporter on WTOP reported...although they could have their facts wrong. The report was that the state is thinking the 2 dollar
range during peak is the target. That is a far cry from the 5 dollar range that I thought would set.

$2.00 is the target toll for the average trip. That doesn't mean a flat rate. The formula is $0.25-$0.35 per mile, times an average trip length of 6.6 miles, to give an average toll of about $2.00. See here:

http://www.wtop.com/?nid=30&sid=1769474

I wish they would improve the security in downtown SS. It seems to be getting worse.http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/02/AR2009110203099.html?hpid=newswell

I wish they would improve the security in downtown SS. It seems to be getting worse.http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/02/AR2009110203099.html?hpid=newswell

Amen brother!!

http://www.lessardgroup.com/GetImage.aspx?photoid=329

Is this the current Ripley Street rendering???

Project Location
Silver Spring, Maryland
Ripley Street is a 17 story residential building housing 318 apartments for a total of 305,293 sq. ft. on 1.16 acres. 7,460 ft of retail is found on the first floors of the building while 328 spaces are found in the below-grade parking.

Yup looks like it. Here's the staff memo to the planning board when that was approved (from the agenda archives on the mncppc website)
http://www.montgomeryplanningboard.org/agenda/2008/documents/20080703_ripley_street_print.pdf

Greater Greater Washington (http://greatergreaterwashington.org/post.cgi?id=4220) blog posted last week some neat renderings of the development surrounding the Silver Spring transit center (currently under construction)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2656/4153505042_17bf1b09de.jpgGreater Greater Washington (http://greatergreaterwashington.org/post.cgi?id=4220) blog posted last week some neat renderings of the development surrounding the Silver Spring transit center (currently under construction)

^^ Niccceeee

Filmore Music Hall, Coming soon to Silver Spring. This could be HUGE boost to Silver Spring's revitalization. I don't know about you guys, but I see Silver Spring as the DC area's main arts and culture hub in the near future (at least vastly more so then now). If MoCo can attract more companies like, Discovery, AFI, and now Live Nation to Silver Spring I think it's very possible.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/13/AR2009111303898.html

Filmore Music Hall, Coming soon to Silver Spring. This could be HUGE boost to Silver Spring's revitalization. I don't know about you guys, but I see Silver Spring as the DC area's main arts and culture hub in the near future (at least vastly more so then now). If MoCo can attract more companies like, Discovery, AFI, and now Live Nation to Silver Spring I think it's very possible.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/13/AR2009111303898.html

I think the entire area is becoming a hub that will have little arts districts that are spread out. I can imagine downtown Silver Spring, U Street, Rt. 1 from the Arts District in Hyattsville with Busboys and Poets to East Campus in College Park with the Birchmere and Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center on Campus.

Though the FIllmore looks to get started before the Birchmere.

I think it'd be nice to have some downtown cultural fairs once that's done and once they finish the civic center.

Fillmore to possibly open at the end of next year... link (http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2010/01/fillmore-sounds-like-music-to-silver.html)

As I drove by Falkland North today I noticed the mixed use sign has a meeting
scheduled for tonight concerning the property. We should hear something tomorrow or the next day.

I will have my fingers crossed that we get some good news...

As I drove by Falkland North today I noticed the mixed use sign has a meeting
scheduled for tonight concerning the property. We should hear something tomorrow or the next day.

I will have my fingers crossed that we get some good news...

The property next to it (the tiny shopping center with the fed ex kinkos) is scheduled to be redeveloped into 180,000 sq ft of office and 24,000 sq ft retail, with a right of way given for the Purple Line. They're going to the planning board tomorrow.

Staff memo here (http://www.montgomeryplanningboard.org/agenda/2010/documents/20100318_Metro_Plaza_Silver_Spring.pdf)

http://www.homeproperties.com/falkland/FalklandNorth.pdf

I have never seen these renderings before. I am impressed with the design, however I wish we had more height...

http://www.homeproperties.com/falkland/FalklandNorth.pdf

I have never seen these renderings before. I am impressed with the design, however I wish we had more height...

Those are the old renderings. They've switched from building one tall residential tower (three connected towers that curve around the edge of the property) in a big superblock a la Grosvenor Park style and are switching to more of a grid street (pedestrian oriented) with many buildings. The ones fronting East West will be shorter (to blend in with Falklands to the south) and they'll gradually increase in height as they head northwards. Renderings for what the planning staff suggested they do instead can be found here (http://www.justupthepike.com/2010/02/shouldnt-we-preserve-future-too.html) (the last picture). There's an article in The Gazette (http://www.gazette.net/stories/02102010/silvnew164608_32554.php) about it. Home Properties will be returning with their new plan soon, and it'll reflect the planning department's suggested layout instead of what they originally wanted to build.

*edit* Just found this site plan of the original proposed layout. Link (http://www.silverspringpenguin.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/fc_layout.jpg) ... It reminds me of The Grand and The Wisconsin in White Flint... big massive residential tower, but if you don't live there, you can't get in. By making a grid layout and having retail, it's more inviting for everyone, and there's a lot more potential to have restaurants and interesting shops there.

Those are the old renderings. They've switched from building one tall residential tower (three connected towers that curve around the edge of the property) in a big superblock a la Grosvenor Park style and are switching to more of a grid street (pedestrian oriented) with many buildings. The ones fronting East West will be shorter (to blend in with Falklands to the south) and they'll gradually increase in height as they head northwards. Renderings for what the planning staff suggested they do instead can be found here (http://www.justupthepike.com/2010/02/shouldnt-we-preserve-future-too.html) (the last picture). There's an article in The Gazette (http://www.gazette.net/stories/02102010/silvnew164608_32554.php) about it. Home Properties will be returning with their new plan soon, and it'll reflect the planning department's suggested layout instead of what they originally wanted to build.

*edit* Just found this site plan of the original proposed layout. Link (http://www.silverspringpenguin.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/fc_layout.jpg) ... It reminds me of The Grand and The Wisconsin in White Flint... big massive residential tower, but if you don't live there, you can't get in. By making a grid layout and having retail, it's more inviting for everyone, and there's a lot more potential to have restaurants and interesting shops there.

When do you think this project will start construction?

Has Silver Springer given up here?? Haven't seen bambo stick aka Pennster either.

In a tragic twist, the same Silver Spring house where Washington, D.C., school principal Brian Betts was found dead Thursday is the same location of a murder in 2002. Betts did not know about the murder when he moved in, but after he learned of the house's history, his realtor, Therese Cox, had an exorcism performed, she said Tuesday.

On Aug. 6, 2002, at random, Anthony Quintin Kelly, of Washington, D.C., now 46, shot and killed 47-year-old George Russell and his 9-year-old daughter Erika Smith at 9337 Columbia Boulevard in Silver Spring. In that incident, Kelly broke into a rear window of the home wearing a wig and a beard, pistol-whipped and shot the girl once in her bedroom, then fired eight rounds into Russell as he ran toward his screaming daughter.

He was arrested about a month later and in 2008 was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Cox, who is a Washington, D.C., realtor for Long and Foster, helped Betts buy the two-floor, 1,400-square-foot brick home in 2003 for $324,000, according to public records. Not only did Betts not know about the property's history, but Cox said she didn't either.

"When we went to settle, and he moved in the next day, a neighbor came over and told him," said Cox, who says realtors are not required to disclose past history about a house prior to a sale unless a prospective buyer asks. "He called me in hysterics and said he couldn't live there, it was horrible."

To appease Betts, Cox, who says she is very religious, enlisted two ministers to perform an exorcism on the home. From that point on, Betts had little trepidation about living in the home. Cox and Betts eventually became friends — she also helped Betts sell his D.C. home — and Cox attended parties and barbecues at the Silver Spring house. When Betts bought the Columbia Boulevard home, it was in poor condition, but he renovated the kitchen and dining area and added a deck in the backyard.

When Cox heard that Betts was found dead in that same home Thursday, a victim of at least one gunshot wound in an incident police are investigating as a homicide, she was personally devastated by the news. But professionally, selling homes with sketchy pasts often comes with the territory for realtors, she said.

