Holland & Knight Represents Howard University on Rezoning of 27 Acres Along Georgia Avenue Corridor

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 17, 2024) – Holland & Knight advised Howard University on its petition to rezone approximately 27 acres to permit mixed-use, high-density development along the east side of Georgia Avenue, from Euclid Street south to Florida Avenue. The D.C. Zoning Commission took proposed action preliminarily approving the rezoning on December 16, by a vote of 4-0.

The majority of the property to be rezoned is within the boundaries of the Howard University Central Campus Master Plan. The rezoning will facilitate development projects within the Campus Master Plan, including the redevelopment of the Wonder Plaza site located at 2301 Georgia Ave. with a new mixed-use building that contains approximately 280 student housing units (592 beds), ground floor retail, a student dining hall and a new comprehensive wellness center. The rezoning is also critical to the planned expansion of Howard University Hospital and the redevelopment of the parcels surrounding the hospital site.

Holland & Knight has a long-standing relationship with Howard University, having represented Howard and its development partners on several projects on and near Howard's main campus. Holland & Knight also represents Howard on two buildings it controls at the historic Parks at Walter Reed, formerly the Walter Reed Army Medical Center Campus. Howard's real estate team development is led by Vice President and Chief Real Estate Officer Anthony Freeman and Planning & Architecture Assistant Vice President Derrek Niec-Williams.

Based in Washington, D.C., and founded in 1867, Howard University is a private research university comprised of 14 schools and colleges. Ben Vinson III, Ph.D., is currently serving as the university's 18th president.

Holland & Knight Partner Leila Batties led the firm's representation of Howard University for the rezoning of the property along the Georgia Avenue corridor. She was assisted by Associate John Oliver.