New Ward 4 & Ward 5 Mayor Office Liaisons

Posted by nextstoprp in Ward 4, Ward 5

We have a new team of mayor office liaisons (also known as MOCRS) for Ward 4 and Ward 5. MOCRS are community outreach specialists typically seen at community meetings. They are helpful when residents need assistance with receiving services from District agencies. Some issues can be resolved through submission of 311 service requests, so it is helpful to go that route first and then follow up with the MOCRs if the issue has not been satisfactorily resolved. MOCRS can work long hours–late night shootings they’re there, late night fires they’re there, the dozens of community meetings they’re there –and in my experience they are quite patient and pleasant to work with. On that note, I have to give a shout out to the previous Ward 4 MOCR KeShawn Harris because he was just fantastic. Below is contact information for the new MOCRS.

Ward 4

Yamileth Escobar, Ward 4 Liaison
Primary contact for ANC 4A & 4D
Cell: (202) 603-7182
Email: Yamileth.Escobar@dc.gov
Twitter: yamiescobar_w4 (unofficial)

Anthony Mitchell, Ward 4 Liaison
Primary contact for ANC 4B & 4C
Cell: (202) 436-2087
Email: Anthony.Mitchell@dc.gov
Twitter: @ward4mocrs (unofficial)

Ward 5

Nokomis Hunter, Ward 5 Liaison
Primary contact for ANC 5A & 5E; split ANC 5D (Carver-Langston)
Cell: (202) 251-5049
Email: Nokomis.Hunter@dc.gov
Twitter: @nokomishunter (unofficial)

Brittany Butler, Ward 5 Liaison
Primary contact for ANC 5B & 5C; split ANC 5D (Trinidad)
Cell: (202) 394-4399
Email: Brittany.butler1@dc.gov

Yes, More Thoughts on Chick-fil-A, with a Side of the Comprehensive Plan

Posted by nextstoprp in Chick-fil-A, Neighborhood Development

By David Kosub (Contributor)

Many words have already been written about the forthcoming Chick-fil-A development at the current site of the KFC-Taco Bell at Riggs Road NE and 3rd Street NE (see here, here, here, here, and this entertaining Next Door rant here). Well, I had some more after reading the District of Columbia’s proposed Comprehensive Plan, currently open for public comment. As the Chick-fil-A development is expected to be discussed at the January ANC 4B meeting, I would like to provide a few more thoughts for consideration related to the visual character and environmental impact of this project in our neighborhood.

As I previously wrote about, the 2009 Small Area Development Plan for the South Dakota Avenue NE and Riggs Road NE corridor refers to the existing KFC-Taco Bell as an “opportunity site” for future development. Opportunities exist, as the plan notes, to have future development set back from the street allowing for a visually strong corner to be created with aesthetically unified, pedestrian-friendly, street-facing retail. Furthermore, as the plan goes on to say, future development should  consider accommodating aesthetic “landmark elements,” such as public art, open space, and vegetation, to “truly create a sense of place and assist with reestablishing the intersection as the heart of the neighborhood.”

To fully be the “heart of the neighborhood,” this intersection must be considered for streetscape improvements. Any future development should recognize this too. Similar to what is touted in Policy UNE-1.2.1 of the Upper Northeast Element of the Comprehensive Plan, such streetscape enhancements would make this intersection more visually appealing, professionally landscaped, pedestrian friendly, clean, safe with appropriate lighting, harmonious and respectful of existing structures, as well as convey a sense of local charm and culture. This goes for buildings and amenities that currently exist, together with those that are being planned for future development.

The aesthetics of the property must flow and connect with adjacent public assets, such as the triangle park on the southwest corner of the intersection, and future planned developments, such as the EYA project on the southeast corner. Wherever possible, native plants, shrubs, trees, and other vegetation should be installed to help address environmental objectives established by the District, such as mitigating storm water run-off, water and air quality improvement, and habitat restoration (Policy UNE-1.2.8), which also has the added benefit of beautifying our surroundings. Undergrounding power lines would also serve to enhance the visual character too. Any outside seating areas affiliated with the restaurant should be inviting, buffered from street noise, and a welcoming place to eat and socialize. Finally, the developers and operators of the facility should work with the South Dakota Avenue Clean Team to ensure this site remains clean as well as free from graffiti and other urban detritus.

The Comprehensive Plan also recognizes the value of green and open spaces in our city. For instance, in Chapter 8 focused on Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS), it notes “the need for parks may be more critical in some areas of the city due to…denser development patterns without the aesthetic amenities afforded by open space.” Though I understand the developers are not looking to create a new park at this site, the need for green and open space still exists and can be addressed with their project.

In Policy PROS-1.4.3, for example, green space could “enhance the connectivity of parks and open spaces throughout the city [and could] be an important planning and design consideration, particularly where multiple large adjacent sites are being redeveloped,” such as in our neighborhood. The plan goes on to say that “small pocket parks, plazas, and other open spaces should be created [in employment growth areas[ to provide visual relief and space for outdoor seating” (Policy PROS-1.4.6). If indeed the new Chick-fil-A will have a walk-up order option for pedestrians, then perhaps it could be encouraged to develop “outdoor plazas…for public benefit and to encourage tree planting, public art, sculpture, seating areas, and other amenities” (Policy PROS-4.3.2). The District government may even provide “incentives for new…buildings to include green roofs,” rain gardens, landscaped open areas, and other common open space areas that provide visual relief and aesthetic balance” (Policy PROS-4.3.3).