"It's an act of God," said Cox. "It's out of our control."

Betts' next door neighbor Dan Kelly said he and his wife were home when both Russell and Betts' deaths occurred, but they never heard shouting or gunshots in either incident.

"I feel really bad that this happened to really good people," Dan Kelly said.

Betts often barbecued for friends and colleagues, Kelly said. They talked and became neighborhood friends to the extent that Betts would let Kelly know if he was going out of town.

But Betts lived alone and mostly kept to himself, said Janine Moreno, who lives directly across the street from Betts.

"It's kind of scary," she said. "It makes you wonder if it could have happened to even ourselves."

While acknowledging that the two incidents are unrelated, the Woodside Park Civic Association will meet to discuss any increased safety measures to enact in the wake of Betts' death, said Woodside Park's safety committee chair, Connie Raab. The quiet, wooded area of single-family homes has a neighborhood-watch program and last summer had considered a more serious and attentive "citizens on patrol" program, where residents actually patrol the neighborhood's streets. Raab said that option will be "back on the table."

Kelly said his wife last saw Betts Wednesday evening, when she said he was barbecuing in his backyard. Tall fences separate neighborhood backyards, and she did not see if Betts was alone or had company, he said.

Montgomery County Police Spokesman Capt. Paul Starks said Betts was alive up until 11:30 p.m. April 14, information gained through interviewing neighbors.

Cox also has the unwanted distinction of selling another of the District's most infamous homes. In April 2005, she sold a Dupont Circle home on Swann Street to Joseph Price and Victor Zaborsky. On Aug. 2, 2006, Robert Wone, who was visiting his friends Price and Zaborsky and staying at the home, was stabbed to death in a bizarre, gruesome killing.

Price and Zaborsky, along with housemate Dylan Ward, have been charged with conspiracy, obstruction of justice and tampering charges in connection with the death. They are currently awaiting trial and maintain their innocence.

That high-profile case was well-known when Cox again attempted to sell the house after the three men moved out in 2008, but she sold it anyway, for nearly $1.5 million, $200,000 more than she had sold it for to Price and Zaborsky, according to public records.

Cox said there's no telling who will be the realtor responsible for selling Betts's home.

"We move on," Cox said. "Almost any house you look at — especially in Washington, D.C. — how many people do you think have died in any of these houses?"

http://www.gazette.net/stories/04212010/silvnew185151_32548.php

That's some spooky shit to say the least.

http://livemusicss.com/vision.html

Pretty cool renderings on the website. Click on Fillmore Development.

well come to vietnam http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1204299

No activity in SS since March?

No activity in SS since March?


Plenty of activity in SS, just not showing up on this board...

Plenty of activity in SS, just not showing up on this board...

Yeah, stuff is happening. The new transit center with the hotel/office/apartments (I forget) is currently being built... dunno when it's slated to be finished though.

No activity in SS since March?

Yeah, stuff is happening. The new transit center with the hotel/office/apartments (I forget) is currently being built... dunno when it's slated to be finished though.


It looks like The Fillmore is cranking up. They are preparing the sidewalk in front for pedestrian safety and there is a new sign on the building...its about time.


http://livemusicss.com/

The transit center is well underway. The actual structure is coming up. A tower crane has been erected onsite so hopefully activity will pick up. The tower crane is for the transit center only, not for the proposed surrounding highrises.

Also sheeting and shoring work has commenced for a residential highrise on Ramsey between Georgia Ave and the CSX Tracks.

...and also site utilities has commenced for the new Silver Spring Library (Wayne, Fenton and Bonifant).

Things are happening.

^^ Google Earth just updated their imagery for the DC area (today, I think). It's dated August 29 2010, and you can see all the work going on at the transit center. You can also see all the recent ICC work and whatnot too.

^^ Google Earth just updated their imagery for the DC area (today, I think). It's dated August 29 2010, and you can see all the work going on at the transit center. You can also see all the recent ICC work and whatnot too.

That would have been Michael Jackson's 52st Birthday.............:(

The ceremonial ground breaking for 1150 Ripley Street, part of the Ripley District, was yesterday, October 5, 2010. As mentioned on a previous post site prep, sheeting /shoring and excavation commenced a month ago. My office window directly faces the site.

I find it quite rare that the ceremonial ground breaking occurs after work has already commenced.

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6962

The ceremonial ground breaking for 1150 Ripley Street, part of the Ripley District, was yesterday, October 5, 2010. As mentioned on a previous post site prep, sheeting /shoring and excavation commenced a month ago. My office window directly faces the site.

I find it quite rare that the ceremonial ground breaking occurs after work has already commenced.

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6962

This is good news. Ripley Street, along with the Transit Center and Live Nation now underway has put SS back on the development track.
Btw, any updates on City Place Mall development???

This is good news. Ripley Street, along with the Transit Center and Live Nation now underway has put SS back on the development track.
Btw, any updates on City Place Mall development???

Also do not forget about the new Silver Spring Library bounded by Fenton, Wayne and Bonifant. The library will cantaliever over a future Purple Line stop. Currently site utilities are being installed.

I have not heard of anything recent about City Place. Others here on the forum may have.

This is good news. Ripley Street, along with the Transit Center and Live Nation now underway has put SS back on the development track.
Btw, any updates on City Place Mall development???

I have no idea what's going on with City Place. I think they may even still have the model on display in the windows of one of the vacant units on the 3rd floor or something.

I have no idea what's going on with City Place. I think they may even still have the model on display in the windows of one of the vacant units on the 3rd floor or something.

The link below is the latest news I could find on City Place:

http://www.silverspringsingular.com/2010/08/city-place-episode-iii-new-new-hope.html

The link below is the latest news I could find on city Place:

http://www.silverspringsingular.com/2010/08/city-place-episode-iii-new-new-hope.html

That about sizes it up...No tower...:bash:

Looking out my office window, another crane has sprout up close to E-W Highway in the vicinity of Canada Dry. It is a crawler with a long jib. Ususally I have seen these type of cranes erect tower cranes. I will try to take a walk that way this afternoon and give an update... ...unless someone already knows something.

Looking out my office window, another crane has sprout up close to E-W Highway in the vicinity of Canada Dry. It is a crawler with a long jib. Ususally I have seen these type of cranes erect tower cranes. I will try to take a walk that way this afternoon and give an update... ...unless someone already knows something.

I took my little walk and indeed a tower crane is being erected. The project is roughly a 6-story residential structure located across the intersection of 13th and Kennett Street, about a block west of Georgia and E-W. Components are concrete structure below-grade parking and podium and stick frame construction above the podium.

The tower appears much taller since it has to clear surrounding structures.

I took my little walk and indeed a tower crane is being erected. The project is roughly a 6-story residential structure located across the intersection of 13th and Kennett Street, about a block west of Georgia and E-W. Components are concrete structure below-grade parking and podium and stick frame construction above the podium.

The tower appears much taller since it has to clear surrounding structures.

That's the big area behind the Comfort Inn, right? Do you know the name of that project?

http://www.leedg.com/properties/images/Slide05.png

The only thing left of the old JC Penny is the facade. I hope this development
is completed as the proposed rendering.

That's the big area behind the Comfort Inn, right? Do you know the name of that project?


The Galaxy???

With the topography of land around the Ripley Street development, will the new building going up become Silver Springs tallest?

I took my little walk and indeed a tower crane is being erected. The project is roughly a 6-story residential structure located across the intersection of 13th and Kennett Street, about a block west of Georgia and E-W. Components are concrete structure below-grade parking and podium and stick frame construction above the podium.

The tower appears much taller since it has to clear surrounding structures.

Shakman!!! :D Long time, no see! It's been a while, man! How are you?
Remember years ago when we talked on the phone?
remember how small a number the forumers were when we first started frequenting this site and skyscraperpage.com?
Hope everything is going good for you. :) I am doing good. :okay:

I like the Fillmore. Been to the one in Charlotte. I guess they are using the same blueprint over and over now. It is an intimate venue for sure. Seen the Smashing Pumpkins there. Silver Spring will definitely love this venue. :) There is a constant wave of performers coming weekly. Should be exciting for the area. :okay:

I havent seen the cut out profile rendering until today.


http://www.hickokcole.com/images/board/large/11/Fillmore_3.jpg

http://www.hickokcole.com/images/board/large/11/Fillmore_4.jpg

Nice. I hope they have a nice jazz schedule as well.

