SomeraRoad Files Revised Plan for Martin & Merritt Project — All Eyes on Metro Council
A proposed boutique hotel and residence in Wedgewood Houston
WEDGEWOOD-HOUSTON, April 2025 — The future of one of WeHo’s most significant development proposals just took a sharp turn.
Developer SomeraRoad has officially submitted a revised Specific Plan (SP) for the Martin & Merritt Project, now including the long-debated “Option C” alleyway design — a solution supported by the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT) and crafted in response to community feedback from the April 7th meeting at Diskin Cider.
But while this revision marks progress, the path forward is far from certain.
At this critical juncture, Council Member Terry Vo’s support will make or break the project.Without her backing, this $375 million mixed-use development could be paused indefinitely, sold off, or replaced with something far less collaborative — or beneficial — to the WeHo community.
If approved, the Martin & Merritt Project will transform 4.03 acres at Martin Street and Merritt Avenue into a vibrant, community-centered hub:
Hotel: Up to 160 rooms (110,000 sq ft)
Residential: 200 multifamily units (240,000 sq ft)
Commercial: 18,700 sq ft of retail and dining
Public Space: Parks, plazas, art installations
Total Development: 375,245 sq ft
Floor Area Ratio: 2.14
Martin & Merritt Project - Community FAQ
GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION
Q: What exactly is the Martin & Merritt Project?
A: The Martin & Merritt Project is a mixed-use development spanning two distinct parcels in Wedgewood-Houston. The Martin component (northern parcel, zoned IR - Industrial Restrictive) repurposes the former Martin Manufacturing warehouse into creative maker spaces, a food hall, and offices. The Merritt component (southern parcel, zoned RM20) includes 65 residential units in three-story buildings, creating a transition between commercial and residential areas.
Q: Who is developing this project?
A: The project is led by SomeraRoad, a national real estate investment and development firm with several completed and ongoing projects in Nashville, including other adaptive reuse projects in transitional neighborhoods.
Q: What is the current status of the project?
A: The project is currently in the review phase. The Martin component is undergoing Site Plan Review and Arts District Compatibility Review, while the Merritt component is being evaluated for compliance with residential design standards. Both components must receive Metro Planning Commission approval before proceeding.
Q: What is the timeline for approval and construction?
A: If approved by the Planning Commission, the project will proceed through three public Metro Council readings for the necessary rezoning. Construction would follow thereafter, with an estimated 18-24 month construction period. The Martin component is expected to begin first, with the Merritt residential portion following approximately 4-6 months later.
THE TWO COMPONENTS
Q: Why is the project split into two different parcels?
A: The project spans two distinct zoning districts—IR (Industrial Restrictive) and RM20 (Multi-Family Residential)—each with different permitted uses and development standards. This division allows the Martin component to maintain industrial character while the Merritt component provides appropriate residential transition.
Q: How will the two components connect?
A: A pedestrian plaza and landscaped pathway will connect the Martin and Merritt components, creating a coherent development while respecting the different characters of each zone. The transition area includes stepped building heights, landscaping, and shared public space amenities.
Q: Will the two components be built simultaneously?
A: The current construction plan shows the Martin component beginning first, with the Merritt residential portion starting 4-6 months later. This phased approach aims to minimize neighborhood disruption and address the different approval processes for each component.
DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
Q: How tall will the buildings be?
A: The Martin component will preserve the existing 2-story warehouse height with a partial third-story addition set back from the façade. The Merritt residential buildings will be three stories (35 feet) at maximum, with lower heights (2 stories/24 feet) along the edges adjacent to existing single-family homes.
Q: How many residential units will be included?
A: The Merritt component includes 65 residential units: 24 townhomes and 41 stacked flats in three-story buildings. Unit sizes range from 700 sq ft (1BR) to 1,800 sq ft (3BR).
Q: Will there be affordable housing?
A: Yes, 15% of the residential units (10 units) will be designated as affordable for households earning 80% of Area Median Income. Additionally, 5 below-market rate artist live/work spaces will be included in the Martin component.