Improving the visual character of this site aligns with the overarching goal of the Urban Design (UD) element of the Comprehensive Plan. This element aims to “enhance the beauty and livability of the city by…reinforcing the identity of its neighborhoods, harmoniously integrating new construction with existing buildings and the natural environment, and improving the vitality, appearance, and security of streets and public spaces” (Urban Design Goal 901). South Dakota Avenue NE, where the new restaurant will look out upon, could be an opportunity for the developers to help “reinforce the form and identity of the city, connect its neighborhoods, and improve its aesthetic and visual character” (Policy UD-1.4.1), with particular priority on higher design standards and a positive image. Such higher standards would contribute to activating this commercial area, “create visual interest through well-designed building facades, storefront windows, and attractive signage and lighting” (Policy UD-2.2.5). Finally, the plan does recommend requiring “streetscape improvements by the private sector in conjunction with development or renovation of adjacent properties” (Policy UD-3.1.11).

To further enhance the visual character of this site, I encourage the developers to partner with the community wherever possible to help provide needed resources to reactivate the triangle park on the southwest corner of the intersection. Private financial support [could help[ the District’s park and recreational facilities” (Policy PROS-2.2.6), such as through public-private partnerships for recreational purposes (Policy PROS-2.2.7). I recognize this is a by-right project replacing one fast food restaurant with another, so something like a community benefits agreement is unlikely, but having Chick-fil-A provide resources to improve the green space nearby would benefit all involved. Moreover, as noted in Policy UD-3.1.8, such public spaces could be activated through “the design of adjacent structures; for example, through the location of shop entrances, window displays, awnings, and outdoor dining areas,” which is also important for the developers to consider.

Paraphrasing the Comprehensive Plan one final time, open and green space provide many benefits to the form and flow of a neighborhood. A balance between development and open space is critical for our neighborhood to continue thriving, the psychological wellbeing of current and future residents, and the aesthetic qualities of the city. If you plan to attend the January ANC 4B meeting and/or reach out to your ANC Commissioner about this project, I appreciate your support to ensure this project, and any others in our neighborhood, consider these important green, environmental visual enhancements to neighborhood development as well.  

How to help family displaced by fire

Posted by nextstoprp in Riggs Park

A family in the 400 block of Madison Street NE has been displaced by a fire that completely destroyed their home. The fire was covered by local news here, here, and here. ANC Commissioner LaRoya Huff (4B09) has organized a donation drive to assist the family. Donations will be accepted at the Riggs-LaSalle Recreation Center (501 Riggs Road NE) on January 8, 2020, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Please keep the family in your thoughts and assist as you can. I will provide information on other efforts as I hear of them.

Below is the notice from Commissioner Huff with specific donation information. Contact Commissioner Huff at (202) 704-2427 if you have any questions:

Greetings Everyone,

The latest update on on our neighbors in Riggs Park who experienced the devastating fire yesterday at 445 Madison Street NE is that Mrs. Caviness-Bey is still recuperating in the hospital and needs our love and prayers. As for the children Laylaa who is 7 years old, Quinten 2 years old and Lamecia “Mi-Mi” who is 14 years old are doing well and came to visit their dog today at the neighbors Ms. Dee Dee’s house and had dinner with their other neighbor Ms. Judy. Mr. Caviness-Bey is still at his wife’s side, taking care of his family and managing his business affairs. So many people have reached out to support the family and as promised the following are the sizes needed for family of eight (8):

Laylaa – Girl: Size 6/7 clothes, shoes 2 or 3
Uniforms: Red polo top, Black pants
Coat: 6X, 8

Quinten – Boy: Size 3T – 4T
Shoes 9 or 10
Diapers: Size 5 or Pull Ups
Coat: 4T, 4

Lamecia – Girl:
Tops XS, Pants Size 5 (Tall Slim)
Shoes: 8 or 8.5
Coat: Small, Size 5
Uniform: White Polo, Navy Blue Pants

Mrs. Caviness-Bey – Female
Size: 18
Shoes: 10.5
Coat: 20, 2X

Mr. Caviness-Bey – Male
2X Clothes, 38 pants
Coat: 2X, 40
Shoe: 10.5

Zaid – Male
Clothes: Large, 34 waist
Shoes: 10, 10.5
Coat: XL

Tarsha – Female
Clothes Size 0-2 Shoes: Size 7
Coat: 5, Small

Tiara – Female
Clothes Size 10, Shoes: Size 8.5, 9
Coat: Size 12, Large

TShirts, Belts, Pocketbooks, Wallets, Underwear, Sweaters, Cosmetics and Toiletries. Toys for the smaller children are welcomed.

The family says Thank You for the Love and Prayers extended to them. I want to also say Thank You 🙏 to you ALL as well. I look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, January 8th. Donations accepted between 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Riggs-LaSalle Recreation Center at 501-B Riggs Road NE. I’m looking to have the family join us and present their gifts to them between 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm. Please continue to pray for the family and our community. Forever For the ❤️ of RIGGS Park! God Bless you ALL.

Sincerely,

Commissioner LaRoya A. Huff
ANC 4B-09

DC Office of Planning Extends Comp Plan Comment Period

Posted by nextstoprp in Neighborhood Development

Yesterday, DC’s Office of Planning extended the comment period for the Comprehensive Plan proposed amendments. See press release below.

