Development pressures threaten housing security

A project at this scale presents a remarkable opportunity to address DC’s housing crisis. As will be covered later in this plan, a lot of land can be opened up for new development with the removal of DC-295. The implications of this could affect the supply of affordable housing within the corridor if managed appropriately.

Currently, homeownership rates in the Anacostia River Corridor are low, and the existing homes are older than elsewhere in DC. Also, as of 2020, more than half of the residents in the Anacostia River Corridor were rent burdened, meaning they spent more than 30% of their income on rent.[12] At the same time, the Anacostia River Corridor has seen more development pressure in recent years as millions of dollars have been invested in the neighborhoods directly across the Anacostia River on its western waterfront. [13] This all means - if development is done inequitably and rents go up more than they have in the past, then there is a very real risk of displacement for current residents.

This tone is one shared by many residents. For example, In an article about DC’s rising housing affordability, Kimberly, who is now a former resident of SE DC, stated that as a 3rd generation Washingtonian, it’s hard to see people struggle to live in the city. With this in mind, DC has already recognized the urgency of preserving housing affordability in the area.[14]

$318,400 +10%

Home values increase from 2010-2022

Our Housing Policy Toolkit deep dive examines The District’s Housing Equity Plan which aims to raise the share of dedicated affordable units from 16 percent in 2020 to 21 percent by 2050.[15] Equitable development on new land opened up by the highway’ removal has the potential to increase the supply of affordable housing and programs that support existing residents which can transform housing in the area at a crucial time.

53% Rent burdened households +7%

$1,024 Avg. gross rent increase from 2010-2022