Dear Neighbors,
I’m writing to share ways to beat the heat this weekend (including extended pool hours and citywide cooling centers), logistics ahead of Citi Open, more hard-fought traffic safety improvements, opportunities to serve as an ANC Commissioner, changes to the residential trash collection process, the public input process for the future of Upper Beach Drive, and many great Ward 4 events coming up soon.
Ward 4 News
Extended Pool Hours This Weekend and Cooling Centers
Today, Saturday, and Sunday (July 22-24) DPR has extended pool hours at Upshur Pool and many other outdoor pools to 10am-8pm to help neighbors stay cool! Banneker Pool, Hearst Pool, Langdon Park Pool, and Harry Thomas Sr. Pool are other pools near Ward 4 with extended hours. Check out the announcement for a full list of pools in DC that have extended hours. All other pools will operate with their regular schedule. And of course, we’ll have our spray parks open too! Tip: pools will be crowded this weekend, so arrive early to save a spot. Or have a backup plan if your first-choice pool is full.
In anticipation of high temperatures throughout the weekend, a heat emergency has been activated for the District and will be in effect through Monday, July 25. Here is a list of cooling centers citywide, where neighbors can go to beat the heat. Anyone in need of transportation to a cooling center should call 202-399-7093 or dial 311. Stay safe and look out for our neighbors, Ward 4!
More Traffic Safety Improvements Coming to Ward 4
I’m continuing to work hard alongside neighbors, community leaders, and ANC Commissioners to secure additional traffic safety improvements across Ward 4. Here are some of the latest approved changes for our community’s awareness. Remember: the first step to request any traffic safety improvement is to ask for a Traffic Safety Investigation via the 311 website.
- A 4-way stop was approved at 13th and Hamilton St NW in Sixteenth Street Heights, which will improve safety for all — especially for the many children who cross here to walk to school or Hamilton Rec Center.
- A new 4-way stop was also just installed at 13th and Ingraham St NW, making a dangerous intersection much safer!
- After our traffic safety walkthrough in Crestwood, DDOT has approved the installation of a speed table on the 4700 block of Blagden Ave NW.
- DDOT will be adding a protected-only left turn phase at the traffic light on Kalmia & Georgia NW for drivers traveling northbound on Georgia Avenue, improving safety for drivers and pedestrians. This comes after our traffic safety walkthrough in Shepherd Park earlier this year, as well as years of advocacy from neighbors, multiple crashes, and the Rock Creek East Livability Study.
- Come September, the 79 Express MetroBus will add a northbound stop at Georgia & Upshur and a southbound stop at Georgia & Kansas in Petworth. This will help even more folks enjoy all the new amenities we have in this area.
- The speed limit on North Capitol Street/Blair Road NW from Harewood Road all the way up to Van Buren Street NW will be reduced from 30mph to 25mph.
- This coming school year, we will have crossing guards coming to Raymond Elementary @Myer at 11th & Clifton NW, Breakthrough PCS at Blair Road & Aspen NW, Barnard Elementary at 4th & New Hampshire NW, and Lafayette Elementary at 5701 Broad Branch Rd NW.
- The 400 block of Decatur St NW will be getting two speed bumps to improve safety for children after our traffic safety walkthrough at Barnard Elementary this past spring.
- The dangerous 5th and Webster NW intersection off Grant Circle will be converted to an all-way stop.
- New speed bumps or speed tables will also be installed on the 5700-5800 blocks of Broad Branch Rd NW, the 3100 block of Northampton St NW, the 1600 block of North Portal Dr NW, the 500 block of Aspen St NW, the 500-800 blocks of Fern Pl NW, the unit block of Underwood Pl NW, the unit block of Underwood Pl NE, the 6000 block of 7th St NW, the unit block of Nicholson St NW, the unit block of Milmarson Pl NW, the unit block of Jefferson St NE, the 5300 block of 2nd St NW, the 5200 block of 7th St NW, the 800 block of Hamilton St NW, the 5000 block of Illinois Ave NW, the 5100 block of Illinois Ave NW, the 5000 block of 7th Pl NW, and the 800-1200 block of Quincy St NW.
