Peterson Companies, the owner of Rio Lakefront, has submitted an application proposing the addition of a floating pier for Guapo’s restaurant, providing open-air seating on the adjacent Washingtonian Lake. The proposal includes two small gangways connecting the floating pier to the existing boardwalk, creating approximately 1,056 square feet of additional space. The application does not suggest any modifications to existing commercial buildings.
The floating pier will feature an operable roof and side panels for shade and heating during the summer, fall, and spring seasons. Heaters and fans will be installed, and structural “spuds” will secure the pier in place, allowing it to move up and down with changes in the lake level during rain events.
During a recent Gaithersburg City Council meeting, Councilmembers Neil Harris, Lisa Henderson, and Robert Wu voted in favor of deeming the application to have a minor effect and directed the planning commission to make a final decision. Councilmembers Jim McNulty and Yamil Hernandez voted against it. With a 3-3 vote, the matter will proceed to the city’s planning commission. Notably, a dining pier for Copper Canyon Grill was previously approved in September.
Featured image courtesy of the City of Gaithersburg
