High-Rise Plans Draw Complaints

The proposed building -- referred to as "The Fairmount" because of the existing five-story structure by that name at the site -- will bring "architectural relief to the area" by virtue of its steel and glass design, Savela said. Its construction also offers the county a major bonus: A new west-side entrance for the Ballston Metro station. The developer, The JBG Companies, agreed to build the Metro entrance in exchange for "bonus density" -- additional square footage.

"That entrance has been desired for a long time," Savela said, adding, "And it will really help the property values in that area."

As important as the Metro station is to the area's residents, Elliott said, the group opposes the county's bonus density deal with The JBG Companies.

Residents are not opposed to the additional space but believe the deal should cover only the company's estimated $8 million cost for the Metro entrance and should not be used as leverage to build a 23-story tower, Elliott said. Residents also have suggested that the company use the additional space to create larger residential units in a shorter building or transfer the space allowance to one of JBG's other projects in the area. Among them is the Bob Peck Chevrolet dealership that JBG plans to build nearby.

"It gives us nightmares just thinking about it," Elliot said, adding that many residents of the Continental paid a premium to have a great view from their condos and that a 23-story building next door would ruin that.

Ken Finkelstein, a partner at The JBG Companies, said company executives are "taking into consideration as best we can the concerns that people . . . have expressed about the projects."

He said he met several days ago with two representatives from the Continental and that a dialogue between the groups continues. Still, Finkelstein said, JBG is "doing what is within the framework and zoning regulations" mandated by the county.

Savela said county officials this week were examining the residents' challenges and studying the project's blueprints.

"We know there's a concern that the county is so committed to the new Metro entrance that all other concerns that have been raised are being ignored, and that can't be further from the truth," she said. "Residents have been so thoughtful, and that has really caused everyone to be that much more thoughtful in their review of this plan and in working out the details. The community's involvement has really improved this project."

Residents will be able to share their concerns with county officials at public meetings next month, including one Sept. 1, sponsored by the county traffic commission; Sept. 6 with the Planning Commission; and Sept. 17 before the Arlington County Board.