They Better add some Hip Hop, Go-Go, and Reggae Lineups or I will be pressing the speed dial numbers for the NAACP, Jessie Jackson, and Al Sharpton to have that place shut down.........:cheers:

New to the site (been reading forever, though). Look what I found on http://www.falklandnorth.com!

I know these are just massing studies, so let's hope Shalom Baranes office gives these boxes some personality in the end. Either way, 1200+ multi-family units plus a (hopefully) Harris Teeter and other retail will be a fantastic addition to DTSS

http://falklandnorth.com/images/gallery/lg-rendering1.jpg

http://falklandnorth.com/images/gallery/lg-rendering2.jpg

I spoke too soon...these are more than massing studies, but more or less the actual site plan. The Planning Board approved the sie plan (not the final architecture and overall project) yesterday (warning PDF):

http://www.montgomeryplanningboard.org/agenda/2010/documents/20101118_Falkland_North_transmittal_memo_Revised.pdf

Wrong link in post above (obviously I'm new here!). Here it is http://www.montgomeryplanningboard.org/agenda/2010/documents/20101118_Falkland_North_Revised_000.pdf

Welcome Woodsider!

New to the site (been reading forever, though). Look what I found on http://www.falklandnorth.com!

I know these are just massing studies, so let's hope Shalom Baranes office gives these boxes some personality in the end. Either way, 1200+ multi-family units plus a (hopefully) Harris Teeter and other retail will be a fantastic addition to DTSS

http://falklandnorth.com/images/gallery/lg-rendering1.jpg

http://falklandnorth.com/images/gallery/lg-rendering2.jpg

First, welcome to the forums!
Second... I don't know if I like the layout of that plan. The proposed density is awesome (it's actually more than what they were going for a few years ago) I just think the site plan layout is kinda... funky. Oh well, hopefully the final design of the buildings is attractive. After all, it's in a highly visible location right next to the metrorail.

Not enough height!!

Not enough height!!

True.... and what's up with that little shopping center right next to it at the north corner of East West and 29? I thought something was planned for it, but I don't know if that project has made any movement.... they really need to put a tower there, because it's some of the highest density zoned land in the county (right next to a metro station in a designated CBD).

Developers will build a mixed-use complex on the northern part of the site


A plan to build an apartment complex that will include retail stores, a public garden and 1,250 multi-family and townhouse units has gotten final approval to be built in downtown Silver Spring.

But some preservationists say that the site is historical and should have been protected.

Home Properties, the Vienna, Va.-based developer of the Falkland Chase apartments in Silver Spring, will redevelop the northern portion of the site on 16th Street and East-West Highway. The two other parcels of the property were designated as historic last year. Developers received the go-ahead for the new multi-use project from Montgomery County Planning Board Thursday.

"We believe this project is a balance of competing county objectives and that it does provide a public benefit," said Raquel Montenegro, associate director of government affairs/legislative for the Maryland-National Capital Industry Association.

The development will include 70,000 square feet of retail space and some internal, private streets and underground garages. It will also feature 65,545 square feet of on-site public space, including a garden, a plaza with a water feature and pedestrian areas. The developer's primary off-site contribution to the public will be the restoration and beautification of a stream that runs through the southern portion of the Falkland-Chase property.

In March 2009, the Montgomery County Council ended a contentious battle between the developer and preservationists by adding two-thirds of Falkland Chase to the Master Plan for Historic Preservation but leaving the north parcel open for redevelopment. Falkland Chase was originally built in 1936 and 1937 and was dedicated by then-First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt as the second housing complex in the country built under the New Deal Federal Housing Authority. The south and west parcels contain 270 garden-style apartments.

Though the site plan passed unanimously, it was not without opposition from some community members.

Mary Reardon, of the Silver Spring Historical Society, opposed the project because she considers the present development an historic landmark.

"When the north parcel is demolished, it will be a sad day for preservation," she said.

Lorraine Pearsall, president of Montgomery Preservation, also opposed the project for similar reasons.

"The historic significance of Falkland Chase has been exhaustively documented," she said. "We have always maintained that Falkland Chase should be protected in its entirety."

abryant@gazette.net


http://www.gazette.net/stories/11242010/silvnew220149_32538.php

But some preservationists say that the site is historical and should have been protected.

Though the site plan passed unanimously, it was not without opposition from some community members.

Mary Reardon, of the Silver Spring Historical Society, opposed the project because she considers the present development an historic landmark.

"When the north parcel is demolished, it will be a sad day for preservation," she said.

Lorraine Pearsall, president of Montgomery Preservation, also opposed the project for similar reasons.

"The historic significance of Falkland Chase has been exhaustively documented," she said. "We have always maintained that Falkland Chase should be protected in its entirety."



What a bunch of psychotic summauvab-tches..........:nuts:

These so-called "Historic Preservationists" can go to straight to f--king hell with gasoline draws on. These people are not from Maryland and their main goal is to sabotage Business and Economic Growth for Suburban Maryland and the Baltimore area with their Bull Sh-t anti-growth tirade.........

There is Not a Muthaf--king D-mn thing Historical about the Fuckland Chase or whatever the hell they call that place..........

Let the Demolition begin!!!!!!!!!:cheers:

This will be Home Property's one of two proposals in the Silver Spring Business District. The other will be off of Ripley Street, between Georgia Avenue and the CSX tracks. Abatement and utility disconnects are currently occuring in preparation for demolition of a two story structure that use to house a couple of auto repair shops. In addition, a one story stick frame storage shed will also come down. The last I have read, the proposal will be two 19-story residential highrises. Though I am not sure construction will commence immediatly after the completion of demolition.

The two 19 story towers were from the prior developer's plans (Kettler). Home Properties hired architect Shalom Baranes again and redesigned the site into one tower and one much smaller building, plus some retail.http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_HC0tnd5ZsdY/S7s6FV2Ox0I/AAAAAAAABf0/vdlNIwGlhzc/s1600/Ripley+2+Buildings.jpg

The two 19 story towers were from the prior developer's plans (Kettler). Home Properties hired architect Shalom Baranes again and redesigned the site into one tower and one much smaller building, plus some retail.http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_HC0tnd5ZsdY/S7s6FV2Ox0I/AAAAAAAABf0/vdlNIwGlhzc/s1600/Ripley+2+Buildings.jpg

My office window is right up against this development. Abatement appears to be completed. Utility disconnects in anticipation for demolition of the current structures is continuing. These will be the same developers which will build a new street connecting Ripley with Bonifant. This new street will run between 1110 Bonifant and the currently under construction transit center.

Do you know if they have gone for building permits yet? So many exciting things going on in DTSS--Ripley District, transit center, Fillmore, library. Throw in Falkland North and (hopefully) federal funding for the Purple Line and this place is going to be on FIRE!

As of Christmas eve, the existing buildings on the site are flattened and gone! Let's hope we hear some news soon about groundbreaking.

The two 19 story towers were from the prior developer's plans (Kettler). Home Properties hired architect Shalom Baranes again and redesigned the site into one tower and one much smaller building, plus some retail.http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_HC0tnd5ZsdY/S7s6FV2Ox0I/AAAAAAAABf0/vdlNIwGlhzc/s1600/Ripley+2+Buildings.jpg

Demolition of the structures for this project is nearly complete. Both structures are down, however the hauling of debris continous.

I just discovered a third tower crane within the Silver Spring Business District. From my vantage point the tower crane appears to be located in the vicinity of phase II of the pharmacutical company, adjacent to the Cameron. I will try to get closer to confirm.

I just discovered a third tower crane within the Silver Spring Business District. From my vantage point the tower crane appears to be located in the vicinity of phase II of the pharmacutical company, adjacent to the Cameron. I will try to get closer to confirm.