DC Office of Planning

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 16, 2019

CONTACT: Jessica Carroll (OP) – (202) 550-6845; jessica.carroll@dc.gov

Bowser Administration Extends Public Review Period for Comprehensive Plan 

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, the DC Office of Planning (OP) announced that the public will now have until Friday, January 10, 2020 to review the Comprehensive Plan Draft Update (Comp Plan). In addition to extending the 60-day public review period, OP will now accept feedback from ANCs through February 14, 2020. Public review is critical for ensuring District residents get the updated plan that they deserve, and OP has adjusted its schedule to ensure sufficient time for review while also allowing adequate time for adoption of the Comp Plan by DC Council in 2020. In its current form, which was approved in 2006, the Comp Plan does not sufficiently address the District’s long-term needs around housing, equity, resilience, and public resources.

“The Bowser Administration is committed to ensuring the public’s voices and views are reflected in the update of the Comprehensive Plan,” said OP Director Andrew Trueblood. “Since 2016, the Office of Planning has heard from tens of thousands of residents to help shape the draft amendment and is extending the deadline to ensure this process remains inclusive.”

Public engagement for this update began with events in 2016 and continued with an official open call for amendments in 2017. OP received over 3,000 proposals through that public comment period. While these were the primary opportunities to weigh in on major substance and updates, OP also incorporated public input from other venues, including feedback provided through the DC Council’s review of the Framework Element in 2018 and 2019, OP’s DC Values Campaign, the numerous housing engagements in 2019, and the hundreds public engagements associated with the 40+ plans produced by District agencies that are a part of the Comp Plan update.

Since the draft Comp Plan was released on October 15, 2019, OP has provided numerous documents, summaries, and analysis of the proposed update; attended over 60 meetings with stakeholders; engaged in individual conversations with hundreds of residents; and hosted community meetings in every Ward. In total, through these various conversations, thousands of District residents have weighed in and continue to share their feedback prior. Feedback will be reviewed and incorporated as appropriate into the Mayor’s submission to DC Council in the spring. DC Council will provide final opportunities for public input prior to adopting the approved Comp Plan.

More information about the Comp Plan substance, process and opportunities for input can be found at plandc.dc.gov.

  ###

December 11, 2019 ANC 5A Special Meeting Recap: Lamond-Riggs Library; Comp Plan; Walmart Beer/Wine License

Posted by nextstoprp in ANC 5A

ANC 5A held a special meeting on December 11, 2019. All commissioners were present: Frank Wilds (5A01), Grace Lewis (5A02), Emily Singer Lucio (5A03), Ronnie Edwards (5A05), Sandi Washington (5A07), Gordon Fletcher (5A08)

ANC Vacancies

One candidate, Claudia Barragan, applied to fill the vacancy for ANC 5A06. Barring any challenges, she should be sworn in in time for the next ANC meeting.

No candidates have come forward for ANC 5A04. This SMD covers Catholic University, so the seat is often vacant. A Catholic University student did fill the seat the previous two terms. Commissioner Fletcher (5A08) stated to Catholic’s general counsel Nancy Morrison O’Connor that he would be interested in hosting an info session with students to see if anyone might be interested in serving. Ms. O’Connor also stated new faculty have recently moved into the SMD so one of those faculty members might be interested in serving as well.

Lamond-Riggs Library Design Update

DC Public Library representatives and HGA, the design team for the ne Lamond-Riggs Library, returned to the commission to seek approval for the design to submit with their plans to the Commission on Fine Arts. Not much new was presented from the community design meeting that was held on November 19. They are still deciding between two exterior design options, what they are calling Forest vs. Folds. The interim library will be located in a 2800 square foot space at the Modern at Art Place on Ingraham Street NE. Responses to a few questions from the commission and residents:

  • In response to questions about parking from Commissioners Sandi Washington (5A07), Grace Lewis (5A02), and Ronnie Edwards (5A05), the design team explained that building an underground parking lot would be cost prohibitive given the program desires for the new building. DCPL will maintain the number of parking spaces at 11. DCPL noted Commissioner Edwards’ request that library staff be prohibited from parking in the lot.
  • Wifi will be available in the outdoor spaces (the front porch and balcony), but they are not sure just yet if charging stations will be available. They made a note for the request
  • Commissioner Frank Wilds (5A01) requested a list of CBE contractors, which DCPL stated they will provide when available.
  • Robert Oliver, president of the Lamond-Rigg Library Friends, suggested that DCPL visit the abutting residences to take pictures of their walls to address any concerns about construction impacts. DCPL noted the suggestion.
  • DCPL noted Commissioner Wilds’ request that DCPL hire a neighborhood ombudsman to disperse construction-related information and handle construction issues.
  • The design team noted a request for streetscape improvements of the public right of way when library construction is done.
  • DCPL does not have a specific date for when the current library will close and when the interim library will open next year. They still have to get through all of the regulatory and permitting processes. They noted there is typically a period of about three weeks between closure of the old library and opening of the interim library.

The ANC voted unanimously to support the design.

Comprehensive Plan Update

Update 12/16/2019: On December 16, 2019, after publication of this post, the Office of Planning extended the comment period for the public to January 10, 2020, and for ANCs to February 14, 2020.

The Office of Planning (OP) has proposed amendments to the Citywide and Area Elements of the District’s Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan). The Comp Plan guides how the city should grow and be developed. The general public has until December 20, 2019 January 10, 2020, to submit comments to OP, while ANCs have until January 31, 2020 February 14, 2020, to submit resolutions to OP. Details on the proposed amendments are available at plandc.dc.gov. (Note: I wrote about the proposed amendments in this post).

