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The H Street Festival was a fantastic way to wrap up the summer. It was great to see neighbors, their pups, live entertainment, and local businesses all coming together. Now that fall is officially here, it seems like there are even more events happening, and I hope to see you around the Ward. Despite the rain this weekend, Art All Night continues along Barracks Row, H Street, Eastern Market, Southwest, and Mount Vernon Triangle. Don’t miss it! 

I also hope to see you at my next office hours event, when we’ll head to The Roost at Pennsylvania and Potomac Avenues SE next Friday. Between now and then, I'll be participating in the Week Without Driving challenge that asks elected leaders and policymakers to spend a week getting around without a car to better understand travel and transit challenges from a different perspective (follow me here and here for my own car-free journey). And we're preparing for another legislative meeting on Tuesday as the Council heads toward the end of our Council legislative period in a few months, when any introduced bills need to pass or be re-introduced in January. Let’s dive in!

Quick Links: Public Safety | DC Circulator | New Fiscal Year's Budget | Powering with Solar | New Affordable Housing | | ERAP Update | H Street Bus Priority | Parks & Rec | Water Report | A Memorial Without Stigma | Stacking Community | Georgetown Goes Downtown | Solar-Charged Bikes | Upgrades to Metro | Capitol Hill Eats | Office Hours | Free Events

Public Safety Update

• Reckless Driving Charge Against Driver Who Hit Child: I wanted to share an update with you regarding the reckless driver who struck a girl in the crosswalk at 6th and D Streets NE about three weeks ago. A lot of neighbors reached out to me sharing my frustration and concern. As I wrote in the last newsletter, on Sept. 9, a child was hit while in a crosswalk by a driver who had previously earned more than 80 dangerous speeding tickets with more than $19,000 owed in fines. At that time, the Maryland driver was simply issued a ticket for a moving violation. I reached out to MPD, the girl's family, her school leaders, and others. I asked MPD to continue investigating this case, and I appreciate our 1D Commander Hall ensuring his officers and team did so. The result is that the driver has now been criminally charged with reckless driving, and the judge has set a pre-trial condition that he cannot drive in the District of Columbia. The Post did an eye-opening story when the news first broke, as well. And for those of you following this closely, I'm glad to share that Paisley's mother let me know she returned to school this week, and everyone is supporting her as she recovers from the injuries. The reality is that dangerous driving like this is happening all too often in our city, and more neighbors like Paisley are at risk of injury or worse. The city has to be better at holding these dangerous drivers accountable and I think the STEER Act taking effect next week is one of the ways that can happen.
  
  
• Two Illegal Pot Shops Shut Down, More to Come: Last week, DC’s Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) shut down two illegally operating businesses along the H Street NE corridor — All American Papers (504 H St. NE) and Stonerz DC (521 H St. NE). These were some of the first enforcement actions taken against the more than 200 illegal shops selling unregulated cannabis across the District. If you want to catch up quickly, this piece from NBC4 does a great job. At one of the shops on H Street, ACBA seized almost 1,000 grams of cannabis laced with amphetamines being sold to the public! This is dangerous for consumers and the public.
  
  Despite multiple opportunities to join DC’s legal medical cannabis system, including through legislation the Council passed to create an "on-ramp" for so-called "I-71 shops" to become legal medical dispensaries, these businesses chose to continue defying the law, ignoring ABCA warnings in March 2024 and cease-and-desist orders in July 2024. Here are links to my press statement on Instagram and Twitter. I've been pushing for stronger enforcement against illegal shops for years while supporting a strong, regulated, legal cannabis marketplace. Under DC’s legal medical cannabis framework, properly licensed retailers mean regulated and safe businesses with trusted and tested products for consumers and an end to the over-proliferation of illegal cannabis shops along our important retail corridors.
  
  
• Arrest Made From Eastern Market Metro Park Drug-Free Zone: The First District for MPD announced an arrest associated with the Drug-Free Zone that was established for three days at Eastern Market Metro Park, arresting someone for public consumption of marijuana and possession of amphetamines. The person was additionally charged with a prior felony assault that MPD was able to connect him to once he was in custody. 
  
  
• Public Safety Walk: MPD will host a public safety walk in NoMa at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1. The group will gather at Patterson and Capitol Streets NE; all are welcome.

About Circulator’s Shutdown

Monday, I stood with ATU Local 689 as the Circulator’s shutdown begins next week on Tuesday, Oct. 1. We’ve known for a year and a half that the signature red buses were likely going away as WMATA service improved and the city’s finances tightened. However, that timeline always seemed to be set for next spring. I’ve called for a clear transition plan for these critical routes and the essential drivers who keep them running, and my colleagues and I will continue working with ATU and our partners on next steps. In the short term, I know riders are anxious about losing bus connections, and there are people who have dedicated their careers to the Circulator who will be out of a job shortly.

