The "Closing of a Portion of a Public Alley and Establishment of a Building Restriction Line in Square 2319, S.O. 22-02364, Act of 2025" aims to close a long-unused paper alley in Square 2319, which has not served any public purpose since it was deeded to the District in 1934. The alley, which is fenced in and indistinguishable from adjacent private properties, is referred to as a "ghost alley." The closure will benefit the community and property owners by allowing for the planting of landscaping to enhance privacy for nearby homes and the Maret School's athletic field. Additionally, the Episcopal Center for Children, which owns part of the land, supports the closure and has agreed to convey its share of the alley.
The bill also addresses legal and zoning issues by clarifying property ownership and ensuring compliance with District zoning regulations. By incorporating the alley space into private ownership, the bill aims to eliminate burdens on title and generate annual property tax revenue for the District. The existing building restriction line along the east side of Utah Avenue will be extended over the closed portion of the alley. Overall, the legislation seeks to resolve complications arising from the alley's existence and convert an unused strip of land into a taxable asset, thereby benefiting the community and local government.