Q: How will the project preserve the industrial character of Wedgewood-Houston?
A: The Martin component will preserve the brick façade and structural elements of the historic warehouse. Design elements include exposed brick, large industrial windows, metal accents, and an interior atrium showcasing original trusses and machinery as public art installations.
TRAFFIC & PARKING
Q: How will this project affect traffic on Martin Street and Merritt Avenue?
A: A Traffic Impact Study conducted by RPM Transportation Consultants indicates a projected increase of approximately 120 vehicle trips during peak evening hours. To mitigate impacts, the development includes:
Separate entrances for the Martin and Merritt components
Left-turn lane on Merritt Avenue
Improved pedestrian crossings at Martin and Merritt intersection
Designated rideshare pickup/dropoff zones
Q: Will there be enough parking?
A: Yes. The Martin component provides 112 parking spaces (80 surface, 32 structured), exceeding the 95 required by code. The Merritt component includes 98 spaces (72 garage spaces within townhomes, 26 surface spaces), meeting the 98 required for residential use. Additionally, a shared parking agreement maximizes efficiency between daytime commercial and evening residential needs.
Q: How will construction traffic be managed?
A: A Construction Management Plan has been developed that includes:
Designated construction vehicle routes avoiding residential streets
Off-site parking for construction workers
Scheduled delivery windows to avoid peak traffic hours
Regular street cleaning
A neighborhood liaison to address concerns during construction
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Q: What benefits will the community see from this project?
A:
Martin Component:
5,000 sq ft maker space with shared equipment and below-market rents
Public food hall featuring local vendors
8,000 sq ft public plaza with event space
Preservation of historic industrial elements
Merritt Component:
Affordable housing units
12,000 sq ft pocket park
Enhanced sidewalks and pedestrian connections
Stormwater management improvements benefiting surrounding properties
Q: Will this change the character of the neighborhood?
A: The project aims to enhance rather than fundamentally change the neighborhood character. The Martin component preserves industrial heritage through adaptive reuse, while the Merritt component provides a transitional scale between commercial and single-family areas. Community input has shaped numerous design elements to ensure compatibility.
COMMERCIAL USES
Q: What types of businesses will occupy the commercial spaces?
A: The Martin component will include:
A food hall featuring 8-10 local food vendors
Creative office space targeted to design professionals and tech startups
Maker spaces for artists and craftspeople
A small (2,500 sq ft) neighborhood-serving retail space
Q: Will there be loud bars or late-night establishments?
A: The project does not include plans for late-night bars or entertainment venues. The food hall will operate until 10pm on weekdays and 11pm on weekends, with sound mitigation measures in place. All commercial uses must comply with the noise limitations established in the IR zoning district.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & PROCESS
Q: How has the community been involved so far?
A: The development team has conducted extensive community engagement, including:
Four public community meetings
Two design charrettes with the Wedgewood-Houston Neighborhood Association
A project website with feedback mechanisms
Individual meetings with adjacent property owners
Presentations to the Arts District Committee
Q: What changes have been made based on community input?
A:
Reduced height of residential buildings adjacent to single-family homes
Increased setbacks along southern property line
Added public pocket park
Enhanced stormwater management systems
Expanded maker space allocation
Modified architectural details to better reflect neighborhood character
Q: What's next in the approval process?
A:
Planning Commission vote (scheduled for May 12)
Three Metro Council public readings for rezoning components (tentatively June-July)
Final Development Plan review
Building permit process
Q: How can I stay informed about updates?
A: You can:
Sign up for project updates at MartinAndMerrittProject.com
Attend monthly Wedgewood-Houston Neighborhood Association meetings
Contact the project's community liaison at community@martinandmerritt.com
Follow @WeHoDevelopment on social media platforms
CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS
Q: When will construction begin and how long will it last?
A: If approvals proceed as scheduled, site preparation would begin in Fall 2025, with the Martin component construction starting in early 2026. The entire project is expected to take 24-30 months, with the Martin component completing first, followed by the Merritt residential portion.
