See the thermal baths, pools and saunas planned for European-style wellness center in D.C.
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Therme in Bucharest, Romania. Photo: Courtesy of Therme Group
A European wellness company is planning to open an "urban oasis" in D.C. with thermal baths and pools, dozens of saunas, and resort-style waterslides.
Why it matters: Therme Group announced on Thursday the project will sit on 15 acres of Poplar Point, an empty site along the Anacostia River across from Navy Yard.
How it works: Therme DC will be divided into three areas to "play, relax and restore."
- Plans call for swim-up bars, mineral pools, and relaxation beds, as well as immersive art and lush greenery.
- Therme says it's planning "a wide variety" of restaurants.
- "A global leader in urban wellbeing, the facility would offer affordable and accessible amenities never seen before in North America," says a press release from the company, which has four locations in Germany and Romania.
There'll be family-friendly areas in addition to adults-only areas and wellness treatments.
What they're saying: "As Therme expands globally, we are proud to anchor our U.S. presence in the District," Robert Hanea, chairman and CEO of Therme Group, said in a press release.
Driving the news: The Bowser administration said the project could generate $1.5 billion in tax revenue over 25 years, 5,000 construction jobs, and 720 permanent jobs.
- Therme says it will offer discounted entry for seniors, youth, athletic clubs and local residents.
Flashback: D.C. and Therme reached an agreement in May 2023 to explore a location for the facility.
Zoom out: Poplar Point has similarities to the RFK Stadium land — it's a large waterfront site (110 acres) that belongs to the National Park Service.
- D.C. has wanted to build something new on it for decades, like a soccer stadium or a new FBI headquarters.
- Therme will anchor the development, alongside 70 acres devoted to a riverfront park and trail system.