The crane is for the contstruction of phase 3 of the United Therapeutics complex. Photo from Montgomery County Planning Board Web site

http://www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/silverspring/private_projects/images/united_therapeutics_2.jpg

http://www.montgomeryplanning.org/co...apeutics_2.jpg

Here's the picture. From Montgomery County Planning Board Web site.

The crane is for the contstruction of phase 3 of the United Therapeutics complex. Photo from Montgomery County Planning Board Web site

http://www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/silverspring/private_projects/images/united_therapeutics_2.jpg

Thank you for the clarification. ...and rendering.

What was phase II?

Phase 1 was the white building finished a few years ago, phase 2 was the red building that just opened about 6 (?) months ao.

For Immediate Release: 1/12/2011


Leggett Announces Development Team Selection for Downtown Silver Spring Redevelopment Site

County Executive Isiah Leggett today announced that a development team led by The Donohoe Companies and Montgomery Housing Partnership (MHP) has been selected to develop a mixed-use project adjacent to the new Silver Spring Library. The nearly one-acre site, located at the corner of Fenton and Bonifant streets, is adjacent to a future Purple Line station and will include a mix of commercial and residential uses.

“This project is another step in the evolution of Silver Spring,” said Leggett. “Donohoe and MHP are a highly qualified team for this mixed-use, mixed-income project.”

The project is a joint venture between Donohoe, one of the region’s most respected developers, and MHP, a private, nonprofit developer of affordable housing in Montgomery County. Others on the development team are architect, VOA Associates; civil engineers, Loiederman Soltesz Associates; and landscape architects, Parker Rodriguez.

“This mixed-use project at Fenton and Bonifant streets will complement the neighboring Silver Spring Library,” said County Council President Valerie Ervin who represents District 5, which includes Kensington, Silver Spring, Takoma Park and Wheaton. “I am confident that this experienced development team will help to transform this area into a hub for community life in downtown Silver Spring.”

“Transit-oriented urban infill projects can be challenging,” said Richard Nelson, director of the County’s Department of Housing and Community Affairs, “and it was essential to select a team with deep experience in transit-oriented development, multi-family housing, tight infill locations and mixed-use development.”

“We are excited to be selected to work with Montgomery County,” said Jim Donohoe, president of The Donohoe Companies. “This project, along with the Silver Spring Library and a new public plaza, all adjacent to a future Purple Line station is going to be another great reason to live, work and spend time in downtown Silver Spring.”

“We have worked within Montgomery County for 20 years to preserve and improve affordable housing options for County residents near retail and transit,” said Robert Goldman, president of MHP. “We are thrilled to be collaborating with the County and Donohoe to further that mission.”

# # #

About The Donohoe Companies

The Donohoe Companies is the oldest full-service real estate company in the Washington region. The company has developed and/or built more than 1,000 projects in the region, including embassies, hotels, retail, offices, education and health care institutions, federal, state and local government facilities, and tens of thousands of units of multi-family housing. Donohoe has offices in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C.

About MHP

Montgomery Housing Partnership (MHP) is a private, nonprofit housing development organization based in Silver Spring, MD. Since 1989, MHP has developed more than 1,100 units of affordable apartments, condominiums and townhomes in Montgomery County. Their holistic approach to housing includes providing affordable rents, developing educational programs for residents to expand their opportunities and balance their lives, and implementing neighborhood revitalization efforts. MHP is a charter member of NeighborWorks® America. For more information, visit www.MHPartners.org.

I rode by there yesterday the-- existing buildings have been demolished and the site is cleared. There are also about 8-10 large track-hoes on the property (separate from the construction of 1150 Ripley across the street). I can't imagine the construction company would keep that much expensive equipment just sitting there unless they were getting ready to start moving dirt. Anyone know if Home Properties has filed for a building permit yet?

I rode by there yesterday the-- existing buildings have been demolished and the site is cleared. There are also about 8-10 large track-hoes on the property (separate from the construction of 1150 Ripley across the street). I can't imagine the construction company would keep that much expensive equipment just sitting there unless they were getting ready to start moving dirt. Anyone know if Home Properties has filed for a building permit yet?

The equipment onsite is for the installation of underground utilities and tie-in for the Silver Spring Library.

The equipment onsite is for the installation of underground utilities and tie-in for the Silver Spring Library.

Just curious (and maybe naive), but how do the utilities on this site have to be tied in with the new library site, which is 4 blocks away?

Just curious (and maybe naive), but how do the utilities on this site have to be tied in with the new library site, which is 4 blocks away?

The site utilities for the new library will not be tied into the site utilities of the current library.

Steel erection for the "new" Filmore theater has commenced. Steel is being installed via crawler.

A fourth tower crane will soon be erected in the Silver Spring Business District. The tower crane pad was poured this past Tuesday and some sections of the mast arrived yesterday. This one will be for a residential highrise on Ripley Street, between Georgia Avenue and the CSX Tracks. This is the highrise across the street from Home Property's proposal.

I am starting to feel like the former "Silver Springer".

Just curious (and maybe naive), but how do the utilities on this site have to be tied in with the new library site, which is 4 blocks away?

You and I were talking about two different projects. Sorry for the mix up. :lol:

I rode by the site yesterday and briefly talked to a (I believe) construction superintendant parked on the Home Properties side of Ripley. I asked when the project will break ground and he said "June or July".

Bring it on, baby.

I rode by the site yesterday and briefly talked to a (I believe) construction superintendant parked on the Home Properties side of Ripley. I asked when the project will break ground and he said "June or July".

Bring it on, baby.

That would be interesting. The person who you spoke with MAY have been for the project across Ripley. WRIT has leased Home Property's land as a staging area for their project including personel parking. Though I hope you did speak with someone from Home Properties.

In case some of you are not aware, a new street will be built which will connect Ripley to Bonifant. This street will start from where Ripley dead ends before the CSX tracks, run between the future Transit Center and 1110 Bonifant and then connect Bonifant at the top vehicular entrance of the Transit Center.

Yeah I should have asked him which project he worked for--thought about that as I drove away.

And regarding the new street where it connects to Bonifant, it looks like the 6 (5?) story building called 1150 Bonifant will have to come down because the Purple line tracks cross the site as the line transitions between Bonifant and the Transit Center. That's a hard turn (more than 90 degrees) so I'm guessing they need the space because of the limits of the light rail turning radius.

Sorry I mean 1110 Bonifant...the same building you are referring to.

:lurker:

Yeah I should have asked him which project he worked for--thought about that as I drove away.

And regarding the new street where it connects to Bonifant, it looks like the 6 (5?) story building called 1150 Bonifant will have to come down because the Purple line tracks cross the site as the line transitions between Bonifant and the Transit Center. That's a hard turn (more than 90 degrees) so I'm guessing they need the space because of the limits of the light rail turning radius.

Why the hell can't they build a tunnel for the purple line through Downtown Silver Spring....

It will be hard to have the Purple Line intersect with the Red Line/CSX above ground........

Why the hell can't they build a tunnel for the purple line through Downtown Silver Spring....

It will be hard to have the Purple Line intersect with the Red Line/CSX above ground........

After spending time in San Francisco last summer, I have no problem at all with the Purple Line running along the surface of the streets of downtown SS. It will work just fine with minimal traffic disruption, unless, of course, one insists on driving fast through a major urban area like ours.

As the Purple Line comes into the transit center from the west, it will actually be 20'+ <i> above </i> the CSX and Metro tracks, not along side them at the same grade. So that's how the engineers are going to solve that problem. Then it has to make a sharp 90 turn and decend down to the grade of Bonifant (hence the loss of the brick building in the prior post).

Why the hell can't they build a tunnel for the purple line through Downtown Silver Spring....

It will be hard to have the Purple Line intersect with the Red Line/CSX above ground........

After spending time in San Francisco last summer and seeing their Muni system (not BART) operate in very dense areas, I have no problem at all with the Purple Line running along the surface of the streets of downtown SS. It will work just fine with minimal traffic disruption, unless, of course, one insists on driving fast through a major urban area like ours.

As the Purple Line comes into the transit center from the west, it will actually be 20'+ <i> above </i> the CSX and Metro tracks, not along side them at the same grade. So that's how the engineers are going to solve that problem. Then it has to make a sharp 90 turn and decend down to the grade of Bonifant (hence the loss of the brick building in the prior post).

