Yesterday, Mayor Muriel Bowser gave her “State of the District” address. Below are her prepared remarks, copied from the mayor’s website.

—

Good evening, fellow Washingtonians. I’m here tonight, humble and proud to be your Mayor.

It is an honor to have the opportunity to deliver the 2015 State of the District Address.

Today, I am pleased to report, that the District is strong… and growing stronger.

We are one of the strongest economies in the country.   We are the economic engine of the region accounting for one quarter of the job market, and in the last year, over two-thirds of its private sector job growth;

We are the number one tech hot spot and among the top ten cities for venture capital investment. Forbes Magazine even says we’re the coolest;
Wall Street knows our city finances are strong, and this year, increased our bond rating;

We are a Top 5 U.S. Cities for New Construction; Top 10 Most Walkable City in the U.S.; #2 Fittest City (we’ll catch you, Minneapolis/St-Paul!); #1 in U.S. for attracting entrepreneurial founders of companies; and the #2 Best paying U.S. City for Women;

We are home to the best new restaurant in America, and we are a Top 5 Best U.S. City for a Vacation;

No wonder we’re also one of the fastest growing cities in the country.
Big cities – like the District of Columbia – have world-class schools, parks, and libraries. They are home to vibrant cultural institutions that highlight the arts and entertainment. We are making strides in these areas too.

But we all know that there is room to improve.

Continue reading →