The Arlington County Board voted unanimously to defer consideration of Arlington-based Virginia Hospital Center's proposed construction, which calls for a seven-story outpatient pavilion, six-story parking garage and new inpatient facilities, according to an ARL Now news report.
The deferral comes as a disappointment to Virginia Hospital officials, who say the hospital is in dire need of more space to serve a growing population.
Approval is needed from the board to start building. The vote has been pushed to the board's December meeting.
The decision to defer came after hours of public testimony. Supporters also say the expansion is needed because more hospital services are shifting to the outpatient setting. New hospital opponents, many homeowners who live near the hospital, voiced concerns that the facility will tower over residential areas.
The board encouraged Virginia Hospital Center to "continue to engage with the surrounding neighborhood on improvements before the proposal comes back to the board for consideration."
Access the full report here.