Martin & Merrit Project

The proposed Martin & Merritt Project stands at a critical juncture, poised to significantly reshape the landscape of our beloved WeHo neighborhood. As we approach the crucial community meeting hosted by Council Member Terry Vo, it's essential for every resident to be informed and engaged.

Current Status: Awaiting Council Member Vo's Decision

The fate of the Martin & Merritt Project rests largely on the decision of Council Member Terry Vo. She has scheduled a community meeting to address concerns and provide clarity on the project's amended specific plan.

Community Meeting

Date: Monday, April 7, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Diskin Cider, 1235 Martin Street, Nashville, TN 37203
Hard Hat Vision Tour: 5:00 PM (Developer-led tour of the project vision)
Project Updates: 7:00 PM (Formal Presentation)

Project Overview: A Vision for Transformation

The Martin & Merritt Project envisions a transformative mixed-use development, encompassing:

Premium Hospitality: A boutique hotel by Aparium, aiming to attract visitors, create local jobs, and enhance WeHo's cultural identity.
Residential Excellence: Diverse housing options, including affordable units for artists and creatives, with rooftop amenities and private outdoor spaces.
Retail and Community Spaces: Ground-floor retail to support local businesses, a central plaza for community events, and new green spaces.
Enhanced Connectivity: Improved pedestrian access and a concealed underground parking system.
Architectural Integration: Preservation of historical elements with innovative design for community interaction.
Green Space and Safety: Compliance with zoning and safety standards, increasing green spaces.

Project Highlights

The mixed-use development proposes:

A 150-room boutique hotel by Aparium
150-200 residential units (rental or condominium options)
5,000-6,000 square feet of ground-floor retail
New pedestrian connections between Martin and Merritt streets
Underground parking to reduce street congestion
Public green spaces including a pocket park and dog area

Voices of SUPPORT: A Vision for Progress

Many residents see the project as a catalyst for positive change, citing:

Economic Vitality: Job creation and support for local businesses.
Enhanced Amenities: Improved infrastructure and new community spaces.
Cultural Preservation: Affordable housing for artists to maintain Wedgewood Houston's vibrant culture.
Increased Property Values: Potential rise in property values.
Green Space Expansion: Addition of green areas in a developing urban landscape.
Improved Infrastructure: New sidewalks and improved pedestrian access.

Voices of CONCERN: Navigating Potential Impacts

However, concerns have been raised, including:

Traffic Congestion: Potential worsening of traffic conditions.
Neighborhood Character: Impact on WeHo's unique atmosphere.
Increased Density: Implications of higher residential density.
Noise and Disruption: Disruption from construction activities.
Hotel's Influence: Impact of the hotel on the residential focus of the neighborhood.
Green Space Loss During Construction: Temporary loss of green spaces.

Key Discussions and Revisions

Elimination of garage access to the alleyway.
Reduction of overall hotel height.
Addressing misinformation regarding the project’s scope.
Clarification on traffic impact and alleyway connections.

The Stakes: What's at Risk?

The decision on the Martin & Merritt Project carries significant implications:

Missed Opportunity: Rejection could forfeit a well-planned development.
Infrastructure Deficit: Loss of planned infrastructure improvements.
Green Space Deprivation: Potential loss of proposed green spaces.
Community Trust: Rejection might erode trust in future developments.
Loss of Affordable Housing: Risk of losing planned affordable housing units for artists.

What's Next? The Permitting Process and Beyond

If approved by the planning commission, the project will proceed through:

Special Permit Request: Initiated upon planning commission approval.
Metro Council Readings: Three public readings for scrutiny and input.
Building Permit: Eligibility after successful readings.
Amended Site Plan Application: The developer has already submitted an amended site plan, seeking approval at the March 13, 2025, Planning Commission Meeting.
Community Communication Commitment: Ongoing communication with the community throughout construction.

Your Voice Matters: Engage and Stay Informed

We encourage all residents to:

Attend the Community Meeting: Participate in the meeting hosted by Council Member Vo on April 7th.
Stay Informed: Follow WEHO Social updates for the latest information.
Communicate with Officials: Share your views with local representatives.
Engage with Neighbors: Foster discussion about the project.
Follow Metro Council Meetings: Stay engaged if the project progresses.

Looking Ahead: Shaping WeHo's Future Together

The Martin & Merritt Project represents a pivotal decision point for WeHo's future. Active community engagement and informed dialogue are crucial to ensure the neighborhood's development aligns with our collective values and aspirations. Let's work together to shape a thriving WeHo for generations to come.

A Pivotal Moment for Wedgewood Houston