HPRB Approves McMillan Plans: New Renderings

• November 1st 2013

by Shilpi Paul

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On Thursday, Vision McMillan Partners (VMP) received the go-ahead from the Historic Preservation Review Board to move forward with their master plan and building concepts for the redevelopment of the McMillan Sand Filtration site.

The HPRB voted unanimously to support the Historic Preservation staff report, which was largely supportive of the newest version of the plan. They offered supportive commentary on both the master plan and the individual buildings, with some targeted suggestions on how to improve upon specifics of the building designs.

“The latest version of the master plan represents a significant improvement over previous versions,” states the report. “Both individually and collectively, the revised concepts are dramatically improved, reflecting the high level of quality, cohesiveness, and distinctiveness that have been sought by the board.”

Earlier this month, we outlined some of the revisions to the plan here. The largest changes include greater cohesiveness between all the buildings in regards to materials and geometry, and the plan to rebuild the Olmstead Walk around the entire perimeter of the site. They are also now maintaining the 20 existing above-ground silos, and two of the underground cells.

“You guys have done a much better job making this an attraction for both the surrounding residents and folks from outside the area and the city,” said Board member Charles Wilson.

Gretchen Pfaehler, the HPRB chair, applauded the increased uniformity and cohesiveness of the buildings. She, along with other HPRB members, felt that the black and white color differences were sometimes too stark, and advised the team to “take care” when selecting materials.

“We have generally agreed that it’s time for McMillan to be of use to the city and be redeveloped in some fashion,” said Board member Graham Davidson. “It’s time to bring this phase to a close and move on.”

VMP still has several approvals to gain.

Because the plans require significant demolition of the underground cells, and the extent of the demolition “is inconsistent with the purposes of the Historic Landmark and Historic District Protection Act,” according to the report, VMP must present their plans to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) for a 30-day commentary period.

Pfaehler recommended that VMP prepare clear documentation of the scope, schedule and cost of the restoration of the historic elements for the ACHP.

From there, the developers will present their PUD to the Zoning Commission, and will meet with the Mayor’s Agent to “make a case that the redevelopment represents a project of special merit.” According the PoPville, they hope to start construction next summer.

A fly-through video and more renderings below:

Similar Posts:

• New Plans for the McMillan Sand Filtration Redevelopment
• HPRB Has Lengthy List of Critiques For McMillan Redevelopment

This article originally published at https://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blog/hprb_approves_mcmillan_plans_new_renderings/7770.