Tonight the Planning Commission of Fairfax County recommended approval of LCORs redevelopment for the Commons of McLean, located in eastern Tysons. The project includes seven mid/high-rise residential buildings ranging from 6-stories to 23-stories.
Some commissioners voiced concern over the lack of represented retail use. “The statement on retail should be stronger” noted Commissioner Donahue in reference to proffer language.
County staff assured the Commissioner that the intent is for retail to be provided, but demonstration of that space was not incorporated in order to allow for the greatest flexibility as to when and where that retail would occur dependent on market conditions. Ultimately each building FDP will be reviewed for the inclusion, or lack of, retail within the building. “We were trying to allow them to change over time.”
The project has also submitted a final development plan for Building 1, located at the intersection of Anderson Road and Chain Bridge Road at the north corner of the property and standing at 13-stories. This will be an important phasing element to progress on neighboring Scotts Run Station (by Cityline) by providing the right of way necessary to construct Colshire Meadow Road, which is integral to the grid of streets in eastern Tysons.
The project will now go before the Board of Supervisors in June for final approval. Ultimately, the final build out for Commons of McLean will include 2500 residential units. LCOR has noted they plan on breaking ground on Building 1 in the second half of 2014.
