Revamped Bus Barn Could Bring Retail to Upper 14th Street

• March 9th 2020

by Nena Perry-Brown

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A year after WMATA began discussing redevelopment of the 14th Street bus garage, we are getting an idea of how the mixed-use reuse could look.

WMATA has filed a concept application for historic review on the landmarked Northern Bus Garage at 14th and Buchanan Streets NW (map). The redevelopment would partially demolish the structure, and preserve and incorporate parts of the façade to deliver a new bus garage with up to 55,000 square feet of retail.

Previously known as the Decatur Street Car Barn, the structure has fallen into disrepair since it was constructed in 1906. The reconfigured garage would improve lighting, air quality, and bus circulation while creating clearance for diesel and, eventually, electric busses. It is unclear what tenants will occupy the retail fronting 14th Street, although the community has expressed an interest in a market (and would prefer the garage only house electric busses).

The 14th street level of the garage would be used for bus maintenance, while the partially below-grade level would be used for bus storage. There would also be solar canopies mounted above rooftop car parking. Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and Wendel contributed to the application. 

The Historic Preservation Review Board will consider the concept later this month; ANC 4C is expected to vote on the project this week.

This article originally published at https://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blog/a-look-at-the-proposed-14th-street-car-barn-redevelopment/16565.