D.C. would allow Fletcher-Johnson land sales and long-term leases

The Council would declare the covered land unneeded for public use and allow the mayor to lease or sell it. This covers 4650 Benning Road SE, excluding land the District keeps. Both sides would need to sign agreements and meet or waive the conditions for completing each deal. For the residential project, financing commitments, the final funding plan and budget, and governmental approvals would need District approval or satisfaction under the closing terms. The mayor’s authority to transfer the land would expire 10 years after the act takes effect.

D.C. would lease the emergency-care parcel for 75 years and most other leased land for 99 years, and sell the townhome land. The draft terms cover emergency care, rental housing, townhomes and the park. Rent would be paid in advance at closing. The park lease could be shorter than 99 years. These are proposed agreement terms that would apply when the land deals close.

Fletcher-Johnson Community Partners would reserve at least 30% of its planned homes as affordable housing. Both rentals and townhomes are planned. Income caps would be 30%, 50%, or 80% of the area’s median family income, depending on the home and household size. One option concentrates most affordable homes in a facility for people with memory loss; otherwise, each residential parcel must meet affordability rules.

D.C.’s deputy mayor for planning and economic development could make the named grant despite the District’s general grant law. The award would support District Hospital Partners, LP’s emergency department at 4650 Benning Road SE. The draft agreement requires available funds, an application, and a grant agreement covering eligible project costs. The draft agreement calls for payment in fiscal year 2027, as soon as funds are available and no later than the lease is finalized.