That sidewalk construction in front of the Bainbridge has partly been to bring the street up to the established Bethesda Streetscape standards, including brick pavers. It also involves the driveway leading from Fairmont into the Bainbridge loading dock.
However, according to representatives of White Flint Realty Express Group, LLC, the new sidewalk is 6-7" higher than the original sidewalk in front of 4909 Fairmont Avenue. This uneven surface could restrict access for the disabled to future tenants of that property (or a new structure there, should it be redeveloped), could create a tripping hazard for pedestrians, and would trap rainwater on the 4909 patio, according to an analysis by WFREG's consultant, architect Steven J. Karr.
It certainly appears Karr's concern is legitimate, based upon these photos he furnished to Montgomery County and Bethesda Urban Partnership, among other relevant officials. Click on the photos to enlarge for greater detail.
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3 comments:
Wait, what? So you're saying the builder's plan for the area that's currently dirt is to have a step? I very much doubt that'll be the case. Maybe I'm misunderstanding what the problem area is.
That's what happens when you "bust" your grade work & construct your ground floor too high! Then figure you can "push" the bust onto your neighbor's property & let the next guy figure it out! - just my opinion.
I was just over there. How will they fix this? There's a major difference in height. Is a ramp feasible? A major embarrassment.
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