A dispute over obstructed views at The Waterview in Rosslyn has left homeowners frustrated and considering legal action. The views were partially blocked by newly installed telecommunications equipment on a nearby building. Residents argue that the process lacked transparency and proper public notice.
Obstructed Views at The Waterview Trigger Dispute Over Zoning Decisions
A luxury condo in Rosslyn is at the center of a growing conflict over obstructed views at The Waterview. Homeowners say they were never notified about rooftop telecom equipment that now blocks views of national monuments and the Potomac River.
The large box was installed atop the Potomac Tower in late 2023, only 20 feet from nearby condo windows. Residents, including the Bolls, purchased upper-floor units for over $2 million, expecting unobstructed views.
They claim the equipment rises nearly nine feet above the zoning height limit, violating county codes. County zoning staff say a 2023 site-plan amendment allows the installation, even if it exceeds zoning height limits.
Residents believe the approval process lacked transparency and didn’t meet proper public outreach standards. Their condo board and attorney argue the equipment should never have been allowed without full community input.
County Defends Process While Residents Explore Legal Options
During a zoning appeals meeting, board members admitted they had no authority to reverse the county’s decision. Although powerless to intervene, several members criticized the county’s handling of public communication.
Notices were published only in a newspaper, which many residents don’t read. Few saw the required signage, and most residents missed the 30-day deadline to appeal the zoning decision to the Circuit Court.
Civic groups say this denied them the chance to raise objections or ask questions before the approval. A zoning lawyer representing residents claimed the process seemed designed to avoid public resistance.
Appeals board members agreed the process failed but could offer no legal remedy. County representatives say proper notice was given, and local business leaders supported the project.
Even so, neighborhood leaders are asking the County Board to review the case and consider changes to the process. The new telecom equipment replaced antennas previously located in a nearby office building that has since been demolished.
Although the appeal window has passed, some residents may still file a legal challenge in court. They claim the blocked views caused major property value losses — possibly up to $1 million per affected unit.
Residents say the issue goes beyond views and speaks to fairness, transparency, and homeowner rights in zoning decisions.
