Chevy Chase ANC 3/4G reviews draft zoning application for Engleside Medical Campus; commissioners voice concerns over environmental impact and development scope.
The Chevy Chase Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) reviewed a draft medical campus plan zoning application from Engleside on October 26, 2026, with particular attention paid to the potential removal of approximately 240 trees, including heritage trees. Land use attorney Ed Donaghue, hired by the ANC, presented the plan, noting that while it is a draft and not yet submitted to the zoning commission, it outlines significant construction and environmental considerations.
Donaghue highlighted that the proposed development would necessitate the removal of a substantial number of trees. “They’re going to be removing a number of trees and they mentioned a couple of heritage trees,” Donaghue stated, adding that while some relocation was mentioned, the details were vague. He emphasized the need for discussions regarding replanting and landscaping to mitigate the impact on views.
The application marks a shift from previous modifications handled through special exceptions to a campus plan, a category the zoning commission has not previously reviewed for a medical facility. Donaghue noted that the plan is thorough but lacks a formal transportation plan, which is promised 30 days prior to the hearing. He encouraged Engleside to share this plan earlier due to the project’s scale and potential impact on campus and local roads.
Commissioners raised questions about the scope and duration of the medical campus plan, the maximum development envelope, and future development possibilities. Paul Tums, representing Engleside, clarified that the current application covers existing buildings, an addition to the manor house, and the replacement of a specific property, but does not establish an envelope for future development. He explained that any proposed development not included in the current application would require an amendment and follow the same review procedures. Tums added that the medical campus plan process was created to provide a more holistic review of such facilities, similar to how universities are assessed.
Commissioner Peter Goslin inquired about the consequences of not applying under the campus model, to which Tums responded that the process is intended to encourage such applications for better holistic review by agencies like DOT and the Office of Planning. Ed Donaghue concurred that the ANC would have party status in either review process.
Commissioner Bruce Sherman expressed sympathy for retirement communities and noted his district includes residents considering such facilities. He asked about the amendment process for a medical campus plan and the anticipated timeframe for Engleside to seek amendments. Tums indicated that amendments would be required for developments not included in the current plan and that such processes typically occur over a period of years, citing a previous campus plan approval from 2014.
Sherman also questioned the ANC’s prerogatives in representing constituent interests at the zoning commission. Donaghue proposed working collaboratively with Engleside, the Office of Planning, and nearby residents to establish development conditions that address concerns such as construction, tree removal, and other impacts.
The ANC also discussed potential future actions, including Engleside hosting a meeting on-site for residents in close proximity to the campus to address specific concerns. The meeting also touched upon the potential for a resolution opposing the surplus of civic core property and a discussion regarding the Monumental Arch at Memorial Circle.
Source: ANC Meeting, October 26, 2026