Chair Edwards stated ANC 5A will request more time to review the proposed amendments. The ANC voted unanimously to support the intent and purpose of a draft resolution that many other ANCs have signed.

At the same time, the ANC will prepare as if no extension of time will be granted. Accordingly, please submit comments that you would like to see incorporated into an ANC 5A resolution to Commissioner Edwards at 5a05@anc.dc.gov by January 10, 2020. The commission plans to have a community meeting on the Comp Plan on January 11, 2020, at 10:00 am. They will circulate a summary of the comments by January 15 and be prepared to vote on a resolution on January 22.

Soldiers’ Home Reservoir Upgrades

Upgrades to the Soldiers’ Home Reservoir, located at the intersection of Arnold Drive and Pershing Drive NW on the grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home are ongoing until tentatively December 2020. All of the work is being done on the campus so area residents should not see any disruptions except the occasional lane closure. Golf course operations on the two affected fairways will be limited during construction. DC Water will work to minimize disruptions, and the fairways will be resotred after consturction is completed. For information, contact project manager Willis Thomas at (202) 787-7616 or willis.thomas@dcwater.com.

Walmart Beer/Wine License Application

As previously noted, the Walmart located at 310 Riggs Road has applied for a license to sell beer and wine. It is located in ANC 4B. On November 25, 2019, that commission voted in support of a resolution to support Walmart’s application and also to “reaffirm[] its support for the terms of the Settlement Agreement of August 9, 2018[]” between ANC 4B and Walmart. The status of that settlement agreement is unclear. The resolution could not be found on the ANC resolution website, so it is not clear if the commissioner for that area has uploaded the resolution yet. The Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association (LRCA) voted at its meeting on December 2, 2019, not to protest Walmart’s application (13 in favor of protesting; 15 opposed to protesting).

Now, a group of 5 or more individuals led in part by Ward 5 resident Bill Smith plans to protest Walmart’s application. Bill Smith was one of the people who led the successful protest against the liquor license application of Pax Liquor, which wanted to open next to the McDonald’s on South Dakota Avenue. The protest against Walmart will focus on the fact that there is a liquor store directly across the street from the Walmart and an elementary school, LaSalle-Backus Education Campus, within two blocks of the Walmart. The principal of that elementary school attended the LRCA meeting and asked Walmart’s manager how he plans to ensure that minors will not be able to abscond with or purchase alcohol. The manager stated that cashiers are given a prompt to ask for identification whenever a customer attempts to buy beer or wine. If you would like to join Mr. Smith in the protest, contact him at smith744@aol.com

Catholic University

Catholic University held a groundbreaking for its new dining hall. There are also new meeting rooms, which Ms. O’Connor stated the ANC is welcome to use. In the next few weeks, the university will hold a groundbreaking for a new nursing school and research labs.

The school recently received a notice from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that someone is flying drones above university property. This is a no-fly zone and there are consequences for flying drones without a proper license, so if you or anyone you know is responsible for the drones, take heed.

Ward 5 Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie

Councilmember McDuffie will hold three community conversations on violence around the Rhode Island Avenue and Woodridge/Langdon areas.

Miscellaneous

The commission voted unanimously in support of a petition for traffic calming, specifically speed bumps, in the 700 block of Decatur Street NE.

Commissioner Fletcher will hold an SMD meeting on January 7, 2020.

WaPo Profile on Fort Totten

Posted by nextstoprp in Neighborhood Development

The Washington Post is at it again. A profile on the Fort Totten neighborhood was published yesterday, but strangely it features residents who do not live in that neighborhood at all. ANC Commissioner Gordon Fletcher (5A08) lives in Riggs Park and Robert Oliver lives in North Michigan Park. The writer could have reached out to the Fort Totten Civic Association to speak with actual residents or the actual commissioner for that neighborhood. Not sure if that happened though.

As indicated in the profile, the borders of the Fort Totten neighborhood are Riggs Road to the north, the metro tracks to the east, Hawaii Avenue to the south, and North Capitol Street to the west. People often confuse the neighborhood with nearby neighborhoods like Riggs Park and North Michigan Park. The development taking place is not in Fort Totten; it’s all in Riggs Park. And as is usually the case with these profile pieces, other information is wrong. I was featured in one such profile on Lamond-Riggs back in 2015, so I know sometimes the writer gets quotes wrong or the conversation will be steered in a certain direction and certain statements end up sounding a little ridiculous out of context. Nonetheless, check out what the Washington Post says about the Fort Totten neighborhood.

REMINDER – December 11: ANC 5A Special Public Meeting on Library & Comp Plan

Posted by nextstoprp in ANC 5A

ANC 5A Special Meeting
December 11, 2019
6:45 pm
UDC-CC Backus
5171 South Dakota Avenue NE
Agenda: (1) Lamond-Riggs Library Update; (2) Comprehensive Plan Update

ANCs have until January 31 to submit a resolution regarding the Office of Planning’s proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan. Many ANCs have had working groups or committees to address the proposed changes. Come out to hear how ANC 5A plans to take advantage of the opportunity to weigh in on the proposed changes. Also, if you missed the Lamond-Riggs Library design meeting last month, a member of the design team will be on hand to give an update.

Time to Step Up – How Would You Like to Use Your Neighborhood National Park (Part 2)

Posted by nextstoprp in Recreation

By David Kosub (Contributor)

In response to my October post, I was pleased to see so much interest related to the Civil War Defenses of Washington (CWDW) National Park Service (NPS) land in our community. I summarize the comments below and also describe what’s happened since. This is also a call for helping hands. Volunteers welcomed! Please note in the comments and send me an email on how you, your family, and your neighbors can help this project continue to gather steam. 