Why the hell can't they build a tunnel for the purple line through Downtown Silver Spring....

It will be hard to have the Purple Line intersect with the Red Line/CSX above ground........


Unfortunately there is something called cost when comparing below grade to above grade.

After spending time in San Francisco last summer, I have no problem at all with the Purple Line running along the surface of the streets of downtown SS. It will work just fine with minimal traffic disruption, unless, of course, one insists on driving fast through a major urban area like ours.

Silver Spring is not San Francisco and I don't see Arlington and Alexandria bending Backwards about building trolley-like Light Rails.....

As the Purple Line comes into the transit center from the west, it will actually be 20'+ <i> above </i> the CSX and Metro tracks, not along side them at the same grade. So that's how the engineers are going to solve that problem. Then it has to make a sharp 90 turn and decend down to the grade of Bonifant (hence the loss of the brick building in the prior post).

It will be wiser to build the Purple line as an Above Level El Train or Underground....

The only reason people support the Trolley Style Option because they know it will ruin future businesses in Downtown Silver Spring because its already be talked about that a few office buildings maybe demolished to make way for the useless purple line trolley.....:nuts:

Unfortunately there is something called cost when comparing below grade to above grade.

Then build it Above Grade instead of the trolley style street rail option.........:ohno:.

Then build it Above Grade instead of the trolley style street rail option.........:ohno:.

...that also costs more than at grade. Besides there is no room for above grade due to County Garage 55. This garage cantelievers over Bonifant, directly adjacent to 1110 Bonifant.

Yeah I should have asked him which project he worked for--thought about that as I drove away.

And regarding the new street where it connects to Bonifant, it looks like the 6 (5?) story building called 1150 Bonifant will have to come down because the Purple line tracks cross the site as the line transitions between Bonifant and the Transit Center. That's a hard turn (more than 90 degrees) so I'm guessing they need the space because of the limits of the light rail turning radius.

...that also costs more than at grade. Besides there is no room for above grade due to County Garage 55. This garage cantelievers over Bonifant, directly adjacent to 1110 Bonifant.

Then until they can build it above or underground they can scrap the damn trolley BS Option because it is nothing but a tax wasting anti-growth tool that will do nothing but replace the existing bus routes.

Want a freaking trolley go to San Francisco, Silver Spring should not be disrespected by a few that wants to tear down office buildings/prevent future office development just for some crappy trolley-like light rail that WILL NOT BENEFIT the MASS POPULATION of Tax Paying Silver Spring Citizens......:ohno:

Why the heck would I want to ride some slow trolley that will not operate 24/7 and cost more than $3.00 when I can use my car to get me from point A to Point C.......:ohno:

Then until they can build it above or underground they can scrap the damn trolley BS Option because it is nothing but a tax wasting anti-growth tool that will do nothing but replace the existing bus routes.

Want a freaking trolley go to San Francisco, Silver Spring should not be disrespected by a few that wants to tear down office buildings/prevent future office development just for some crappy trolley-like light rail that WILL NOT BENEFIT the MASS POPULATION of Tax Paying Silver Spring Citizens......:ohno:

Why the heck would I want to ride some slow trolley that will not operate 24/7 and cost more than $3.00 when I can use my car to get me from point A to Point C.......:ohno:

You have very strong opinions about light rail (which you believe is trolley-like). I always believe in listening to the arguments of those who think differently than me because I might learn something. Are your opinions based on your gut feeling or can you cite evidence, research, studies, etc. that support your positions? If the latter, would you share with us the data so we can use that to help with our decisions to support the project or not?

You have very strong opinions about light rail (which you believe is trolley-like). I always believe in listening to the arguments of those who think differently than me because I might learn something. Are your opinions based on your gut feeling or can you cite evidence, research, studies, etc. that support your positions? If the latter, would you share with us the data so we can use that to help with our decisions to support the project or not?

If building the Purple Line as a street trolley is such a "wise" decision then why in the Hell is the Silver Line(ing) being built as a High Speed Subway instead of a Light Rail??????????

You have very strong opinions about light rail (which you believe is trolley-like).

"Light rail" and "trolley" are essentially synonyms, in modern American usage.

If building the Purple Line as a street trolley is such a "wise" decision then why in the Hell is the Silver Line(ing) being built as a High Speed Subway instead of a Light Rail??????????

Lots more riders.

"Light rail" and "trolley" are essentially synonyms, in modern American usage.



Lots more riders.

One could argue that the Purple line would have just as much ridership. The main reason why the Purple Line is not high speed is 1. cost, 2. cost., and 3. density. As many and as close the stops will be on the purple line, it doesn't need to travel 55 mph.

If building the Purple Line as a street trolley is such a "wise" decision then why in the Hell is the Silver Line(ing) being built as a High Speed Subway instead of a Light Rail??????????

The silver line is being built for one reason only. That reason is to get rail transit to Dulles Airport. WMATA IS NOT BUILDING the silver line. MWAA is building the silver line. The silver line is over 6 billion dollars to build and would not be built if it were not for Dulles Airport needing Metro access. The Dulles Toll Road Users are basically paying for the silver line and it wouldn't be built without the Dulles Toll road money from drivers over the next 30 years.

WMATA is not building the purple line. MTA is building the purple line. Nobody is building heavy rail anywhere in the US except two or three cities. Everybody else is building lightrail because federal funding is almost impossible to win for heavy rail this day and age. It cost too much. Without toll road revenue and the Airport Authority revenue, who is going to pay for the purple line if the cost was 6 billion? You have to look at the facts and educate yourself. Also, the commercial development that comes with building lightrail is staggering. This is about development as much as it's about transit. Most people forget that.

In addition, the Silver Line alignment will not be through residential neighborhoods. Good luck convincing MoCo's vast Bethesda /Silver Spring NIMBY population of a heavy rail above, below or beneath...

One could argue that the Purple line would have just as much ridership. The main reason why the Purple Line is not high speed is 1. cost, 2. cost., and 3. density. As many and as close the stops will be on the purple line, it doesn't need to travel 55 mph.

Not a good enough excuse because if they are cutting the cost by building a slow speed light rail then there should be money left to build the slow speed light rail above and below level segregated from the street level.......

And yeah that BS Trolley Light Rail of the Purple line will not attract a large number of riders.....

The silver line is being built for one reason only. That reason is to get rail transit to Dulles Airport. WMATA IS NOT BUILDING the silver line. MWAA is building the silver line. The silver line is over 6 billion dollars to build and would not be built if it were not for Dulles Airport needing Metro access. The Dulles Toll Road Users are basically paying for the silver line and it wouldn't be built without the Dulles Toll road money from drivers over the next 30 years.

WMATA is not building the purple line. MTA is building the purple line. Nobody is building heavy rail anywhere in the US except two or three cities. Everybody else is building lightrail because federal funding is almost impossible to win for heavy rail this day and age. It cost too much. Without toll road revenue and the Airport Authority revenue, who is going to pay for the purple line if the cost was 6 billion? You have to look at the facts and educate yourself. Also, the commercial development that comes with building lightrail is staggering. This is about development as much as it's about transit. Most people forget that.

That brings the question as to why MAA, MTA, and METRO not sponsoring the extension of the Green Line Subway to BWI Airport via Laurel, Columbia, and Fort Meade.......

In addition, the Silver Line alignment will not be through residential neighborhoods. Good luck convincing MoCo's vast Bethesda /Silver Spring NIMBY population of a heavy rail above, below or beneath...

There were plans to build the Purple Line Subway along the I-495 Corridor Outside the Beltway.......

That brings the question as to why MAA, MTA, and METRO not sponsoring the extension of the Green Line Subway to BWI Airport via Laurel, Columbia, and Fort Meade.......

There is no money to build that. They are struggling to build these small light rail projects as it is. How would they pay for an extension of Metro to BWI? Who would pay for it? I guess you think it would be better to just not build anything if it's not Metro. By the way, the Green Line light rail line in Boston has well over 200,000 riders a day. Light rail is booming in LA, Boston, Philly, and San Francisco. What don't you like about Light Rail?

