News On The Avenue: New Apartments At Old Ice Palace

The current home of Pier 1 and Office Depot is set for demolition. In its place, developer BF Saul intends to build a 273-unit apartment building with retail at the ground level. David Alpert of the Greater Greater Washington blog has more info on the plans. ANC 3F will invite BF Saul to present the plans at an upcoming meeting, but the community will have no input, as this is a “matter-of-right” project as long as it stays within zoning codes. (Greater Greater Washington)

The building at 4455 Connecticut has long been a part of local history. It opened as the Chevy Chase Ice Palace and Sports Center in 1938. (Streets of Washington)

The past few months have been turbulent for the District’s public university. In December, UDC fired its president, Alan Sessoms. A month later, it cut nearly 100 staff and faculty positions. (Washington Post)

Greener UDC campus. UDC has received a $25,000 grant from Verizon that will help fund the construction of four teaching gardens on the Van Ness campus. Called “Gardens of the Senses,” one garden will be devoted to colors and sights, the others to scent, touch and plant research. (UDC)

New bikeshare stations coming soon. In addition to the Capital Bikeshare station at the Van Ness Metro stop, Forest Hills is getting new stations near Albemarle Street and Nebraska Avenue. Watch this space for more information. (Capital Bikeshare)