Hans Riemer Talks Wheaton Redevelopment

Councilmember Hans Riemer (at-large) talked about Wheaton redevelopment on last Friday's NewsTalk show, particularly the need for a pedestrian-friendly community space in the downtown area.

Wheaton should be more "walkable," with a better connection and "better public safety," he said. Riemer also wants to see more commercial and office buildings to encourage daytime pedestrian traffic.

"What Wheaton does not need is to massively plow it under and replace it with everything brand new," he said. Something to avoid: High rents that only large chain stores can afford.

What Wheaton does need, on the flip side, is a "community-connecting space," analagous to Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring, Riemer said. "I want to make sure we create that, first and foremost."

For the full interview, watch the video on TBD.com. The discussion about Wheaton redevelopment starts at about the 32 minute mark.