There were plans to build the Purple Line Subway along the I-495 Corridor Outside the Beltway.......

Maryland doesn't build subway lines in Highway medians. There are no riders when you do that. Rapid transit needs to be surrounded by housing.

There were plans to build the Purple Line Subway along the I-495 Corridor Outside the Beltway.......

That's called the ICC now. lol

Maryland doesn't build subway lines in Highway medians. There are no riders when you do that. Rapid transit needs to be surrounded by housing.

Not neccessarily true. I have been on the Orange Line many times towards Vienna which had quite a crowd; both on and off peak hours. The Purple Line alignment through Silver Spring is proposed to be in the middle of Wayne Ave which has numerous existing housing along the route. Unfortunately those effected by this alignment are trying to oppose (or were opposed to) the current proposed alignment. I wonder if these people also complain about vehicular traffic on Wayne Ave... Did some of you know the new Silver Spring Library will have a Purple Line stop? A portion of the library will cantaliever over the rail stop.

I doubt any of us will be alive to ride the Purple Line.

I doubt any of us will be alive to ride the Purple Line.

Be of good cheer! i few recent articles have mentioned that ground could break by 2014. That's not too far away. Depending on which end they start first, (my gut tells me Bethesda to Silver Spring would be complete first, reference the ICC), the first days of operation could be no later than 2016. five years is not to far in the future.

Be of good cheer! i few recent articles have mentioned that ground could break by 2014. That's not too far away. Depending on which end they start first, (my gut tells me Bethesda to Silver Spring would be complete first, reference the ICC), the first days of operation could be no later than 2016. five years is not to far in the future.

It's also possible that MTA will not get final funding for the entire project (or all at once). In that case, they would likely build the portion with the highest ridership projections first--Bethesda to Silver Spring.

The true test will come later this year, when MTA goes for federal funding for final engineering. It's generally accepted that the DOT isn't going to fund engineering unless they genuinely believe the project will get construction funding (otherwise, why would they waste hundreds of millions on design?).

And here's a rendering from MTA on how the Purple Line will integrate into the Silver Spring Transit Center (from SilverSpringTrails.org). Read the original post here http://www.silverspringtrails.org/?p=1293

http://www.silverspringtrails.org/images/sstransitcenterview.png

Be of good cheer! i few recent articles have mentioned that ground could break by 2014. That's not too far away. Depending on which end they start first, (my gut tells me Bethesda to Silver Spring would be complete first, reference the ICC), the first days of operation could be no later than 2016. five years is not to far in the future.


I am trying. Unfortunately there seems to be a pattern of talk rather than do. I also believe the first segment would be between Bethesda and Silver Spring.

There is no money to build that.

But yet there is money to build the Silver Line Subway.....

They are struggling to build these small light rail projects as it is.

So is Virginia with the Silver Line but that ain't stopping them from completing the Project in an estimate time period....

How would they pay for an extension of Metro to BWI? Who would pay for it?

The same damn people that paid for the Silver line just like they are juicing money from Suburban Maryland to help pay for the Silver Line......

I guess you think it would be better to just not build anything if it's not Metro.

So basically you are saying that you support Virginia building Subway service 25+ Miles from the Inner City while Maryland gets useless trolley's shoved down the Tax Payers throats........

By the way, the Green Line light rail line in Boston has well over 200,000 riders a day.

SOO What......

The Green Line in Boston is mostly Underground and Elevated......

Light rail is booming in LA, Boston, Philly, and San Francisco. What don't you like about Light Rail?

The only thing I despise about Light Rails is when it is built like a Street Car Trolley......

Light Rails are better built SEGREGATED from Street Level......

Maryland doesn't build subway lines in Highway medians. There are no riders when you do that. Rapid transit needs to be surrounded by housing.

Now I know I will not take you seriously when you make cheap sarcastic failed joking comments like the one above......

The last time I traveled on the Dulles Toll Road the ENTIRE Median of the Highway was ripped getting prepared to lay down the Tracks for he New Silver Line Subway......

The I-66 Orange Line Subway(from Ballston to Vienna) is always packed(along with I-66) 7 days a week...

Baltimore has a Subway that runs along I-795 that carries a very large number of Riders...

Sooo again the Purple is be better off Built as a High Speed Subway may it be along the proposed light rail route or within a mile outside the Beltway......

That's called the ICC now. lol

Then the Silver Line must be the Dulles Toll Road/Greenway.....

Oh thats right the Dulles Toll Road/Greenway is already built..........:ohno:

And here's a rendering from MTA on how the Purple Line will integrate into the Silver Spring Transit Center (from SilverSpringTrails.org). Read the original post here http://www.silverspringtrails.org/?p=1293

http://www.silverspringtrails.org/images/sstransitcenterview.png

That nicely built elevation through Silver Spring METRO Station should be elevated and partially below level/underground throughout the Entire Length.....

A few years ago Charlotte, NC completed their Light Rail Projects serving South Charlotte and the entire length is Segregated from the street level.

Then the Silver Line must be the Dulles Toll Road/Greenway.....

Oh thats right the Dulles Toll Road/Greenway is already built..........:ohno:

I was joking. :ohno:

But yet there is money to build the Silver Line Subway.....



So is Virginia with the Silver Line but that ain't stopping them from completing the Project in an estimate time period....



The same damn people that paid for the Silver line just like they are juicing money from Suburban Maryland to help pay for the Silver Line......



So basically you are saying that you support Virginia building Subway service 25+ Miles from the Inner City while Maryland gets useless trolley's shoved down the Tax Payers throats........



SOO What......

The Green Line in Boston is mostly Underground and Elevated......



The only thing I despise about Light Rails is when it is built like a Street Car Trolley......

Light Rails are better built SEGREGATED from Street Level......


Could you name me one place where street grade light rail does not work? ...based off of facts, not your opinion...

Could you name me one place where street grade light rail does not work? ...based off of facts, not your opinion...

The Santa Clara VTA light rail is fairly lame, in my opinion. It works in the core of San Jose, but it takes too long to get anywhere if you're traveling to the farther reaches of the system.

The commercial structure planned for 8711 Georgia Ave is to become a residential structure. Ground floor retail plans will remain.

http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2011/04/silver-spring-georgia-avenue-switches.html

Quick update on 1150 Ripley... Framing for the 6th floor slab commenced yesterday (7/19). About a floor a week is being erected.

I've been watching it, too, and it's exciting to see the building coming out of the ground. <p>

Have you been able to find any news on the supposedly imminent groundbreaking of some other DTSS projecs? I thought these would be out of the ground by now:

Ripley Street North (highrise apts across street from 1150 Ripley)
The Ellsworth (midrise apts behind the civic bldg)
Silver Spring Park (hotel, apts, retail at corner of Fenton St & Silver Spring Ave)

I've been watching it, too, and it's exciting to see the building coming out of the ground. <p>

Have you been able to find any news on the supposedly imminent groundbreaking of some other DTSS projecs? I thought these would be out of the ground by now:

Ripley Street North (highrise apts across street from 1150 Ripley)
The Ellsworth (midrise apts behind the civic bldg)
Silver Spring Park (hotel, apts, retail at corner of Fenton St & Silver Spring Ave)



1. Ripley Street North site is currently being used as a staging ground for 1150 Ripley construction. In addition a temporary roadway runs through the site for construction access into the SSTC. The temporary roadway is not for public use.

2. From inside sources, The Ellsworth may breaking ground 3rd or 4th quarter 2011. As a matter of fact those who have been using the proposed site for storage are being asked to relocate.

3. Silver Spring Park has no activity, though the construction fence is still along perimeter of the site.

That's not Silver Spring Park you're referring to (fenced in), that's Studio Plaza http://dc.urbanturf.com/pipeline/109/Studio_Plaza/

Silver Spring Park is at the southeast corner of Fenton & Silver Spring Ave. http://www.tbd.com/blogs/tbd-neighborhoods/2010/11/silver-spring-park-development-approved-3987.html

That's not Silver Spring Park you're referring to (fenced in), that's Studio Plaza http://dc.urbanturf.com/pipeline/109/Studio_Plaza/

Silver Spring Park is at the southeast corner of Fenton & Silver Spring Ave. http://www.tbd.com/blogs/tbd-neighborhoods/2010/11/silver-spring-park-development-approved-3987.html

Thank you for the clarification. I will try to make a trip to the Silver Spring Park site and give you an update.

