Bates Area Civic Association

I thought I’d share with the community my knowledge of what’s happening with the old Bates Market, on the corner of 3rd and P St NW, which has been empty for two years now.  I’ve been in touch pretty regularly with the new owner of the property.  As he tells it,  he has been trying to get the renovation permits and has faced a nightmare in dealing with DCRA.  I think the nightmare initially was because he started the renovation process before he had the proper permits.  Though the facade looks the same, the inside of the building is completely gutted. The floors have been knocked out and there is just one big hollow space.

Rumors I’ve heard is that he wants to put a Georgian Social Club there, and I think that is true, but only partially. He intends that to be in the upper part of the building, and more for use on weekends or occasions.  He has told me that he intends to also put a wine store in the lower part.  Hopefully that will include a wine bar, but I’m not certain.  I believe the building already is zoned to sell liquor, so the liquor license is not his problem.  He’s been very nice in my communications with him, and is interested in the community interest in the building. He’s also a professor at GWU. I will keep you posted as I hear more.