Dusting Off the Plans

To know where we are going, we must look back to where we have been. The 2009 Riggs Road and South Dakota Avenue Area Development Plan generally calls for connections, reactivation, and the creation of open spaces around us (see Implementation Table 4.3). It also calls for establishing additional recreational opportunities in the green spaces. Let’s achieve these goals already!

Funding is referenced coming from the District’s Capital Improvement Budget and Capital Space Plan, such as for “active recreation, such as … trails at the edges of the Fort Circle Park near residential areas.” The Capital Space Plan provides strategies for parks, particularly those in the city’s neighborhoods, to create a beautiful, high-quality, and unified system for the Nation’s Capital. I doubt funding is available anymore, but are there any volunteers out there to look into this possible revenue source?

Trees, Trees, and more Trees

I was glad to see I’m not the only tree hugger in the neighborhood. We can always use more trees. Folks seem to echo the point that, without shade trees at least on the perimeter of the park, the area can get too hot during certain times of the year and thus become unusable for many (see this heat island map published last year noting our community is one of the hottest spots in the city). Moreover, trees help combat the effects of climate change, cool the roads, help with stormwater management, provide new habitats for the other creatures around us, give shade for folks who are taking in a pick-up game, and beautify the surroundings making this a more pleasant and desirable place.

During a recent follow-up conversation, NPS acknowledged the community’s desire to have more trees along the edges to help combat the heat island effects and provide shade for park visitors. They still stressed the point that the large swath of open green space in the middle must be maintained in accordance with the management plan for these parklands. That said, they are going to consider the option to plant trees along the perimeter and step up the effort to replace known dead or dying trees.

As suggested, I also reached out to Casey Trees about this site. They noted not working much with CWDW parks before, but were thrilled we want  to utilize the land more effectively, such as by adding trees. The likely next step is to submit a Community Tree Planting application so their arborists can take a look and see if moving forward is feasible. Any volunteers  to submit the application?

Interestingly enough, roughly 30 new trees were recently planted along the perimeter of the park on the Galloway Street side from South Dakota Avenue to 11th Street NE. Trees were also planted on the perimeter of the park east of Sargent Road NE on Galloway and Gallatin streets. It is unclear to me if these tree plantings were a result of my discussions with NPS, but they are most welcomed nonetheless.

 

  • Newly planted trees on Galloway Street NE
  • Newly planted trees on Gallatin Street NE

To Be Fit or Not to Be Fit

This NPS site is zoned for recreational purposes. And, to many, this means opportunities for exercise. Be it a walking or running path lined with markers, exercise equipment, and a designated field for sports and play for humans and our four-legged friends, we are ready to have fun! Any volunteers to organize a group yoga class or begin an annual Riggs Park v. North Michigan Park pick-up game, perhaps at the next Fort Circle Field Day?

NPS will not approve a designated dog park or install a water fountain (see this 1992 Washington Post story for other wishlist items which would not fly either, but hopefully we will have better neighborhood buy-in today). Other community suggestions are still possible. A walking trail could be installed, as it aligns with earlier NPS plans. But it’ll be costly, and the community would need to find the funding source (I’m looking at you, the District’s Capital Improvement Budget). For such a trail to be installed, environmental and geotechnical studies must be done, ensure it fits the historical and cultural aspects of the park, and professional designs must be obtained. The estimated cost would be around $250,000. The best option here would likely be having the District and local developers pony up the funds. With enough community support, this could be possible. It’s budget planning season after all.

Infrastructure

Perhaps those resources could be used elsewhere though. The pavilion area needs some TLC. Many neighbors noted its lack of accessibility and that it could be spruced up with picnic tables and natural shade. NPS indicated rehabbing the picnic and pavilion area is doable, including adding a grill. Some things could happen quickly, like bringing in some picnic tables, while others may take a couple years, such as renovating the picnic shelters and making them ADA compliant. NPS is currently in the process of requesting funding.

As for other infrastructure needs, such as lighting and sidewalk improvements, we likely need to reach out to the District’s Department of Transportation through 311 requests. Volunteers are welcomed to start submitting these requests today.

Historical markers

Historical markers for CWDW parks are on the way. NPS has submitted designs for approval from the Commission on Fine Arts. The Commission will discuss these interpretative signs at their upcoming spring 2020 meeting (renderings will be shared once available). I hope these markers add a nice piece of visual flair to the neighborhood.

Next steps

I feel like we are making progress. NPS is happy to partner with us, which does achieve one of the goals from the plans referenced earlier. One event NPS mentioned was teaming up with a group on the Maryland side already engaged with them for a spring clean-up event. And, since the community has expressed concerns related to trash in the park, perhaps additional resources could be provided to the South Dakota Ave Clean Team? I also spoke with a representative from the Cafritz Foundation and they expressed interest, general support, and a willingness to partner too. The Parks Main Street has some ideas too, and if they come to fruition, I think the community will enjoy them (yes, that is a teaser). 

To reiterate though, I need your help. If we want resources to flow into this park, we need neighbors to stand up and volunteer their time. Would you consider attending a community meeting in January or February? We could bring NPS in, along with inviting local community groups, developers, and District government representatives. It would be great to hear your ideas in person. Raise your hand if you would attend, and I will put a meeting  on the calendar.

