College Park Approves New Mixed-Use Project

Last week, the College Park (MD) City Council voted unanimously to approve a mixed-used development proposed by JPI Management for the intersection of Route 1 and Cherokee Street that would include 160 condo units, a 4,000-sf gym, and 35,000 sf of retail, all surrounded by 45 townhouses. This development was at first rejected in 2005 when presented to the Prince George’s County Council, which expressed concern that the original plans for a residential-only project did not conform to the College Park’s master plan for Route 1. However, JPI’s reconfiguration of the project to a mixed-use development has dissipated this opposition. JPI has also agreed to provide shuttle bus service for residents of this development through 2010 to help ease congestion along Route 1. Construction is expected to begin in early 2007, with a completion date of early 2008.