The D.C. Zoning Commission unanimously approved the University’s plan to develop Square 54 at its monthly meeting last Monday.

“We are very pleased with the result as this project has been two and a half years in the making,” said Tracy Schario, director of Media Relations.

Development plans for Square 54 – the currently-vacant lot where the old GW Hospital once stood – include construction of a grocery store and affordable housing, as well as other types of development. Boston Properties and Kettler, two for-profit development companies will rent the land from the University to create the new structure.

GW plans to use revenue generated from the developers to fund elements of its 20-year Campus plan, such as building a new science center, adding residence halls and expanding the Gelman Library.

The National Capital Planning Commission recommended in April that the D.C. Zoning Commission accept the Square 54 plan as it is consistent with federal interests. The NCPC is a government organization charged with creating D.C. development policy and reviewing building projects.

There is a 35-day appeal period before GW can move forward with its construction plans. The Foggy Bottom Association threatened this spring to appeal the Square 54 decision, so it is possible that such an organization might seek further legal action during this appeal period.