December 7: ANC 4B Comprehensive Plan Working Session

Posted by nextstoprp in ANC 4B

From ANC 4B:

Please join Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4B for a Comprehensive Plan Working Session on Saturday, December 7, 2019, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Metropolitan Police Department’s 4th District Headquarters, 6001 Georgia Ave., NW.

The Comprehensive Plan is a lengthy, high-level document that sets a long-term vision for the District’s future growth and development. The DC Office of Planning has launched an effort to amend the Comprehensive Plan to ensure that it remains responsive to the needs of the community. (More here: https://planning.dc.gov/page/comprehensive-plan and here: https://plandc.dc.gov/page/overview-and-how-guide).

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4B will be discussing proposed changes to the Rock Creek East Area Element (available here: https://plandc.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/op/page_content/attachments/Chapter%2022_Public_Review_Draft_RCE_Oct2019.pdf), which encompasses areas within the Commission’s boundaries, as well as the Citywide Elements (available here: https://plandc.dc.gov/page/draft-comprehensive-plan-update), which impact housing, transportation, and historic preservation, among other issues.

Advisory Neighborhood Commissions have until January 31, 2020 to submit community feedback to the DC Office of Planning regarding the proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan.

The December 7th meeting agenda is below.

Comprehensive Plan Working Session
Saturday, December 7, 2019, 2:00 pm-4:00 pm
MPD, 4th District Station, 6001 Georgia Avenue NW

Agenda

  1. Welcome & Comprehensive Plan Overview (Commissioner Parks & Commissioner Palmer)
    2:00 – 2:05 p.m.
  2. Breakout Session I – Rock Creek East Area Element
    2:05 – 2:30 p.m.
  3. Report Back from Breakout Session I
    2:30 – 2:50 p.m.
  4. Breakout Session II – Context & Citywide Elements
    2:50 – 3:15 p.m. 
  5. Report Back from Breakout Session II
    3:15 – 3:35 p.m. 
  6. Future Land Use Map Discussion
    3:35 p.m. – 3:55 p.m. 
  7. Next Steps (Commissioner Parks)
    3:55 – 4:00 p.m.

    Next Regular Public Meeting:  Monday, January 27, 2020, 7:00 p.m., MPD, 4th District Station, 6001 Georgia Ave., NW

Four Stars for LaSalle-Backus Education Campus

Posted by nextstoprp in Education

Neighborhood school LaSalle-Backus Education Campus received 4 stars on the latest DC School Report Card. The school received 3 stars last year. The improvement in the star rating comes on the heels of the school’s recognition as a leveler elementary school by the DC Policy Center. The Center describes a leveler school as one that meets the high targets for growth for their at-risk students. This is quite the turnaround for the school, which just 10 years ago was under restructuring for failure to make adequate yearly progress.

I remember when former principal Justin Ralston was installed at LaSalle in 2016 and he noted that residents and others thought of LaSalle as a failing school, but he did not view the school that way. The school has made steady improvements every year since. The school cycled through interim principals due to an incident at Roosevelt High School that resulted in Mr. Ralston’s abrupt installation as interim principal at that school in October 2018. Shelly Gray, who served as an assistant principal at LaSalle for several years, became the new permanent principal of LaSalle in June 2019.

Whittier Education Campus, which serves the Lamond community as well, also received 4 stars. The DC Policy Center recognized Whittier as a leveler middle school. Whittier and LaSalle are in the middle of phasing out their middle school grades.

Kudos to both school communities.

Lamond-Riggs Library Design Unveiled

Posted by nextstoprp in Lamond Riggs Library

By Robert Oliver (Contributor)

On Tuesday, November 19, over 40 community members met at the Lamond-Riggs Library to attend the latest community engagement meeting on the new Lamond-Riggs Library design. DC Public Library Director Richard Reyes-Gavilan hosted the meeting and introduced the HGA architect team led by Peter Cook, Design Principal.

Mr. Reyes-Gavilan gave a brief summary of the project timeline. He stated that the Lamond-Riggs Library project began in fall 2017, has a projected closing of summer 2020, and will reopen by late 2021. He also thanked his team and the Lamond-Riggs Library Friends for the work done so far. Next, Mr. Cook spoke.

Mr. Cook cited that the community emphasized three elements which, in turn, drove the design process: Natural Light, Quiet Spaces, and Local History. Then, he touched upon the site and building considerations faced by his team. Although the current site looks spacious, it contains three setbacks (two at 15’ and one at 20’) that frame the building’s size to 11,800 square feet per floor. Based on these restrictions and a heritage tree on Jefferson Street NE, the current parking lot size and location was deemed optimal. The library entrance will be moved closer to Kennedy Street, shortening the walk to the parking lot. Also, the building contour was modified from a rectangle to a parallelogram, with children’s and adult/teen programming on the first and second floors, respectively. Lastly, the building will feature a ground-level front porch, second floor balcony facing Jefferson Street NE, and a stormwater garden at the rear. 

The interior features a 100-seat, dividable meeting room and a smaller room supporting 12 to 20 occupants. Several study rooms are planned that support between four and six occupants. To address community history, Mr. Cook suggested the concept of a Heritage Wall that the community will develop. Before taking questions, Mr. Cook welcomed community input on the project.