Q: How will construction noise and dust be managed?
A: The Construction Management Plan includes:
Compliance with Metro Nashville noise ordinances (work limited to 7am-7pm weekdays, 8am-5pm Saturdays)
Dust control measures including site watering and temporary fencing
Vibration monitoring for adjacent historic structures
Advanced notification of especially noisy construction phases
Regular cleanup of surrounding streets
Q: Will construction block neighborhood streets?
A: Lane closures will be limited and scheduled to minimize disruption. The Construction Management Plan includes:
No complete street closures on Martin Street or Merritt Avenue
Temporary lane closures limited to off-peak hours when necessary
Flaggers to direct traffic during deliveries
Preservation of pedestrian access throughout construction
ZONING AND REGULATIONS
Q: What zoning changes are required for this project?
A: The Martin component requires no zoning changes as the proposed uses are permitted within the IR (Industrial Restrictive) zone. The Merritt component requires a Specific Plan (SP) rezoning from RM20 to allow for the proposed townhome configuration and shared amenities.
Q: Who reviews and approves the different components?
A:
Martin Component: Metro Planning Department, Industrial Districts Design Review Committee, Arts District Advisory Committee
Merritt Component: Metro Planning Department, Metro Planning Commission, Metro Council
Q: What happens if only one component is approved?
A: While designed as a cohesive development, each component can function independently if necessary. The developers have contingency plans that would allow either component to proceed if the other faces delays, though their strong preference is for the complete vision to be realized.
PROPERTY VALUES AND NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACT
Q: How might this project affect surrounding property values?
A: Based on similar developments in Nashville and other cities, well-executed mixed-use projects typically have a positive effect on surrounding property values. The preservation of industrial character in the Martin component and the appropriate scale of the Merritt component are designed to enhance neighborhood character while minimizing negative impacts.
Q: Will this project lead to increased property taxes for nearby homeowners?
A: Property tax assessments are conducted by the Metro Nashville Property Assessor's Office independent of specific development projects. While neighborhood improvements generally contribute to property value increases over time, any potential tax impacts would be subject to assessment cycles and tax rate determinations by Metro Government.
Q: How will stormwater runoff be managed?
A: The project includes comprehensive stormwater management features:
Underground detention system sized 15% beyond code requirements
Permeable pavement in plaza and parking areas
Bioretention areas in the pocket park
Green roof elements on portions of both components
These systems are designed to improve current conditions and reduce flooding concerns on adjacent properties.
Community Update: The Martin & Merritt Development
Special Edition: Resident Concerns and Demands
Date: April 11, 2025
Dear Neighbors,
This special edition of our community newsletter focuses on the proposed Martin & Merritt Hotel & Residences development and the strong concerns raised by Hamilton Avenue residents.
As you know, this project has significant implications for our neighborhood, and we want to ensure everyone is informed about the key issues.
The Issue: Resident Preference vs. Metro Policy
The Martin & Merritt development offers three design options, each with different trade-offs. After a community meeting on April 7, 2025, Hamilton Avenue residents, who are directly affected by this project, overwhelmingly (100%!) supported Option A. This option features an alley connection to Hamilton Avenue with hidden loading, prioritizing safety and public space.
Why Option A?
Safety First: Option A significantly reduces the danger of commercial vehicles navigating Merritt Avenue's steep slope, a major safety concern.
Public Space: It provides the largest and most cohesive public plaza (8,500 SF), a valuable community asset.
Commercial Benefits: Continuous retail frontage creates opportunities for neighborhood-serving businesses.
Equitable Impact: While it brings some service traffic to Hamilton Avenue, it distributes the impact more fairly across the neighborhood.
Metro's Resistance: Unclear and Concerning
Despite the clear resident preference, Metro policymakers have expressed resistance to the Hamilton Avenue connection, citing vague "character area requirements" from a 2019 plan.
have failed to provide:
Specific safety concerns about the Hamilton alleyway connection.
Clear explanations of the relevant ordinances or regulations.
A comprehensive analysis of the safety risks associated with the alternative options.
