The Grove at Parkside Becomes a Sociable, TOD Magnet

With wide-ranging real estate expertise, Gilbane Development Co. was ready to bring upscale affordable housing to a small, less than 1-acre site in Washington, D.C. It had ample challenges to surmount, however.

First, the property was isolated—bounded by a river, major highways, and a decommissioned power plant. Second, the project was to house a mix of residents—singles and families—who could only afford to pay 30% to 60% of the area median income, now $110,300. Third, the project needed to be green and adhere to Enterprise Green Communities Criteria. Lastly, it had to offer a sense of security.

Working with architects at Grimm and Parker and builder KBS, and involving the community, Gilbane more than met all needs. The six-story structure sheathed in cement panels and masonry features parking in a partially subgrade lot, for safety; requires a key fob for entry; and has a secure interior landscaped courtyard as well as secure bicycle racks.

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Differently sized units appeal to the varied target markets who would want to live here, but each apartment includes a full kitchen as well as a washer–dryer and granite countertops. And residents benefit from adherence to sustainable features too—with total first-year energy savings to the tune of $92,000.

To encourage the important desired sense of community and interaction between residents, the amenities were carefully selected and include a clubroom with Wi-Fi, a courtyard, and a business center. The property has also become part of the larger Parkside community master plan, with transit-oriented development options including bus, subway, future streetcar stops, and the nearby Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, a 20-mile-long path for cyclists, runners, and skaters.

Lease-up was completed in 90 days. Since its completion last fall, The Grove has become a part of the ongoing revitalization of its ward.