On October 13, 2007, the County Board voted unanimously to redevelop the Contis properties at 1716 Wilson Boulevard and to extend Quinn Street between Wilson and Clarendon Boulevards. The new street  will break up the “super-block” allowing connections to Colonial Village shopping center and incorporate a pedestrian plaza.

 

In 2010, Skanska purchased the approved site plan from previous owner/developer Dr. Contis and progressed with demolition. The project broke ground on February 24, 2011, and will include a green roof and other efficiency features to upgrade the development from LEED Silver to LEED Platinum rating.

 

The new 108,753 square foot office building, designed by RTKL, will include ground level retail on three sides. The building replaces the Arlington Motor Cars, and the Medical Services building on Wilson Boulevard across from Colonial Village. The development will provide retail shops on the ground floor along Wilson and Clarendon Boulevards with parking underground.

 

The site plan received a .25 FAR bonus for its original LEED Silver rating and .25 FAR bonus for assistance with Quinn Street extension. This proposal required re-zoning of the site from RA6-15, C-1 & C-2 to C-O-2.5, as well as a General Land Use Plan Amendment From Service Commercial to Med. O-A-H. Design guidance for this development is provided in the Rosslyn to Courthouse Urban Design Study.

 

Skanska's 1776 Wilson Boulevard project