Hamilton Avenue Residents' Demands:
Evidence-Based Decision Making: We demand a thorough safety analysis comparing the risks of service traffic on Hamilton Avenue versus commercial vehicle operations on Merritt Avenue's steep slope.
Transparency: We require clear and specific information regarding the ordinances or regulations that prohibit the Hamilton connection.
Respect for Resident Voice: Our unanimous support for Option A must be acknowledged and respected.
Community First: We urge metro to prioritize the safety and community values of the wedgewood-Houston residents.
Key Takeaways from the April 7th Meeting:
An overwhelming majority of Hamilton Avenue residents present supported Option A.
Over 50% of the meeting attendees voiced support for the project, with 100% of Hamilton avenue residents present Support the project.
The NDOT representative could not articulate specific safety concerns about option A.
The developer provided safety data showing the danger of loading on the Merritt Ave slope.
What You Can Do:
Stay Informed: Visit www.wedgewoodhouston.org
Contact Metro Officials: Express your support for Option A and demand transparency.
Spread the Word: Share this newsletter with your neighbors.
Attend Future Meetings: Stay engaged in the decision-making process.
We are a community that values safety, transparency, and resident input. Let's work together to ensure the Martin & Merritt development enhances our neighborhood for everyone.
Meeting Brief
April 7, 2025
MARTIN & MERRITT DEVELOPMENT: ADDRESSING COMMUNITY CONCERNS
Following Tuesday's community meeting at Diskin Cider, we want to provide clarity on the revised Martin & Merritt Hotel & Residences proposal. Council Member Vo called the April 7th meeting specifically to address misinformation that has been circulating about the project and to provide residents with accurate details about the development team's current plans.
Meeting Highlights
The meeting brought together concerned residents, the development team, and city officials in what was at times a tense atmosphere. Many neighbors expressed concerns about building height, traffic impacts, and neighborhood character. The development team presented their significantly revised plans, which include substantial reductions in building height and enhanced community benefits.
Prior to the formal meeting, the design team hosted a "Walk and Talk" site tour, allowing residents to visit the actual location to better understand the project's scale and perspective. Those who participated gained valuable context about how the development would fit within the existing streetscape.
Key Project Revisions
In response to previous community feedback, the development team has made several important modifications:
Reduced Hotel Height: The hotel component has been lowered from 8 stories (90' max height) to 7 stories (75' max height)
Scaled-Back Residential Component: The residential building facing Hamilton Avenue has been reduced from 5 stories to 4 stories within the UDO Character District #2 (which is a zoning district that prioritizes maintaining the existing character of the neighborhood)
Loading and Access Options: Three alternatives are now under consideration for the Hamilton alley connection, with options to move building loading to Merritt Avenue
Enhanced Infrastructure: Significant pedestrian improvements including 2,350 linear feet of new sidewalks, intersection upgrades at 6 locations, and transit improvements at 3 bus stops
Responding to Nashville's Housing Needs
The project aims to address challenges identified in Nashville's Housing and Infrastructure Study, which notes the city's growth has exceeded 2015 forecasts and current zoning codes are unlikely to accommodate future housing needs.
The revised proposal maintains the capacity for up to 160 hotel rooms and 200 residential units while better respecting the neighborhood's scale and character through reduced heights and thoughtful design elements inspired by the area's industrial heritage.
Key Concerns Raised by Residents:
Increased traffic congestion, particularly on narrow residential streets.
Potential for the development to overshadow existing homes and businesses.
Concerns about the impact on the neighborhood's historic character.
Questions about the adequacy of infrastructure improvements.
Next Steps in the Process
Planning Commission Hearing: The project will be reviewed at the upcoming Planning Commission meeting on April 24, 2025
Council Reading: Following Planning Commission recommendation, the proposal will advance to Metro Council for first reading in May
Community Engagement: The development team will continue to meet with interested community groups and neighbors throughout April
Second Council Reading: Final consideration is expected at Metro Council's June meeting
Continuing the Conversation
While not every concern can be fully resolved, the development team has demonstrated willingness to adapt their plans in response to community feedback.
