For Immediate Release:
WASHINGTON, DC (September 19, 2024) – The Committee on Housing, chaired by Councilmember White, is holding a roundtable on September 24th titled “Shaping Downtown DC: Strategies for Increasing Housing and Building a Vibrant Community.” As technological advancements and shifting economic and cultural trends change the nature of work, housing development strategies must adapt to the way people will live and work in the future. By evolving sprawling, outdated commercial neighborhoods into vibrant mixed-use communities, the District can address its urgent need for housing and modernize its economy in a time of historic change.
The hearing will feature panels of national and government experts and community leaders to help discuss considerations, challenges, and opportunities that the District must consider as it creates a holistic plan for a vibrant downtown community. The hearing is being held downtown at The Square, an innovative food hall that took over former office space.
Speakers will include DC Deputy Chief Financial Officer Dr. Fitzroy Lee, GSA Public Buildings Commissioner Elliot Doomes, author and speaker focused on the future of work, cities, and markets Dror Poleg, and other representatives including ANC commissioners, labor unions, developers, and music and culture organizations.
Councilmember Robert White said, “We will never again have a downtown like that or 2019. As we look to the future, I believe that downtown must include mixed-income housing, along with the other amenities that support desirable neighborhoods and tourism. I convened experts to testify and share best practices on how to make this successful, incorporating the hallmarks of a vibrant community: schools, grocery stores, parks, cultural and recreational opportunities, and office space. With this vision as our north star, downtown will be a beacon attracting both residents and tourists alike.”
Panel topics include
- Overview from the Office of the Chief Financial Officer
- The Future of Work Downtown
- Downtown Housing and Development
- Creating a Vibrant Mixed-Use Community
- Enhancing Cultural and Recreational Offerings
This roundtable underscores the Committee’s dedication to addressing pressing issues related to housing affordability, revitalization, and community development in the District. Members of the press are encouraged to attend this off-site session to learn more about the future of the District’s urban landscape and how the Council is working to ensure an inclusive, thriving downtown neighborhood.
The full witness list will be shared publicly on LIMS, but feel free to contact Devon (email below) if you’d like a copy.