The Fillmore Silver Spring will finally be opening its doors to the public around mid-September. R&B performer Mary J. Blige will be the first performance on opening week. Other opening week performances also include Blackstar (Mos Def & Talib Kweli), Blondie, Bring Me the Horizon, Primus & Cheap Trick. Tickets for all announced shows will go on sale Friday, July 29 at 10am at LiveNation.com. More shows will be announced next week.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/fillmore-silver-spring-opens-with-mary-j-blige-on-sept-15/2011/07/21/gIQAhpXzSI_story.html

As I am looking out of my office window, I have noticed the lot across from 1150 Ripley is beng cleared. The lot is /was being used as a staging area for the construction of 1150 Ripley. Perhaps some new activity or an issue with rent payments??? Stay tuned...

Yesterday I drove to the upper levels of the Bonifant St. parking garage to look down on the Ripley sites. You are correct...the Ripley St. North site has been mostly cleared. What's also been done is that Ripley St. itself has been built out to full width with curb, gutteer and base coat asphalt. From the garage, you can also see the new extension of Ripley St. as it curves to the north and will eventually connect with Bonifant at the transit center. I can't wait for these two highrise apartment buildings to be finished so they wil put 1,500 more pedestrians in this area (those seeking shopping, dining and entertainment options).

The Fillmore looks nice. I am going to see Blue October play there.

Yesterday I drove to the upper levels of the Bonifant St. parking garage to look down on the Ripley sites. You are correct...the Ripley St. North site has been mostly cleared. What's also been done is that Ripley St. itself has been built out to full width with curb, gutteer and base coat asphalt. From the garage, you can also see the new extension of Ripley St. as it curves to the north and will eventually connect with Bonifant at the transit center. I can't wait for these two highrise apartment buildings to be finished so they wil put 1,500 more pedestrians in this area (those seeking shopping, dining and entertainment options).

1150 Ripley material is once again being staged on the Home Properties site though it does seem limited. Framing of the facade commenced last week. Today I saw precast panels arrive onsite. Sprinkler risers are also being installed as well interior masonry walls.

Looks like work has finally started on The Ellswoth Apartments--not quite the April groundbreaking as originally publicized. Today there were crews removing the perimeter fencing and grading down all the remaining vegetation & debris.



http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2011/03/ellsworth-slated-for-april.html

http://www.hcm2.com/projects/default.aspx?ProjID=330

http://www.hcm2.com/projects/default.aspx?ProjID=330

Wow that's great news! I've always hated that Safeway and thought it was an inneficient use of urban space. The best thing is they dont have to deal with any challenges from zoning, historic, etc. Let the design competition begin and the wrecking ball arrrive!

Wow that's great news! I've always hated that Safeway and thought it was an inneficient use of urban space. The best thing is they dont have to deal with any challenges from zoning, historic, etc. Let the design competition begin and the wrecking ball arrrive!

I would like to see the Wheaton design for this location...

...once again the lot across from 1150 Ripley has been cleared.

The project is now called Eleven55 Ripley and Home Properties has given it a page on it's Web site. Says groundbreaking is in "late 2011".

http://www.homeproperties.com/AboutUs/DevelopmentInformation/Eleven55Ripley/Default.aspx

Are 1150 Ripley and 1155 Ripley both going to be rental only? Even the row houses?

Are 1150 Ripley and 1155 Ripley both going to be rental only? Even the row houses?

Eleven55 Ripley will also be rentals. Did anyone else notice the blurb in the specficiations indicating "tallest in Silver Spring" ?

I have learned today the GC for Eleven55 will start to mobilize next week. The GC is Davis. Across the street, 1150 Ripley is close to the top.

So the "week" has passed yet there is no Eleven55 Ripley activity. There is activity on the site however it is from 1150 Ripley.

So the "week" has passed yet there is no Eleven55 Ripley activity. There is activity on the site however it is from 1150 Ripley.

Some site work has commenced for Eleven55 Ripley. Looking outside my office window, the remaining foliage on the site have been removed and a new super-silt fence is currently being installed. Some site grading as well is occuring. A construction entrance is starting to take shape off of Ripley, closer towards the alley a block away from Georgia Ave.

Hopefully an official ground breaking ceremony will happen soon?

Drove by 1155 Ripley today and you are right...tons of activity! Silt fence installed, big track hoe moving dirt, lots of dump trucks going in and out. Best of all there are port-a-potties and men in hard hats. Bring it on!

Drove by 1155 Ripley today and you are right...tons of activity! Silt fence installed, big track hoe moving dirt, lots of dump trucks going in and out. Best of all there are port-a-potties and men in hard hats. Bring it on!

So much for an Eleven55 ground breaking ceremony. Home Properties and Davis Construction are quickly moving forward with this project. Installation of soldier piles and excavation has commenced.

There is a lot of rock to be blasted therefore activity may seem to slow in the near future. However the pace should pick back up once the structure rises out of the hole.

The other apartment project across Ripley Street was the same way. I'm not sure if they had to do any rock blasting, but it took "'forever" to get all the underground work finished. Once they did--zoom--they added what seemed to be about a floor per week (just my casual observation). I really hope these two buildings (and the 1,000 + people who will live in them) will soon spur some additional redevelopment, restaurants, retail, etc. along both sides of Georgia north of the overpass.

Is the development at GA Ave and E-W Hwy/Burlington Ave part of Mont College or mixed use??

Is the development at GA Ave and E-W Hwy/Burlington Ave part of Mont College or mixed use??

Looks like 210 apartments. I assume they are mostly market rate with the obligatory MPDUs thrown in.

http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2011/03/8021-georgia-ave-to-house-luxury.html

Took a walk around SS yesterday and snapped some photos of the projects currently underway (except 8021 Georgia and the one behind the civic center since those are still in the early stages).

Fenwick Station:
Approved 310-unit, 6-story apartments on the site of the current post office.
See http://www.montgomeryplanningboard.org/agenda/2011/documents/20111013_Fenwick_Station_Project_PreliminaryPlan.pdf

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/1788/cimg1360p.jpg

United Therapeutics Headquarters:
TONS of activity on the site - this one's going up FAST!

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/6203/cimg1361.jpg

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/4599/cimg1365h.jpg

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/6602/cimg1364s.jpg

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/2285/cimg1371v.jpg

Completed Portion of United Therapeutics

http://img810.imageshack.us/img810/5113/cimg1374.jpg

http://img573.imageshack.us/img573/7262/cimg1372.jpg
SWEET ROOF!
http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/7417/cimg1384k.jpg

Silver Spring Public Library:
No workers there yesterday, but obviously some dirt is being pushed around.
See renderings at http://www.justupthepike.com/2010/12/new-cheaper-silver-spring-library_03.html

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/7285/cimg1396.jpg

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/9876/cimg1398b.jpg

1150 Ripley:
Topped out.

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/5984/cimg1404c.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/7091/cimg1414g.jpg

http://img846.imageshack.us/img846/1795/cimg1423w.jpg

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/6098/cimg1424n.jpg

Eleven55 Ripley:
Lots of site activity and drilling truck arrives!

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/4558/cimg1411x.jpg

http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/5704/cimg1417w.jpg

Finally, the Paul Sarbanes Transit Center:
Work still going on, but MUCH slower and less activity than the other sites (except SS Library).

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/3325/cimg1426g.jpg

http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/1712/cimg1428v.jpg

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/5238/cimg1429d.jpg

Finally, the Paul Sarbanes Transit Center:
Work still going on, but MUCH slower and less activity than the other sites (except SS Library).