The significant reductions in height and enhanced infrastructure investments represent substantial changes that aim to better integrate this project into our growing neighborhood.
Community members are encouraged to stay engaged in the process and to review the actual revised plans rather than relying on outdated information that may still be circulating.
This newsletter is distributed by the Wedgewood-Houston Neighborhood Association as an informational resource. It does not represent an endorsement of the project.
Community Engagement Timeline: Martin & Merritt Development Project
The Martin & Merritt development team has provided numerous opportunities for community engagement and feedback throughout the planning process. This is a comprehensive chronology of all meeting dates where residents could learn about and provide input on the project. Over the past two years, residents have had at least 10 formal opportunities to engage with the development team, review plans, and provide feedback that has contributed to the current revised proposal.
The residents of Wedgewood Houston
Summary of Resident Engagement Opportunities
The Martin & Merritt development team has provided numerous opportunities for community engagement and feedback throughout the planning process. Below is a comprehensive chronology of all meeting dates where residents could learn about and provide input on the project:
2023
April 25, 2023: Initial community meeting hosted by SomeraRoad at Diskin Cider
December 19, 2023: SomeraRoad-hosted information session at 1300 Martin Street
2024
March 19, 2024: Wedgewood-Houston Social event featuring project updates
April 16, 2024:: SomeraRoad presentation hosted at The Malin Wedgewood-Houston
July 20, 2024: SNAP (Strategic Neighborhood Action Plan) meeting with project review
September 12, 2024: Wedgewood-Houston Social event with project discussion.
SNAP meeting addressing project concerns and revisions
December 2024: No formal meetings recorded
2025
January 14, 2025:: Wedgewood-Houston Social featuring updated project plans
February 11, 2025: SNAP meeting with presentation of revised designs
April 7, 2025: Community meeting called by Council Member Vo at Diskin Cider, preceded by "Walk and Talk" site tour
Upcoming Opportunities
April 24, 2025: Planning Commission Hearing (anticipated)
May 2025: Expected first reading at Metro Council
June 2025: Expected second/final reading at Metro Council
Engagement Methods Used
The development team has utilized multiple formats to reach residents:
Formal presentations at community organization meetings (SNAP)
Informal discussions at neighborhood social events
Dedicated project-specific information sessions
On-site tours to provide spatial context
Council-facilitated community meetings
Over the past two years, residents have had at least 10 formal opportunities to engage with the development team, review plans, and provide feedback that has contributed to the current revised proposal. Council Member Terry Vo confirmed that she has now attended 2 of the 10 community meetings.
Community Benefits
The Martin & Merritt project has the potential to provide numerous benefits to the Wedgewood Houston neighborhood and the broader Nashville community.
These benefits span economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
1. Housing and Accommodation Diversity:
Increased Housing Options: The addition of multifamily residential units expands the range of housing choices within Wedgewood Houston. This can help accommodate Nashville's growing population and offer options for different household sizes and income levels.
Hotel Accommodation: The inclusion of a hotel provides accommodation for visitors, supporting the local tourism industry and offering a place for guests of residents to stay.
2. Economic Growth and Revitalization:
Commercial Activity: The retail and restaurant spaces will generate economic activity, creating jobs and providing amenities for residents and visitors. This can enhance the vibrancy of the neighborhood and attract more people to the area.
Job Creation: Construction of the development will create temporary jobs, and the ongoing operation of the commercial spaces and hotel will lead to sustained employment opportunities.
Tax Revenue: The development will increase property values and generate property tax revenue for the city.
3. Enhanced Public Realm:
Public Spaces: The project incorporates various public spaces designed to improve the quality of life for residents and the community:
Pocket Park: Provides green space for relaxation, recreation, and community gatherings. This can be especially valuable in a developing urban area.
Rooftop Terraces and Courtyards: Offer communal outdoor spaces for residents, fostering social interaction and a sense of community.
Merritt Plaza: Creates a central gathering space for events, markets, or simply for people to connect. This can become a focal point for the neighborhood.
