Bethesda Apartment Construction Will Begin in 2027
A new 17-story residential building will replace the longtime Old Georgetown Grille site.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Live Poll
Do you support the redevelopment of older local business sites into large new apartment buildings?
Developers expect to launch construction on a 270-unit apartment complex in early 2027. The project replaces the site of the Old Georgetown Grille, which closed in October 2026 after operating for more than two decades.
Why it matters
The development represents a significant transformation of the Bethesda intersection at St. Elmo Avenue and Old Georgetown Road. The project adds residential density and commercial space to an area formerly occupied by long-standing local businesses.
The 17-story building will feature 270 apartment units, with 15% designated as moderately priced housing. The design includes 6,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and 145 underground parking spots.
The players
Bethesda Planning Board
This authority oversees land use and development projects within the local jurisdiction.
The details
Following the closure of the Old Georgetown Grille and the demolition of adjacent structures like Bethesda Florist, the site is prepared for redevelopment. Approved in January 2025, the project will take over two years to complete, with move-ins potentially starting in the spring of 2029.
Timeline
January 2025: Planning Board approved development plans.
Early October 2026: The Old Georgetown Grille closed its doors.
Early 2027: Construction and demolition activities are expected to begin.
Spring 2029: New tenants may move into the apartment building.
Market Landscape
This development aligns with broader urbanization trends in Bethesda that prioritize multi-use residential growth over aging low-rise commercial structures. The project positions new housing inventory in a high-demand transit corridor while meeting local affordable housing requirements.
Area residents should anticipate extended construction activity and road adjustments near the St. Elmo Avenue and Old Georgetown Road intersection starting in early 2027. Prospective renters may look for these 270 new units to become available in the spring of 2029.
The takeaway
The transformation of this corner reflects a growing shift toward high-density living in established urban hubs. Residents can monitor public planning portals for updates on construction impacts and future commercial lease opportunities.
Further reading
For more on local development projects, explore the latest Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bethesda Magazine.
Live Poll
Do you support the redevelopment of older local business sites into large new apartment buildings?
