News
-Congregation Seeks to Remain On-site Alongside Selected Development Partner-
Silver Spring, Md. (October 26, 2023) – Northwood Presbyterian Church, a cornerstone of the Montgomery County community for 65 years, has just listed its 7+ acre property for sale or lease. Located at 1200 University Boulevard, the decision to sell or partner with a developer has been carefully considered by congregants and church leadership for more than three years and takes into account ongoing shifts in congregation dynamics. Looking ahead with excitement about the future of the property, Northwood is seeking proposals from development partners that would weave the church and its mission into the next iteration of the property.
Foundry Commercial has been tapped to bring the property to market. Foundry’s Religious, Education, and Non-Profit Group has long-been recognized as the national leader for commercial real estate transactions involving such properties.
“As we stand on the threshold of a new phase of growth, we reflect on our collective desire to become more deeply integrated within the fabric of our community. This redevelopment opportunity provides our church with a chance to embody the belief that a church is not defined by the walls that encase it, but rather by the love, compassion, and unity that thrives within its members,” said Rev. Dr. Chris Deacon, the pastor of Northwood Presbyterian Church. “Through this strategic move, Northwood aims to forge partnerships that will not only revitalize the area but also bring enduring value to the lives of those in this community.”
Northwood currently incorporates multi-use spaces throughout the property on the 7+ acres the church owns. The property sits in the middle of multifamily developments, single-family housing, nursing home/care, outdoor public facilities, and is directly connected to Sligo Creek Parkway and walking trail.
“With a deep sense of gratitude for its rich history and a vision for a vibrant future, Northwood would ideally be incorporated into the redevelopment plans of the buyer,” added Deacon. “We have been a presence, witness, and partner in the greater Wheaton area since 1958, and have spent the last several years thoughtfully engaging in where we feel God is calling us to grow. Now is the time for our church’s rebirth, and we are seeking a development partner that has the vision to collaborate on new uses for the property that will benefit the community for many years to come.”
In line with national trends impacting many churches, including reductions in the number of people who attend in-person church services as well as increasing maintenance costs across properties that are aging and not being used to their full potential, Northwood Presbyterian Church joins a growing number of congregations turning to redevelopment with a partner to assess all viable options.
Located in the heart of Silver Spring, the property is surrounded by the growth and development
of this booming metro area. Surrounded by forestry and a part of both the Kemp Mill Master Plan and the University Boulevard Corridor Plan, the property offers close proximity to public transit and nearby international airports.
To request more information about this redevelopment opportunity, contact Andrew Genova, MPS at andrew.genova@foundrycommercial.com or 301.512.8298.