Pedestrian Orientation: The design emphasizes a pedestrian-friendly environment, encouraging walking and biking, which can improve public health and reduce traffic congestion.
4. Sustainable Development:
Stormwater Management: The use of pervious surfaces helps to manage stormwater runoff on-site, reducing the strain on the city's drainage system and mitigating the risk of flooding.
Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR): Adhering to the required ISR demonstrates a commitment to responsible development practices that minimize the impact on the environment.
5. Cultural and Historical Preservation:
Adaptive Reuse: The preservation and integration of the Vintage Millworks building retains a piece of the neighborhood's history and adds unique character to the development. This can create a sense of place and connect the present to the past.
6. Alignment with City Goals:
Nashville Next: The project's alignment with the Nashville Next plan demonstrates a commitment to the city's long-term vision for growth, development, and sustainability.
Wedgewood Houston Community Character Policy: Adherence to this policy ensures that the development is compatible with the desired character and development patterns of the neighborhood.
It's crucial to understand that the permitting process has not yet begun. The developer has invested two years in preliminary work, seeking alignment with the community and city officials to present a project deemed approvable by the planning commission. As of today, the project is effectively stalled, awaiting Council Member Vo's decision, which will significantly influence the project's progression before the next planning commission meeting.
The Martin & Merritt development offers a range of potential community benefits, including increased housing diversity, economic growth, enhanced public spaces, sustainable development practices, and cultural preservation. These benefits contribute to the overall vitality and quality of life in the Wedgewood Houston neighborhood and the city of Nashville.
Resident's Guide to Potential Scenarios
INTRODUCTION
As a resident of Wedgewood Houston, you may have questions and concerns about how the proposed Martin & Merritt Development could affect your neighborhood, property value, daily life, and community character. This document analyzes four potential scenarios from a resident perspective, helping you understand possible outcomes, prepare for changes, and effectively engage in the development process.
SCENARIO 1: BEST-CASE — SUCCESSFUL REALIZATION OF VISION
What Happens
The project moves forward smoothly with all approvals in place. Construction proceeds according to plan with minimal disruption to the neighborhood. The development is completed on schedule and delivers all promised amenities and benefits.
What This Means for Residents
Housing Options: New housing units increase neighborhood options while avoiding displacement
Local Amenities: New shops, restaurants, and services within walking distance enhance quality of life
Public Spaces: Well-designed gathering spaces, green areas, and pedestrian paths benefit all residents
Property Values: Surrounding property values likely increase due to neighborhood enhancement
Traffic & Parking: Effective management systems prevent significant congestion or parking shortages
Neighborhood Character: Design complements existing architecture while adding vibrancy
Construction Phase: Minimal noise, dust, and disruption due to excellent management
Contributing Factors
Developers truly listen to and incorporate resident feedback
City officials ensure proper enforcement of construction regulations
Construction teams follow best practices for neighborhood consideration
Strong housing market and retail demand support full implementation
Resident Implications
Prepare For: Temporary construction activity followed by increased neighborhood activity
Home Value: Likely positive impact on property values, potentially increasing property taxes
Community Engagement: Opportunities to influence final details and implementation
Daily Life: Initial adjustment period followed by enhanced neighborhood amenities
Action Steps: Engage in public meetings, review detailed plans, connect with neighborhood associations
SCENARIO 2: MOST LIKELY — SOME MODIFICATIONS AND CHALLENGES
What Happens
The project faces typical hurdles requiring compromises. Some elements are modified, the timeline extends, and certain amenities may be scaled back or altered. The development still proceeds but with adjustments to the original vision.