The following are responses to audience questions:

  • The number of parking spaces remains the same, which is estimated at 11.
  • A bus stop at South Dakota Avenue and Kennedy Street NE was requested. WMATA makes the ultimate decision.
  • A bump-out at the intersection of South Dakota Avenue and Jefferson Street NE was requested.  It will be looked into.
  • Food will be allowed in the library per current policy.
  • A room for the Lamond-Riggs Library Friends is allocated.
  • A request for more books in Chinese, Spanish and other languages was made.
  • The new library will meet the LEED Silver standard, but no green roof will be installed.
  • Additional artwork, including sculpture, is under consideration.
  • The interim library will be located at the Modern at Art Place, pending execution of a lease agreement.

View the full presentation at https://www.slideshare.net/DCPublicLibrary/dc-public-library-new-lamondriggs-library.

The project website is https://www.dclibrary.org/newlamondriggs.

November 13, 2019 ANC 5A Meeting Recap

Posted by nextstoprp in Uncategorized

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, ANC 5A held its November meeting on November 13, 2019. Commissioners present: Frank Wilds (5A01); Grace Lewis (5A02); Chair Ronnie Edwards (5A05); Sandi Washington (5A07); Gordon Fletcher (5A08)

The ANC approved its fiscal year 2020 budget.

MPD Report

See resources and MPD stats for November here.

Ramdass Pharmacy was robbed of narcotics on Monday, November 4 around 2:30 am. Other pharmacies across the city were robbed the same week. Ramdass was robbed again at gunpoint on November 11 around 3:30 pm. T-Mobile on South Dakota Avenue has also been robbed a couple of times. Lt. Patrick Schaut said MPD has discussed security issues with both stores. For T-Mobile, Lt. Schaut said MPD has to go through corporate headquarters to obtain video and it is up to corporate headquarters what kind of security they want to have in their store.

There have been a couple of street robberies. As it is getting dark early, be aware of surroundings. Do not walk with phones out or earbuds in.

If you are doing online selling or buying and arranging for pickup of items, arrange to meet up at a police station. As holiday season approaches, have deliveries delivered to safe locations. Try not to have deliveries sitting unattended on the porch.

Ward 5 Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie Report

Councilmember McDuffie has two new staff members–Legislative Counsel Sandra Karpinsky and Committee Director Justin Roberts. Senior Advisor Silas Grant will be conducting a walkthrough of Commissioner Gordon Fletcher’s SMD (5A08) with Commissioner Fletcher, a Ward 5 MOCR, and DDOT on November 21 at 4:30 pm. Meet at the corner of South Dakota Avenue and Galloway Street NE.

The councilmember’s holiday party/toy drive will be on December 12 at Dock 5 at Union Market.

Rocketship Charter School

On October 28, 2019, the DC Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB) approved the opening of Rocketship’s third campus at 5450 Kennedy Street NE. Rocketship returned to the ANC to explain the kidnapping that occurred at its Rocketship RISE campus in Ward 8 on October 11. The incident was reported by Fox 5 DC.

Joyanna Smith, Rocketship DC Regional Director, stated that on October 11, Rocketship RISE Academy was holding parent-teacher conferences so the school was actually closed. Parents asked if care could be provided all day for parents who needed it, so Rocketship asked its before and aftercare provider Springboard to provide care for the day. Ms. Smith said that the school has two sets of doors, one at the entrance where visitors must be buzzed in. The second set is manned by a paid, off-duty police officer. A mother went to the school for her two sons. The alleged kidnapper walked in behind the mother and at the second set of doors, told the officer that he was with the mother and that she was the mother of his children. The officer believed him, did not ask for identification, and allowed him to enter. Then the alleged perpetrator went to the gym where the boys were playing and after playing with them for about 15 minutes, persuaded them to leave the gym with him. A Rocketship office manager saw the alleged perpetrator with the boys and suspected something was amiss and took the boys away from the man. Police were called and only then did anyone realize that the individual was a registered sex offender and that he should not have been on the property.

Rocketship terminated its relationship with Springboard as of November 8, 2019. Ms. Smith said she was not informed about the incident until several days after it happened and only a few days before DCPCSB’s October 28th meeting. She stated that probably the biggest failure was not alerting parents within 24 hours of the incident, so they are working to regain the trust of parents, which she said is a difficult process for everyone. They are also working on protocols to make sure everyone knows security procedures and each person’s role and responsibility, so that the communication gap between the school’s leadership and Rocketship leadership does not happen again.

There was protracted discussion among the commissioners led by Commissioner Frank Wilds (5A01) about whether the ANC should go on record with a vote on the school. This even though DCPCSB already held its public meeting and approved opening a third campus, and the ANC had several opportunities to take a vote and to submit comments before the new campus was approved and did not do so. Commissioner Wilds accused Commissioner Fletcher of “being on the take,” but offered no details on what that was supposed to mean. Commissioners Wilds, Grace Lewis (5A02), and Sandi Washington (5A07) voted in favor of taking a vote, with Commissioner Fletcher opposed. It was unclear how Chair Ronnie Edwards (5A05) voted. Chair Edwards stated the ANC will not have a December meeting, so it is unclear when exactly they plan to conduct this vote.

Construction on the interior of the new campus will continue throughout the winter months. Rocketship will continue to attend the ANC meetings to provide construction and other updates.

Social Justice Charter School

As previously noted, Social Justice Charter School will operate a middle school at Rocketship’s new Riggs Park campus beginning in school year 2020-2021. Representatives of the Social Justice School returned to talk about their school model. Students have crews and learning is based on a social justice model for each class. Social Justice School representatives hold a community engagement event each month. This month’s event is a design competition at Lamond-Riggs Library on November 23 at 2:00 pm. The school anticipates having a hearing before the DCPCSB in February 2020 about the school’s facilities. A condition of the school’s conditional charter approval is that the school must show that it has a lease or title for a sufficient school facility by February 2020.

