WSSC Building Success at Hyattsville City Council Vote

The former Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) Headquarters in Hyattsville, Maryland is one step closer to being saved from the wrecking ball. On June 4, the Hyattsville City Council voted 6-4 against supporting the Magruder Pointe development concept plan, which requires an amendment to the zoned table of uses in order to move forward. The matter will ultimately be decided by Prince George's County, and will come before the county Planning Board on July 12.

At the City Council meeting, Hyattsville residents, including an organized group that calls itself Save Our Sustainable Hyattsville (SOS Hyattsville), spoke out against the plan. Opposition platforms included historic preservation, environmental impact, affordable housing needs, and community space. SOS Hyattsville's advocacy efforts are a strong example of the effectiveness of advocating for historic preservation as part of a broader agenda that links many community interests including sustainability and smart growth.

Residents in opposition to the Magruder Pointe development hold up "Vote No" signs at the Hyattsville City Council Meeting.

The WSSC building is composed of three three wings, including a 1964 modern design with playful mid-century details. Photo by Lucy Moore.