What This Means for Residents
Housing Options: Most new housing is built, but possibly with adjustments to unit mix or pricing
Local Amenities: Some promised commercial spaces open, but tenant mix may differ from initial plans
Public Spaces: Community spaces are created but may have altered designs or phased implementation
Property Values: Gradual positive impact on home values, though less dramatic than best-case
Traffic & Parking: Some periodic congestion issues during adaptation phase
Neighborhood Character: Generally positive addition to area with some integration challenges
Construction Phase: Typical construction impacts with occasional disruptions beyond normal hours
Contributing Factors
Some community concerns require design or implementation changes
Normal regulatory review processes add time to the schedule
Market fluctuations affect certain aspects of development feasibility
Construction challenges emerge requiring adaptations
Resident Implications
Prepare For: Extended construction timeline and potential changes to promised amenities
Home Value: Moderate positive impact developing more gradually than projected
Community Engagement: Important to maintain involvement throughout extended process
Daily Life: Longer adjustment period with intermittent construction disruptions
Action Steps: Stay informed via community meetings, establish communication channels with developers and city representatives, document any construction violations
SCENARIO 3: WORST-CASE — SIGNIFICANT DELAYS OR PROJECT ABANDONMENT
What Happens
Major obstacles severely impede progress, potentially leading to an indefinite construction timeline, substantial downsizing, or complete abandonment of the project. The site could remain partially developed for an extended period.
What This Means for Residents
Housing Options: Promised new housing fails to materialize or is significantly reduced
Local Amenities: Few or no new amenities are added to the neighborhood
Public Spaces: Planned community spaces remain undeveloped or incomplete
Property Values: Possible negative impact if site becomes blighted or remains unfinished
Traffic & Parking: Unpredictable impacts from partial development or construction equipment
Neighborhood Character: Risk of an unfinished project creating an eyesore or safety concerns
Construction Phase: Stops and starts creating prolonged disruption without benefits
Contributing Factors
Major financing issues force project reconsideration
Significant community opposition blocks progress
Regulatory hurdles cannot be overcome
Economic downturn affects development feasibility
Unexpected site issues (environmental, structural) create complications
Resident Implications
Prepare For: Prolonged uncertainty about neighborhood development
Home Value: Potential stagnation or temporary decrease depending on site condition
Community Engagement: Need for collective action to address abandoned or delayed project
Daily Life: Dealing with partially constructed site with no clear resolution timeline
Action Steps: Form resident coalition, engage city officials about site maintenance requirements, investigate legal remedies for promised improvements, consider alternative community-led solutions
SCENARIO 4: ALTERNATIVE DEVELOPMENT — DIFFERENT PROJECT ALTOGETHER
What Happens
The current proposal is abandoned, but the property is developed with a substantially different concept. This could include different density, usage patterns, design approach, or timeline.
What This Means for Residents
Housing Options: Different housing types or quantities than originally proposed
Local Amenities: Completely different mix of commercial/retail uses or none at all
Public Spaces: Alternative configuration of community spaces or different public benefit approach
Property Values: Unpredictable impact depending on alternative development quality
Traffic & Parking: Different traffic patterns than anticipated in original plan
Neighborhood Character: Potentially dramatic shift in development approach and aesthetic
Construction Phase: Reset of timeline with new planning process and construction schedule
Contributing Factors
Current proposal proves unfeasible for regulatory or financial reasons
Property changes ownership to developer with different vision
Market shifts create demand for different development type
Community successfully advocates for alternative approach
Resident Implications
Prepare For: Back-to-square-one planning process with new stakeholders
Home Value: Highly dependent on nature of alternative development
Community Engagement: New opportunity to shape different project from early stages
Daily Life: Extended timeline before any neighborhood changes materialize
Action Steps: Stay engaged with neighborhood association, monitor property ownership changes, participate in any new community input sessions
PRACTICAL GUIDANCE FOR RESIDENTS
How to Protect Your Interests
Document Your Property Condition: Take photos and notes about your property before construction begins
Understand Your Rights: Research local ordinances regarding construction hours, noise levels, and dust control
Build Community Connections: Join forces with neighbors to amplify resident concerns
Establish Communication Channels: Identify key contacts at the development company and city offices
Follow the Money: Monitor public financing aspects and whether community benefits are legally binding
Questions to Ask at Community Meetings
What legally binding commitments will ensure promised community benefits are delivered?
