Mayor Bowser Advances Package of Legislation to Drive Economic Growth, Move Big Projects Forward

(Washington, DC) - This week, Mayor Muriel Bowser advanced a package of projects that will drive economic growth and continue momentum in diversifying the city's economy and creating jobs for DC residents. The package of legislation is part of the Mayor's commitment to running through the tape and continuing to deliver affordable housing, jobs, neighborhood amenities, and opportunity in all eight wards through the end of her term.

Combined, the projects will deliver more than 1,200 new units of housing, of which more than 700 will be affordable; keep Nationals Park modern and welcoming; expand healthcare access in Ward 7; advance the District's efforts at Poplar Point in Ward 8; and more.

"These are projects that will drive growth and create opportunity across our city. Many of the projects represent over a decade of work and are now ready for approval and implementation, following robust community dialogue, delicate negotiations, and numerous modifications," said Mayor Bowser. "With these projects and more, we're committed to keeping the momentum going as we continue the critical work of diversifying our economy and creating jobs for DC residents."

"Each of these projects delivers something the District needs - more housing, more jobs, and investment in every part of our city," said Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert. "To the communities in which they are located, they represent new amenities and opportunities."

Mayor Bowser is asking Council to pass legislation that allows four long-awaited projects to be approved and implemented - creating new community amenities, jobs, and affordable housing:

Chevy Chase (Ward 3): This project features 177 new housing units, including 90 affordable units (27 at 30%; 27 at 50%; and 36 workforce units at 80%) in Rock Creek West, alongside a fully modernized community center and library, which is the last library in the District still awaiting replacement. This project delivers on Mayor Bowser's goal to create more affordable housing in all eight wards.

Frank D. Reeves Center (Ward 1): Built in the 1980s by the District as an investment in Ward 1's "Black Broadway," the Reeves Center is at the heart of the U Street corridor. It will become the new national headquarters of the NAACP; a 150-key hotel; residential units; and a mix of retail, space for arts and culture, an outdoor plaza area, and parking. Built over two phases, the project will deliver 322 residential units (including 97 affordable units).

Fletcher Johnson (Ward 7): Redeveloping this site (vacant since 2011) will provide the community with much needed housing opportunities, affordable units, and retail options to serve residents, parking, and a freestanding emergency department that will bring additional urgent care and emergency care to residents in Wards 7 and 8. Built over multiple phases, the project will deliver 800 residential units (including 241 affordable units) of rental and for-sale housing, including affordable senior assisted living.

St. Elizabeths East (Ward 8): Over the past 12 years, the Bowser Administration has restored historic buildings, added housing, built community spaces, and brought healthcare access to the St. Elizabeths East campus. Council approvals of parcels 6, 7, 8, and 9 are necessary to continue redeveloping the 183-acre campus into a mixed-use destination for housing, health and wellness, recreation, and entertainment. The parcels will contain 682 residential housing units, including 327 affordable units, eight live/work townhomes, and 175 multifamily units and 60,000 square feet of retail, including up to 32,000 square feet of grocery.

The Bowser Administration is seeking the Council to approve two complex agreements with the National Park Service (NPS) that will allow for future redevelopment and facility improvements:

Georgetown Boathouse (Ward 2): For years, Georgetown University, the District, and NPS have wanted to modernize the boathouse and expand student, resident, and tourist access to the Potomac River. This agreement between the three parties is finalized and ready for Council approval.

Poplar Point (Ward 8): Poplar Point is the last remaining major waterfront property that is to be transferred from NPS to the District. This land swap agreement between NPS, the U.S. Navy, the District, and Redbrick Development identifies Joint Base Anacostia Bolling as the home for a new NPS Police headquarters. Passing this legislation unlocks the possibility of Poplar Point becoming a mixed-use development with more than 70 acres of waterfront park space with Therme DC as the anchor tenant.

Lastly, to maintain the District's leadership as the Sports Capital, the Mayor seeks Council to approve legislation that will allow for continued investment in and improvement of Nationals Park:

Nationals Park Preservation and Improvement (Ward 8): The District's 2006 investment in Nationals Park jump-started the transformation of Navy Yard. Now 18 years old, Nationals Park enters a new chapter, as the team prepares a comprehensive renovation that will upgrade essential infrastructure, enhance the fan experience, and modernize suites and concessions. With the Nationals' lease extended through 2059, the project reflects a long-term commitment to creating an exceptional experience for fans and the community for decades to come.

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