NOTICE -- WATERFRONT MALL CLOSING - Notice to ANC 6D Commissioners

From: Fraley, Gordon [mailto:gfraley@vno.com]
Sent: Wednesday, August 22, 2007 1:13 PM

Subject: WATERFRONT NOTICE -- MALL CLOSING
 
ANC 6D Commissioners:
 
Yesterday signs were posted at the Mall stating that it will be closing permanently between the 8th and 15th of September.  I also received a copy of the September Southwester today, which reported on the same notice given at the July 23rd SWNA meeting.  We will also be notifying SWNA, MPD, PSA 104, SWAT, Marina View Towers, and Town Center East.
 
As you know we have been working for some time to relocate CVS and Bank of America to temporary buildings along M Street and we anticipate both moves occurring in the coming weeks.  As I’ve previously stated, their moves are contingent on utilities and permits so I cannot give a definitive date at this time, but we do expect both tenants to have moved prior to the second week of September making way for the closing of the Mall.  Once they are relocated, it will hopefully take 1 – 2 months to acquire the necessary raze permit for commencing demolition.  In the interim period, the following activities will be taking place:
 
Complete interior demolition and abatement
Disconnect all utilities
Continuation of the pest control program
File all required clearance letters with DCRA
Mobilization for commencement of demolition
 
Once the raze permit is in place demolition and new construction will proceed immediately.  We currently anticipate the first phase of construction opening as early as late 2009 and being phased on over the first half of 2010.
 
Other changes to operations that will coincide with the closing of the Mall include:
 
The Watkins security office will be relocated just behind the new Bank of America.  Signage will be posted identifying their new location.
When the Mall is closed between the 8th and 15th of September, the parking north of the mall will also be closed.
Retail parking on the south side of the site will be limited to 1 hour and monitored by Watkins.
Metro and Safeway access will remain as is during the initial phase of demolition and construction.  More details on construction around the metro will be provided in advance, prior to commencing any work.
 
If you have any questions, please contact David or me.
 
Sincerely,                                 
                                                                              
Gordon Fraley
Development Manager

Vornado/Charles E. Smith
2345 Crystal Drive, Suite 1000
Arlington Virginia 22202
Phone: (703) 769-1101
Fax: (703) 842-1460
Email: gfraley@vno.com
 
 
David R. Smith
Development Manager
 
Forest City Washington
1615 L Street, NW, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 496-6600
Fax: (202) 4496-6659
Email: DavidSmith@ForestCity.net