On Thursday, I chaired a public roundtable by the Committee on Transportation and the Environment on the termination of service, potential replacements for riders, and a transition plan for operators. This roundtable was a chance to bring all the affected parties together. It was clear the Circulator likely wouldn't survive the Mayor's budget proposal after she cut half of the system last year (the Council restored funding for one year... to give them time to plan a smooth transition). But it is clear to me the city was late to plan, and because of that, missed key opportunities to partner better with WMATA to absorb bus service in the forthcoming Better Bus plan and allow career public service employees at Circulator to plan their next steps. Instead, we have a rushed shutdown that begins Tuesday for one line and the end of the year for all other bus services.

What's Coming When the New Budget Hits Oct. 1

The FY25 budget passed by the Council last spring includes several important wins for Ward 6 and the District. As we enter the new fiscal year on Tuesday, Oct. 1, here are some key updates:

• New STEER Act tools take legal effect:
  
  
  • New Authority for the Attorney General: DC’s Attorney General can now bring civil suits against dangerous drivers, regardless of where they live. The STEER Act empowers the AG to take legal action against vehicle owners with large, unpaid traffic fines — even if they’re from out of state. This new authority aims to hold scofflaw drivers accountable and signal that DC means business when it comes to traffic safety.
    
    
  • Speed Governors for Reckless Drivers: The DMV will now install speed governors in vehicles of those convicted of criminal reckless or aggravated reckless driving. Similar to DUI ignition interlocks, these devices automatically limit vehicle speeds.
    
    
  • Stolen Car Ticket Relief: Victims of car theft will no longer be responsible for tickets incurred while their car is stolen. This new provision will ensure that MPD notifies the DMV and DPW in real time to prevent ticketing stolen vehicles.
    
    
• Healthy Homes Upgrade Program: Low- and moderate-income households will receive support to upgrade their homes to all-electric, high-efficiency appliances, including stoves, ovens, and electric heat pumps, helping residents move away from burning gas in their homes.
  
  
• Small Retailer Tax Credit Doubles: The Small Retailer Property Tax Credit will double to help local businesses with rising costs. This is something I fought for in the budget as a way to support our neighborhood restaurants, stores, and shops dealing with increased costs. 
  
  
• New Safe Passage Sites in Ward 6: The Safe Passage program, which ensures students can travel safely to and from school, will expand around the Potomac Avenue and Eastern Market Metro stations.
  
  
• Opioid Overdose Prevention: A new team will be formed in Southwest to combat opioid overdoses and addiction, providing critical services to those in need on the ground.
  
  
• H Street NE Activation Grant: I secured $350,000 to provide a grant to activate H Street NE more regularly. The H Street Festival is proof we should be doing more events that bring people out to the corridor year-round!
  
  
• LGBTQ+ Business Preservation Grant: A new grant will focus on preserving LGBTQ+ small businesses on Ward 6 Main Streets.
  
  
• Private Security Camera Rebate Expansion: The Private Security Camera Rebate Program will now include interior cameras and glass break sensors for all small businesses, enhancing security measures and helping provide more tools to solve break-ins and burglaries that can be really challenging for a small business. 
  
  
• Eastern Market Improvements: New street bollards and weekend security measures will be implemented to enhance safety and security around Eastern Market.
  
  
• Park Manager for Eastern Market Metro Park: I funded a position to get a park manager for Eastern Market Metro Park. The park offers so much potential and opportunity and deserves the focus of someone who can get repairs done quickly, handle safety issues, shut down illegal vending, coordinate our programming, and more. 

National Clean Energy Week = DC Solar Policies Put Money Back in DC Residents' Pockets

Sept. 23-27 was National Clean Energy Week (I have no idea who gets to decide these things), but given the opportunity, my team put together a helpful thread on Twitter and Instagram on the lay of the land on clean energy in DC. If you're interested in learning the basics, this is a good place to start with how the District is approaching and leading on clean energy, and how it can put money back in your pocket (yes, you!).

Breaking Ground on Affordable Housing in NoMa

We broke ground on 301 Florida Ave. NE this week (but actually construction has been underway for a few weeks). I love this project! It will turn a pizza-slice-shaped lot that sat empty for years into something special in the middle of a high-demand neighborhood. It's a new, 100% affordable housing development where 115 new homes will be available for residents making 30-50% of the Area Median Income, with a good mix of sizes ranging from studios to 3-bedroom units for families. The site is walkable to Metro, five grocery stores, schools, and retail. Thanks to support from the DC Green Bank, it will also be sustainable and all-electric: Residents will have high-efficiency heating and air conditioning, which will help cut utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Related: If you ever wanted to do a deep dive into the math behind making affordable housing work, check out Greater Greater Washington's series on the topic.

