Community-Driven Process

The research and materials prepared over the course of this Studio can be used to begin a community-led advocacy campaign around the future of DC-295. Here we imagine what a community-driven process could entail, and the benefits that could come from it.

A community-led process would:

1) Engage with River Corridor residents who are otherwise unlikely to participate in a planning process

2) Collaborate with existing advocacy networks and NGOs, and

3) Center community expertise to ensure meaningful community representation in discussions surrounding the future of DC-295.

In order to build and sustain the momentum of this effort, we believe that an advisory council should be formed. Advisory council members should live, work, worship, or play within the Anacostia River Corridor and be interested in seeing improvements in the area. This group could legitimize advocacy efforts, persuade local and citywide officials, and further educate area residents on the possibilities that arise with removing DC-295.

The council should also receive support from DC agencies to facilitate meetings and workshops and to access city resources. Through consultations with a variety of stakeholders, subject matter experts, and local business owners, the advisory group will ensure that they are making informed and representative decisions.

Other initiatives to promote local involvement might include walking tours, guest speakers, and community design workshops. The Community Partnerships Deep Dive provides a sample engagement plan which seeks to inspire next steps.

Case Study: Minneapolis Green Zone Northside Taskforce (Los Angeles, CA)

Launched in 2019, it addresses environmental justice issues in North and Northeast Minneapolis. Initiatives include designing and implementing a plan of action to improve environmental and population health, and social, economic and environmental justice.