The Chevy Chase
neighborhood is generally agreed to be bounded by Rock
Creek Park to the east, Western Avenue and Tennyson Street
on the north, and Reno Road to the west. Although several
major thoroughfares lead to Chevy Chase, this neighborhood
provides a quieter and more relaxed feel compared with
many parts of downtown Washington.
Primarily farmland until the late 1800’s,
residential development began in earnest following the
construction of the Chevy Chase streetcar line which connected
the area to downtown. Over the succeeding decades, Chevy
Chase DC transformed to a neighborhood of eclectic housing
stock that includes many of the "Sears Catalog Homes,"
a popular housing option in the early 20th century that
could be ordered by mail.
Unlike many urban neighborhoods that
have lost local businesses to large chains and suburban
malls, the small businesses along the main commercial
district represent a community committed to its local
heritage and entrepreneurs. In some respects Chevy Chase
is more like a small town but with an eclectic array of
retail and commercial establishments. There is a regional
branch of the DC Public Library, a community center, a
major grocer, and the renowned Avalon Theatre. Several
parks are within walking distance as are three red line
Metro stations: Van Ness-UDC, Tenleytown-AU, and Friendship
Heights.