Tough Decisions Ahead on Affordable Housing and ERAP

On Tuesday, the Council will take up emergency legislation from Chair Mendelson to make immediate changes to the District's Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). The goal is to address challenges affordable housing providers face with unpaid rent and the court backlog on evictions and stalled ERAP applications. Affordable housing providers are in a tough spot with unpaid rent affecting their ability to stay afloat, while our office hears daily from constituents struggling to pay rent. This area of law is incredibly complex, and I'm cautious about rushing changes. However, it’s clear we can improve how ERAP helps stabilize residents with one-time payments. This is a serious issue that needs quick action, and I expect it to get significant attention next week. For more context, check out reporting from The Washington Post and Bisnow.

New Designs for H Street NE Bus Priority Project

I believe one of the best improvements we can make for H Street NE is to slow down traffic, speed up the transit, and make it generally more pleasant to be on the sidewalk enjoying outdoor seating or walking. That's why I believe the H Street Bus Priority Project is an opportunity to make gains that benefit the businesses on the corridor and improve the quality of life for neighbors. This week, DDOT released 90% designs of that project, which include some detailed changes. Notably, it would convert some existing two-hour parking into 15-minute parking that is meant to recognize the importance and demand for rideshare and delivery. There are also proposed mid-block crosswalks on the 600, 1200, and 1300 blocks. In theory, I support this because these are long walks that invite jaywalking, but I'll need to see how DDOT plans to slow down traffic to ensure the crosswalks feel safe enough to be used by pedestrians — right now, it's hard to imagine someone pushing a stroller or a senior feeling comfortable with a mid-block crosswalk. 

Updates on Exciting Ward 6 Parks & Rec Projects

• Cobb Park: Project leaders gave the community an update (pictured above) on the status of the redevelopment project, presenting playground design options, reviewing the site layout, and outlining an anticipated construction schedule. While the design was finished in 2022, there will be a final community meeting before construction kickoff, planned for the spring. The construction is expected to be complete with an open park next summer. I funded this park several years ago: We'll finally see this new green space come to life next year!
  
  
• Randall Recreation Center and Pool: DPR and DGS will have a community meeting about the upcoming renovations. Learn more and share your feedback at the meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 8, at Randall Rec (820 South Capitol St SW).
  
  
• Sherwood Recreation Center: DPR and DGS held a community meeting Thursday, Sept. 26, to discuss improvements to the field, basketball and tennis courts, water fountains, walking track, and more.

We Need a Backup Plan for our Water Supply

Did you take a shower today (I know, personal question)? Make yourself some coffee or tea? We rely on water for our daily routines more than we realize, and our expectation is just to simply turn the faucet and out comes clean drinking water. And while it seems abundant, our region is very vulnerable to water supply disruptions because our one and only supply comes from the Potomac River. As Chair of the Metropolitan Council of Governments, it was my pleasure to help roll out the new report from the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin — a sobering reminder of this risk, and it highlights the need for regional collaboration to protect our water resources. That’s why COG is working closely with partners to secure a backup water source. Just one month of a major disruption — whether from infrastructure failures or natural disasters — could lead to a $15 billion loss in gross regional product and millions in lost tax revenue. The Potomac River is our source of drinking water for about five million people in the area. Suddenly, that morning cup of coffee feels a bit more precious.

Be Part of a Living Memorial for Those We’ve Lost

DC Health is creating a memorial to people we've lost to the overdose epidemic. Its aim is to provide a human face to the numbers and show that no one is far away from the collective losses we’ve experienced. You can share information about your loved one – what you miss most, your favorite memory, or how you think they would like to be remembered. Your response to the survey can contribute to reducing stigma and bringing more attention to this pressing issue.

The Stacks Take Shape in Buzzard Point

My team and I toured the future site of the Stacks, a development of thousands of homes, retail, and restaurants in Buzzard Point in Southwest. Phase 1 will open in 2025 with 1,100 homes, including 125 affordable units, with rooftops offering stunning views of DC’s rivers and monuments. This space also sat empty for years, and soon it will be filled with people who can live, work, and play in the neighborhood. It's shaping up to be a phenomenal space and a great addition of new homes to our city. 

Georgetown University Expands in Ward 6

Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy recently opened its downtown location, activating new space between the CBD and Union Station. It’s a great example of how we can revitalize downtown and create more educational and community opportunities. Welcome to Ward 6!

Capital Bikeshare Gets a New Charge

New solar-powered e-bike chargers are coming to Capital Bikeshare stations, including two in Ward 6! There's a new solar charger in Southwest at the station at 4th and M Streets SW and another at Eastern Market Metro Park (pictured above)! A result of collaboration among DOEE, Capital Bikeshare, and Skyhook Solar, these create on-site battery charging so CaBi can have fewer trucks driving around with recharged bike batteries. And with our bikeshare use continuing to set records, I expect we'll see these expand across the District!