Miscellaneous

During the community concerns portion of the meeting, I stated that I believe the ANC should have some sort of code of conduct because Commissioner Wilds continued to behave in a very unprofessional, inappropriate manner. Aside from constantly haranguing Commissioner Fletcher as well as guests to the ANC, he has more than once yelled at me on public streets, making false statements. Even though he would often miss ANC meetings, he would be sure to come to LRCA meetings on a monthly basis when I was president simply to disrupt them by constantly yelling about long-settled issues. During one such meeting, he told the treasurer of LRCA at that time “to go back to Africa.” He told a white resident that she should move out of the neighborhood and that she would never be welcome here. He still refuses to apologize for his very inappropriate behavior. I noted this is the same man who constantly defends Jack Evans amidst Evans’s very clear ethics violations. Commissioner Wilds did not have any comments during the meeting after I made my statement. But right after the meeting, he stormed up to me, got right in my face, wagging his finger in my face, saying that I am “disgusting.” Neighbors, this is a near 80-year-old man who knows better and should be doing better and none of the commissioners remaining in the room stepped in to tell him to chill. The ANC really needs to do a better job of speaking up when commissioners are behaving inappropriately.

November 25: ANC 4B Public Meeting

Posted by nextstoprp in ANC 4B

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4B 

Regular Public Meeting

Monday, November 25, 2019, 7:00 p.m.

MPD, 4th District Station, 6001 Georgia Ave., NW

Agenda

1. Call to Order & Roll Call

2.        Old Business (if applicable)

3.        Consideration and Approval of Agenda

4.        Approval of October Regular Public Meeting Minutes

5.        Approval of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4B Annual Report

6.        Treasurer’s Report and Approval of Reimbursement of Expenses to ANC 4A

7.        Reports:

A. Metropolitan Police Department, 4th District (3 minutes)

B. Office of Ward 4 Councilmember Brandon T. Todd (3 minutes)C. Mayor’s Office of Community Relations and Services (3 minutes)
D. Ward 4 State Board of Education Representative Frazier O’Leary (3 minutes)
8.        Community Concerns: This is the time for questions or statements from members of the public about issues on the agenda or other areas of concern. Please limit your statement or question to one minute.

9.        Presentation: Tischa Cockrell, 1st Vice President, Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association & Terry Goings, Ward 4 Education Alliance, Rocketship PCS Riggs Campus (Commissioner Parks – 5 minute presentation; 5 minute discussion)

10.     Presentation: Sassan Gharai, SGA Companies, Proposed Development at 300-308 Carroll Street, NW & 325 Vine Street, NW (Commissioner Bromaghim – 5 minute presentation; 5 minute discussion)

11.     Presentation: Kevin A. Brown, Montage Development Group, Proposed Development at 225 Vine Street, NW (Commissioner Bromaghim – 5 minute presentation; 5 minute discussion)

12.     Consent Calendar:

Resolution 4B-19-1101: Supporting Necessary Funding for Lighting and Pathway at Takoma Community Center (Commissioner Knickerbocker)

13.     Resolution 4B-19-1102: Supporting Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for Walmart, 310 Riggs Road, NE (ABRA-109874) (Commissioner Huff – 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

14.     Resolution 4B-19-1103: Protesting Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for Boulevard Lounge, 6233 Georgia Ave, NW (ABRA-115385) (Commissioner Knickerbocker – 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

15.     Resolution 4B-19-1104: Supporting Renewal of Alcoholic Beverage License for S&S Wine & Spirits, 6925 4th Street, NW (ABRA-114978) (Commissioner Palmer – 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

16.     Resolution 4B-19-1105: Supporting Renewal of Alcoholic Beverage License for Takoma Station Tavern, 6914 4th Street, NW (ABRA-079370) (Commissioner Palmer – 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

17.     Resolution 4B-19-1106: Supporting Renewal of Alcoholic Beverage License for The V.I.P. Room, 6201 3rd Street, NW (ABRA-105823) (Commissioner Parks- 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

18.     Resolution 4B-19-1107: Supporting Renewal of Alcoholic Beverage License for Jackie Lee’s, 116 Kennedy Street, NW (ABRA-105767) (Commissioner Brooks – 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

19.     Resolution 4B-19-1008: Resolution on Trinity Episcopal Church (BZA 20111) (Commissioner Yeats – 3 minute presentation; 3 minute discussion)

20.     Adjournment

Please Note: Anyone in the audience may speak on any subject during “Community Concerns.” You may also contact members of the Commission before and after Commission meetings. Discussion on other agenda items will generally be limited to Commissioners. Finally, the meeting may not last beyond 9:00 p.m. unless extended by a two/thirds vote of the Commission.

Next Regular Public Meeting:  Monday, January 27, 2019, 7:00 p.m., MPD, 4th District Station, 6001 Georgia Ave., NW

Contact your Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner: ANC 4B01 Evan Yeats (4B01@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B02 Erin Palmer (4B02@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B03 Scot Knickerbocker (4B03@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B04 Brenda Parks (4B04@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B05 Perry Redd (4B05@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B06 Tiffani Nichole Johnson (4B06@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B07 Geoff Bromaghim (4B07@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B08 Alison Brooks (4B08@anc.dc.gov); ANC 4B09 LaRoya Huff (4B09@anc.dc.gov)

Erin Palmer, Secretary, ANC 4B

ANC 4B02 Commissioner