JBG REQUESTS DEMOLITION PERMITS FOR 3 BETHESDA BUILDINGS (PHOTO)

Developer JBG has filed for demolition permits for 3 Wisconsin Avenue buildings next to Fairmont Plaza. The buildings are 7900, 7934 and 7924 Wisconsin Avenue. One interesting twist to this story, is that Fitness First, a gym located within the 7900 office building, has said it is remaining in place until October 31, 2019.

Here is the Fitness First statement to its customers from October 2013:

To all present and future Fitness First members:

I would like to put closure to an untrue rumor that Fitness First will not be renewing its lease next year. We have renewed it, and got the counter-signed document from our landlord last week!

On October 17, 2013, our landlord, JBG, signed a second amendment to our lease, thereby extending it through October 31, 2019 (6 more years, at the very least!)

We are proud to be serving the Bethesda community, and have many upgrades in store for our members. In addition to new ellipticals, treadmills, Keiser group cycle bikes and a major replacement of strength machines, we are remodeling many areas of the facility. New flooring in cardio and kids club, and a much needed facelift in the men’s and ladies locker rooms are some of the many upgrades you will experience over the next few months – you may have already have noticed the work in progress.

Fitness First has its own door, with a 7904 street number. But, it is still within the larger structure of 7900. The other two buildings in question are a house-like structure at 7924 Wisconsin, and the former oriental rug store at 7934 Wisconsin.

The eventual demolition will clear the way for JBG's 7900 Wisconsin mixed-use project, which will span the block between Wisconsin and Woodmont Avenues.

Rendering courtesy JBG, All rights reserved