How will construction impacts be mitigated for immediately adjacent properties?
What recourse do residents have if the project deviates from approved plans?
What specific timelines are established, and what penalties exist for delays?
How will existing infrastructure (sewers, water, electricity) be upgraded to support increased density?
Opportunities for Positive Influence
Design Input: Advocate for architecture and landscaping that enhances neighborhood character
Local Business Support: Encourage developers to include spaces for local businesses, not just chains
Housing Accessibility: Push for inclusion of affordable units and diversity of housing options
Sustainability Features: Advocate for green building practices and sustainable design
Construction Management: Request regular community updates and a point person for resident concerns
DETERMINING WHICH SCENARIO IS UNFOLDING
As the project progresses, these signs will help you identify which scenario is developing:
Signs of Best-Case Scenario
Regular, transparent communications from developers
Construction proceeds according to publicized timeline
Promised community meetings and input sessions occur as scheduled
Early phases completed with attention to quality and neighborhood impact
Signs of Most Likely Scenario
Some adjustments to plans announced after approval process
Periodic slowdowns in construction activity
Community benefits maintained but with some modifications
Construction timeline extends beyond initial projections
Signs of Worst-Case Scenario
Extended periods with no visible construction activity
Significant scaling back of project scope announced
Property listed for sale during development process
Legal disputes covered in local media
Temporary measures (like security fencing) becoming seemingly permanent
Signs of Alternative Development Scenario
Complete withdrawal of current application
New development team introduced to community
Dramatically different renderings and plans circulated
Restart of zoning and approval processes
CONCLUSION
As a Wedgewood Houston resident, your active engagement in the development process can help shape the outcome of the Martin & Merritt project. By understanding these potential scenarios, you can better advocate for your interests and contribute to a development that truly enhances your neighborhood.
Remember that most developments fall somewhere between the best and worst cases outlined here. Your involvement—asking informed questions, documenting commitments, building community coalitions, and maintaining constructive dialogue with developers and city officials—can help steer the project toward more positive outcomes for current residents.
The future of your neighborhood is being shaped now. Your voice and participation matter in determining which scenario ultimately unfolds.
Potential Outcomes and Implications if Council Woman Vo Opposes.
If Council Member Terry Vo decides not to support the Martin & Merritt Project, SomeraRoad, the developer, will face several potential paths forward. Each option carries significant implications for the Wedgewood-Houston (WeHo) neighborhood:
1. Project Stalls or Gets Withdrawn
Lack of Approval: Without Vo’s support, the project is unlikely to gain the necessary approvals through the Metro Council.
Project Abandonment: SomeraRoad might choose to abandon or indefinitely shelve the project, leaving the site undeveloped and waiting for a future administration more favorable to their plans.
2. Developer Modifies the Proposal
Further Revisions: SomeraRoad could attempt to revise the project to address community concerns, hoping to gain Vo’s support or reach a compromise that Metro Council would approve.
Potential Changes: This might involve reducing density, modifying design elements, or adjusting zoning requests to better align with community expectations.
3. SomeraRoad Divests the Property
Property Sale: If the project becomes unfeasible under the current conditions, SomeraRoad might decide to sell the property to another developer.
New Development Proposals: The new owner could propose a different project, potentially offering fewer community benefits or aligning less with current infrastructure and zoning efforts.
4. By-Right Development Instead of a Specific Plan (SP)
Existing Zoning Development: If the current SP proposal fails, SomeraRoad could opt to develop the property under existing zoning regulations without the same level of community input.
Potential Impact: This approach might lead to a less integrated, less community-focused development that prioritizes financial returns within legal zoning constraints.
5. Site Remains Undeveloped for an Extended Period
Vacancy: If no viable path forward is found, the property could remain vacant, delaying potential community improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and economic activity.
Community Considerations
Without the backing of Council Member Terry Vo, the Martin & Merritt Project faces significant challenges in moving forward. The key question for the community is whether an alternative to Martin & Merritt would better serve WeHo or if the risk of losing this specific project outweighs the concerns some residents have raised.