Georgetown Finally Greenlights Apple Store

Apple's battle with the Old Georgetown Board over proposed store plans finally came to an end on Thursday when the organization approved the most recent architectural design from Cupertino. The Washington DC neighborhood had been at odds with Apple over the store's design for months, and rejected several other design proposals for the historic district location, according to the Washington Post.

"The project has gotten a lot better. I applaud your efforts," board member David Cox told Apple architect Karl Backus.

Apple still needs the approval of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts before it can start building its store, but the group rarely rejects plans that the Old Georgetown Board approves.

The board approves design plans in the Georgetown historic district to ensure that buildings keep a look that fits with the area's original architectural style. Apple's store plans, according to the group, would have changed the look of the area too much, so they were rejected. Some local shop owners, however, weren't happy with the move because they have been counting on the Apple Store to raise traffic and bring in new potential customers.

Apple hasn't said when it plans to start working on its new store, or when it expects to hold its grand opening.