A proposed residential development known as Hawk Springs is drawing mixed reactions from community members as Bill Sullivan of the Potomac Land Company presented plans to the Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association.
The project, discussed with board members including Laney Balis and Suzy Watts, would bring a new subdivision to roughly 15 acres off Lithia Pinecrest Road, near an existing county park and across from Cimino Elementary School.
Sullivan is seeking to increase the number of homes from 34 previously approved units to 55 single-family houses, citing affordability and land use efficiency.
The homes would sit on 6,000-square-foot lots, slightly larger than some nearby properties, and are set sell in the $300,000 to $400,000 range. The plan includes:
- Sidewalk connections to Lithia Pinecrest Road and nearby neighborhoods
- A 3,100-square-foot pedestrian pathway
- Tree buffers surrounding the development
- Proximity access to an adjacent county nature park
Developers emphasized that the site sits within an “urban service area” and is supported by existing infrastructure, including nearby traffic signals and road capacity.
Community members pushed back on several aspects of the proposal, especially the claim that the development would provide “affordable housing.”
Board members questioned whether homes priced near $400,000 meet that definition and raised concerns about:
- Market demand: Residents pointed to nearby developments struggling to sell similar homes
- Density and spacing: Plans allow about 10 feet between houses, which some said feels too tight
- Environmental impact: The property is currently wooded, and green space preservation is a priority for many neighbors
- School and infrastructure strain: Questions were raised about contributions to local schools and capacity
One major critique focused on whether the project fits the area at all. “I feel like it’s the wrong kind of project for this area,” Laney Balis said, citing pricing, lot size, and current housing trends.
Residents suggested that townhomes or higher-density housing might better meet affordability goals while preserving more green space.
Developers acknowledged the idea but said zoning and political barriers make that option unlikely. The land is currently zoned for up to four units per acre, and shifting to a different housing model would require additional approvals.
Beyond housing, safety concerns were raised about student access to Cimino Elementary.
While a proposed sidewalk expansion was denied by the county, the developer committed to adding rapid flashing pedestrian beacons to improve crossing safety along nearby roads.
The proposal is still in early stages. A zoning hearing is scheduled for May 26, 2026, and developers said they are presenting early to gather feedback and address concerns.
