VNSTA tested the electronic fob readers at the underground passage to the Giant supermarket on Saturday, October 3, 2026, and found that they are still not working and do not permit residents of 3003 Van Ness to open the door from either side.

For decades, the passage provided residents with convenient underground access to Giant and the Van Ness-UDC Metro station. It is especially important for older residents, residents with disabilities, and anyone carrying groceries, particularly during cold weather, rain, and snow.

Building management has repeatedly said that the fob readers would be repaired or replaced, but residents of 3003 Van Ness still do not have reliable access through the passage. By contrast, the fob readers serving Van Ness North and Van Ness East continue to work.

VNSTA recorded two short videos during yesterday’s inspection showing the current condition of the doors and fob readers.

The continued loss of this long-standing amenity has become a major source of frustration for residents, many of whom chose to live at 3003 Van Ness in part because of easy underground access to the Metro and Giant supermarket.

VNSTA believes the prolonged loss of access represents a significant reduction in services.

Residents asked to sign petition

VNSTA has launched a petition calling on Vivmark Residential to act promptly and make whatever repairs or replacements are necessary, using durable, commercial-grade equipment, to permanently restore reliable access to Giant and the Metro through the underground passage.

Residents of 3003 Van Ness can sign the petition online.

Signing the petition does not require membership in VNSTA, but membership is encouraged. There is no cost or obligation. Any resident of 3003 Van Ness can join the tenant association online or update their membership information if they haven’t done so recently.

If reliable access is not promptly and permanently restored, residents reserve all rights to pursue any remedies available for the continuing reduction in services.

SPREAD THE WORD

Residents of 3003 Van Ness who want to help spread the news about the petition can print a copy and post it in the laundry room on their floor.

Residents who want to help collected handwritten signatures can download and print the form here.