Wait, the public projects are going much slower than the private projects? What could possibly explain that? :nuts:

Thanks for all the great pics! Speaking of the transit center, I noticed that all their signage is....guess what color....wait for it...........GREY. It's bad enough we didn't get the Grand Central Station plan we were teased with way back when, but if you're going to build something so utilitarian at least throw some COLOR on it somewhere. Everything, and I mean everything about that structure is grey or white. Couldn't the stairwells be blue? the signs be red? Something be yellow? ANTHING? I love watching this job be built but now I'm ready for it to be hidden by other buildings.

The project behind the Civic Center is Citron Apartments:
http://www.livecitron.com/

Excavation appears to be in its final stages.

Relative to the SSTC, it will look very nice with the lighting and glass block. Also there is a lot of interior work which the public currently cannot see.

Kudos to Silver Spring. You guys are really rockin'! Still waiting for the East Campus project to break ground here. We're in another lull unfortunately. Our construction comes in spurts. lol

The tower crane for Eleven55 is being erected... :banana:

This explains some of the reasons why the Transit Center is taking so long:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/md-politics/silver-spring-transit-hub-gets-another-delay/2012/01/10/gIQAtUe4qP_story.html

Check out this great picture on the Montgomery County Web site...it's a great panorma shot of the transit center and Ripley St. apartment projects!

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/DGS/DBDC/RegionalProjectPages/SilverSpringProjects/Images/sstc-january-2012-stitch.jpg

I know who took that photo and from where. ;)

Check out this great picture on the Montgomery County Web site...it's a great panorma shot of the transit center and Ripley St. apartment projects!

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/DGS/DBDC/RegionalProjectPages/SilverSpringProjects/Images/sstc-january-2012-stitch.jpg

I know who took that photo and from where. ;)
Too bad they have to redo the Transit Center. I wonder if the Purple Line will be in place before the Transit Center is finally completed. :ohno:

Too bad they have to redo the Transit Center. I wonder if the Purple Line will be in place before the Transit Center is finally completed. :ohno:

No they do not have to redo the transit center.

No they do not have to redo the transit center.
Elaborate.

MTA presents new option for maintenance shop, rail yard
by Aaron Kraut, Staff Writer

Residents in the Silver Spring community of Lyttonsville said they were satisfied with a revised plan from the Maryland Transit Administration that would move a Purple Line maintenance and rail yard facility to reduce impact on neighborhoods and nearby businesses.

About 70 people attended a community briefing on Wednesday at the Coffield Community Center, where Purple Line project manager Mike Madden unveiled a new design that would put a two-story maintenance shop and two-story parking structure west of Lyttonsville Place, behind Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission’s Lyttonsville Depot.

The previous plan, which elicited stern reaction from area residents and business owners at a meeting in October, had a maintenance facility, parking garage and stormwater management facility east of Lyttonsville Place, backing up to the Claridge House Apartments on Lyttonsville Road.

“We are pleased. They heard our concerns,” said nearby resident Loretta Argrett. “They listened. They responded.”

Madden said the option presented in October would have displaced 17 properties, including a row of businesses along the south side of Brookeville Road. The new option, which will require the realignment of Brookeville Road west of Lyttonsville Place, will displace five properties, including the businesses in the Party Warehouse building at the intersection.

Madden said the MTA spoke with WSSC, Montgomery County Planning and Montgomery County government officials about potential alternatives to the October plan. The new option will require some WSSC-owned land. MTA must still reconstruct the Lyttonsville Place bridge.

Read more here:

http://www.gazette.net/article/20120315/NEWS/703159752/1007/residents-pleased-with-revised-lyttonsville-purple-line-plan&template=gazette

akraut@gazette.net

I wonder how this will affect my workplace at the WSSC depot?

Huge trackhoe digging up much of the parking lot at 8711 Georgia Ave. Hopefully this means it really is finally under construction!

http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2012/02/georgia-avenue-groundbreaking-delayed.html

Note: the rendering in the above article is of the prior design of the building (when it was going to be office, not residential).

I grew up in Silver Spring. FYI, admission to the Silver Theater, which was air-conditioned when nothing else was in the 1950s, was $0.25.

Went to Northwood High (grad 1963). Is it still there?

I grew up in Silver Spring. FYI, admission to the Silver Theater, which was air-conditioned when nothing else was in the 1950s, was $0.25.

Went to Northwood High (grad 1963). Is it still there?

Northwood High is still around.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northwood_High_School_(Silver_Spring,_Maryland)

Is Eleven55 the tallest project going up?

Is Eleven55 the tallest project going up?

That is correct. Eleven55 is the tallest structure under construction in Silver Spring. Eleven55 is also the tallest structure under construction in MoCo.

I lived in Silver Spring and Bethesda from 2001-2003...loved them both. http://www.momshelper.info/wanhuan2.jpghttp://www.momshelper.info/2.jpghttp://www.momshelper.info/3.jpghttp://www.momshelper.info/6.jpg

Eleven55 has reached ground level. Hopefully after the podium, this highrise should rise fast.

I noticed a parking garage ramp being formed 1st floor above grade for Eleven55. How many floors of parking will be above grade?

Anybody know when La Madeline Bakery is slated to open in DTSS?

Huge trackhoe digging up much of the parking lot at 8711 Georgia Ave. Hopefully this means it really is finally under construction!

http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2012/02/georgia-avenue-groundbreaking-delayed.html

Note: the rendering in the above article is of the prior design of the building (when it was going to be office, not residential).

...and no more activity onsite.

Silver Spring Library Nearing Construction Start (http://dcmud.blogspot.com/2012/05/silver-spring-library-taking.html)

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mmHAiSUJ2oQ/T6GHY1LC3XI/AAAAAAAAANE/L4USFJvjGfU/s1600/feb+2012+rendering+1.png


The new Silver Spring Library, nearly 13 years in the making, is finally nearing construction as crews now work to relocate "dry utilities."

Don Scheuerman, section chief for project management at the county's Division of Building Design and Construction, said building permit applications were submitted, and staff is reviewing interested contractors, a list he expects to publish in about 30 days.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CsXXBOYTnHs/T6GAtPFsSXI/AAAAAAAAAMw/82CLRN7BQK4/s1600/feb+2012+rendering+2.png

The library now is planned as a 5-story, cast- stone building at Fenton Street and Wayne Avenue. A pavilion with a glass facade facing Fenton connected to the main building at the top of the second floor creates a covered path for the future Purple Line to pass through.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Eb2U09PLKQ/T6GA82sd4AI/AAAAAAAAAM4/bCEPGhXxvHk/s1600/feb+2012+rendering+3.png

The library will occupy the top three stories. Pyramid Atlantic will use the first two floors and the basement.

Initial designs released in 2009 showed a taller building with County offices on the sixth floor and library meeting space on the seventh floor.

The County has been working on the new library since at least 1999 when it approved funding. When completed, the new library will replace the existing Silver Spring Library -- the County's oldest community library.

The project officially broke ground in August 2010, but only site preparation was begun. Construction will hopefully start this fall. Total build-out should take about two years for a late 2014 opening.
[...]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M8a4pXf6zjU/T6vBabg4qHI/AAAAAAAAICo/BQMHl88Y8gQ/s1600/Silver%2520Spring%2520Library-001.jpg

Hah! I researched my high school term papers in the Silver Spring public library around 1960. Didn't look like this.

BREAKING NEWS ON CITY PLACE...I MEAN GALLERIA


http://petrieross.com/uploads/pdfs/Galleria-SilverSpring.pdf

BREAKING NEWS ON CITY PLACE...I MEAN GALLERIA


http://petrieross.com/uploads/pdfs/Galleria-SilverSpring.pdf

I'm impressed by most of it, but I would like them to do much more to the facade on Fenton Street/Ellsworth Drive across from the movies. (found on slide 23) It still looks very 50's/60's to me even with those minor "improvements", I would suggest taking down the entire corner/facade and making it fully glass.

Btw nice find!

^^Infoman, the project contained a tower above the mall in the early planning. Im not sure if that part is dead or not...

Yeah I do remember it being planned but still the facade isn't nice, I'm a fan of both classical and modern architecture and I don't deem this as classical so it needs to be re-done. But I do wonder if the tower is still coming or not, I guess we'll find out in some years.