Momentum is building for the push to develop and improve the Columbia Pike corridor, stubborn Giant notwithstanding. A recent article in the Washington Business Journal notes that a significant piece of the development effort could begin to take shape as early as May of this year. An unidentified developer is prepared to close on a property at the corner of Columbia Pike and South Walter Reed Drive, across the street from the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse, and turn it into a condominium complex with over 40,000 square feet of retail, the bulk of which could be a new Harris Teeter grocery store. The presence of a new, upscale grocer will likely put pressure on the Columbia Pike Giant, whose insistence on maintaining its low-slung, big box design has impeded efforts to increase the walkability and density of the commercial strip.

The Journal article also highlights Drafthouse owner Greg Godbout, who purchased the theater last August and invested nearly $50,000 in building upgrades, and who has also begun introducing live performances of music and comedy into the establishment’s lineup. Godbout notes that his investment in the Cinema was made with Pike development prospects in mind. In addition to new building around Walter Reed Drive and further north, near Washington Boulevard, it appears that the road will ultimately receive a new transportation system, probably a street car line, that will tie the thoroughfare into the Metro network. The combination of development and transit options may allow Columbia Pike to position itself as Arlington’s leading commercial alternative to the Wilson Boulevard – Orange Line corridor.

Picture is a screenshot from www.arlingtondrafthouse.com.