Metro to Improve Train Reliability, Allow Payment by Credit Card Tap

It’s looking like we’ll see some upgrades coming to Metro soon. WMATA General Manager Randy Clarke said this week he wants to have an open payment fare system by World Pride in May 2025. Similar to New York City, this would allow riders to tap a credit card (physical or on a phone) to ride instead of SmarTrip.

In addition, Metro will begin transitioning back to self-driving trains starting in December, beginning with the Red Line. This follows the introduction of automated door operations earlier this summer. Both efforts are expected to help speed up commutes — WMATA estimates riders on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines could save nearly five minutes with self-driving trains. (You may or may not have noticed riders are saving up to 10 seconds per stop with automated doors. It all adds up!)

Great Spots to Dine on the Hill

The Washington Post decided to highlight its favorite restaurants on Capitol Hill, and it’s great to see a list filled entirely with Ward 6 gems. As writer Warren Rojas puts it, “While some outsiders mistakenly assume its proximity to power translates to expense-account-only fare, locals know there are gustatory gems at every price point scattered about.”

Neighborhood Office Hours Head to Southeast

Join me and my team at The Roost (1401 Pennsylvania Ave. SE) for coffee and conversation next week. Whether you want to ask questions or just stop by to say hi, we'd love to see you. There's no formal agenda — just an open time for connecting. We'll be at the food hall Friday, Oct. 4, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Please RSVP to let us know we'll see you there!

Upcoming Free Events in Ward 6

• Open Streets DC: Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on 7th Street NW from Rhode Island Avenue to E Street
  Enjoy a car-free space to walk, roll, run, bike, skate, and play. Swing by and say hi to my team at K St. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.!
  
  
• Lansburgh Block Party: Saturday, Sept. 28, 3 to 5 p.m., at Lansburgh Park, 1098 Delaware Ave. SW
  This block party will include a DJ, free food, roller skating, a video game truck, a community mural, and more.
  
  
• Sidewalk Palooza: Sept. 28 through Oct. 6 across the District
  Join a walk, block party, cleanup, or other neighborhood event to provide feedback on pedestrian safety and accessibility. Events will involve submitting 311 requests for sidewalk repairs, sidewalk gaps, missing crosswalks and more, talking to neighbors and community leaders, and enjoying the neighborhood as you walk or roll.
  
  
• Movies in Milian: Tuesday, Oct. 1 and 8, 7 p.m., at Milian Park, 499 Massachusetts Ave. NW
  Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this series is featuring movies from 2004, with The Incredibles next week and National Treasure Oct. 8.
  
  
• Energy Efficiency Day: Wednesday, Oct. 2, 3 to 5 p.m., at the Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Place SW
  The Department of Energy and Environment is bringing together the DC Sustainable Energy Utility, the Office of the Tenant Advocate, the Public Service Commission, the Department of Aging and Community Living, and more for an event with free giveaways, live music, and resources on how to save money on utility bills.
  
  
• Bullying Prevention and Safety in Special Education: Saturday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Place SW
  October is anti-bullying and awareness month, and the DC Special Education Hub is presenting special training for community members to learn how to promote and what resources and services promote a safe and inclusive environment for students with special needs.
  
  
• Literary Hill Bookfest: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, in the North Hall of Eastern Market, 225 7th St. SE
  In its 13th year, this book festival will feature acclaimed authors of various genres, panel discussions, book signings, family-friendly activities, and poetry readings.
  
  
• Fall Family Fest & Mutt Strut: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, at the lot at 4th and M streets SW
  The Southwest DC Community Center hosts its Fall Family Fest and third-annual Mutt Strutt with live music, a raffle, pet costume contest, pet adoption, vendors, food trucks, face painting, and more.
  
  
• Building Community in a Multi-Racial School: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, at Watkins Elementary School, 420 12th St. SE
  The Capitol Hill Cluster School welcomes authors Helena Andrews-Dyer and Garrett Bucks to discuss their journeys in building caregiver community across race and class lines in a conversation moderated by local advocate and educator Faith Gibson Hubbard. Free on-site childcare with pizza will be provided by the Capitol Hill Cluster School PTA.
  
  
• Live Music at the Southwest Duck Pond: 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays in October at the Southwest Duck Pond Park, 500 I St. S
  The Southwest BID brings back live music at the Duck Pond, including DC Flamenco Oct. 9, the Mike Westcott Band Oct. 16, and the String Mamas Oct. 23.

It's Hockey Season

With the cooler weather comes fall events, football games... and hockey! Since you spent time reading through the entirety of this newsletter, reply to this email for a chance to score tickets to the Capitals v. Devils game at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12.

See you around the neighborhood,

Charles Allen