DFM Development Services is happy to share its Permitting Services team is leading permit expediting for a new affordable senior housing development in Washington, D.C.
As permit expediter, DFM is working with the developer, the National Caucus & Center on Black Aging Housing Development Corporation (NCBA HDC), and D.C.’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) to obtain the required building permits for the project.
Samuel J. Simmons NCBA Estates Expansion
Located at 2801 14th St. NW along D.C.’s 14th Street Corridor, the project is an expansion of the Samuel J. Simmons NCBA Estates. Currently, the Simmons Estates provides 175 residential units for senior citizens. Once complete, the project will add another 179 units for low-income senior citizens, including 36 “grand-family” units for grandparents raising grandchildren in the Columbia Heights neighborhood.
Dubbed the Carl F. West Estates, the 227,000 SF expansion calls for constructing a two-level underground parking garage. Plans also call for expanding building amenities. Residents will gain a host of new features, including a concierge, salon, lounge, wellness center, computer and business center, library, fitness and exercise space, activity rooms, outdoor patio, and playground.
Permit Expediting
DFM’s team of permit expediting experts has already begun the intricate process of reviewing and assembling all required plans and supporting documents for the project’s permit application. A careful study of each drawing and plan element is underway to identify building code issues and adherence to zoning regulations. Identifying construction code and compliance issues at the project’s outset will ensure DCRA doesn’t place a hold on the permit application following plan submittal.
Following DFM’s internal assessment, its team will share the final code-compliant plans with DCRA for plan review and approval. Before issuing a final building permit, DCRA’s reviewers will thoroughly examine all drawings and construction plans to ensure compliance with D.C.’s building codes and zoning regulations. Without DCRA’s final building permit in hand, the project cannot move forward.
Expediting Certificates of Occupancy
DFM’s Permitting Services team is also working to expedite property occupancy certificates. Issued by DCRA, a certificate of occupancy or “C of O” is required before anyone attempts to occupy the premises. This vital process ensures that the building, structure, and surrounding land conform to D.C.’s construction codes and zoning regulations and is safe to inhabit.
DFM’s permitting services team will continue to work with NCBA HDC throughout the project, which will run through the Summer of 2024.
DFM Development Services – Expediting Permits for Affordable Housing Developments
The push to build more affordable housing is apparent across all eight city wards. In just the last 12 months, DFM Development Services and its Permitting Services team has led permit expediting for several new communities, including The Wagner Building in Skyland, the Entwine in Takoma, and The Soapstone in Brightwood.
For more information and to learn how DFM Development Services can accelerate the permit review and approval process for your next project, email proposals@dfmdevelopment.com or call 703-942-8700.