Parking Restrictions in Ward 4 for Citi Open Tournament
The prestigious Citi Open tennis tournament will return to Ward 4 on July 30-August 7 at Carter Barron. Preparations are underway to mitigate the impact placed on nearby residents. This week the map with parking restrictions in nearby streets was released. Each household in a street with restricted parking will receive two weeklong parking passes so they can continue parking on their street. These parking passes will start being distributed to households today. If any resident impacted by parking restrictions does not receive their passes or needs additional passes, they can go to MPD’s Fourth District and receive additional passes after they verify their address with an ID. And if any residents inadvertently receive parking tickets, they should contact the Ward 4 MOCRs at ward4mocrs@yahoo.com to resolve them. The Mayor’s office is coordinating logistics for the Citi Open tournament, so please contact our dedicated Ward 4 MOCRs with any other inquiries as well. Parking for the tournament will be available on the lot adjacent to the tennis courts and on the grass fields, with satellite parking will also available in Friendship Heights, with shuttles running throughout the day. There will also be a rideshare drop-off point available for individuals using taxis, Lyft, or Uber. Meanwhile, tickets are available for purchase on the Citi Open website, which also has the full lineup of players and schedule.
Community Resources
Serve Our Community by Running to be an ANC Commissioner
If you have been thinking about how to serve our community, a great option could be running to serve as an ANC Commissioner. ANC Commissioners are nonpartisan, part-time volunteer elected officials who represent the interests of their immediate neighborhood (approximately 2,000 residents) on issues ranging from development, public safety, traffic changes, and much more. Petitions to run for ANC became available on July 20 and must be submitted back to the Board of Elections by August 10 with at least 25 valid signatures from registered voters in your Single Member District (SMD). Please consider running or encouraging a neighbor who you believe would do a great job. Here are some resources that could be helpful as you consider running: new official ANC and SMD Boundaries to locate your SMD and ANC 2022 Election Information on how to run for ANC. Happy to answer any questions!
DPW Residential Collection Shifts An Hour Early Starting July 31
Starting Sunday, July 31 until Saturday, September 3, DPW trash and recycling collection will shift an hour earlier with crews reporting to work at 6am and beginning their routes by 6:30am. By starting collections earlier, DPW workers can shield themselves from the intense heat that DC experiences during this time period. Residents will be able to place their trash and recyclables outside for pick-up starting at 6pm the night before their collection day so they do not have to adjust their morning schedules to accommodate this change from DPW.
Weigh In with NPS on the Future of Upper Beach Drive
Last week the National Park Service has proposed a seasonal and weekend closure of Upper Beach Drive. Under this proposal, Upper Beach Drive would remain closed to vehicular traffic from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year and on weekends year-round, but open to cars on weekdays after Labor Day. The decision is not final yet; there is a new public comment period that will last until August 11. Please visit the NPS website to submit your comments at the bottom of the page to weigh in on this proposal. In addition, you can read NPS’s full environmental assessment for their rationale and an updated traffic impact study from DDOT. Upper Beach Drive will remain closed to cars until NPS makes their final decision after reviewing this round of public comments.
Ward 4 Block Parties and Meet-and-Greets
If you’re having a block party in Ward 4 and would like to have your Ward 4 Councilmember there, I’m happy to join you and other neighbors! Contact me at jlewisgeorge@dccouncil.us to share the details of your block party so my team and I can be there. I’m also happy to attend meet-and-greets with Ward 4 residents, and will be out in senior centers and farmers markets in Ward 4 to keep connecting with neighbors. Hope to run into you at some point this summer! Relatedly, here is a great guide on how to host a block party from Petworth News.
Pre-Register to Receive the Monkeypox Vaccine in DC
DC residents can now pre-register for Monkeypox vaccination appointments by visiting preventmonkeypox.dc.gov. Once appointments become available, individuals will receive an email invitation to make a vaccination appointment and have 48 hours to claim their appointment. Here are the current eligibility criteria for monkeypox vaccination, but residents who do not meet the current eligibility criteria are still encouraged to pre-register so they can notified about appointments if eligibility expands.
Safe Passage Program Expands into Ward 4 Next School Year
This coming school year, the Safe Passage program will expand into Ward 4 to serve Petworth and Brightwood Park. This is something I advocated for, and I’m grateful to the Deputy Mayor for Education for partnering to get it done. Safe Passage teams will be placed on identified safe routes to help students travel to and from school safely. They will also participate in violence prevention and mediation efforts, host after-school programs, and strengthen relationships with students and school personnel. The new Safe Passage program in Ward 4 will focus on Roosevelt STAY, Capital City PCS, EL Haynes, McFarland, Ida B. Wells MS, Paul PCS, and Deal. Meanwhile, Roosevelt and Coolidge are both already served by a separate Safe Passage program. Check out the Request for Applications seeking an organization to manage the new Safe Passage site in our community.
Petworth Main Street Hiring Director, Upper Georgia Avenue Seeks Community Board
The new Petworth Main Street is hiring a Deputy Director to run the organization and help Petworth small businesses continue to grow and succeed. Learn more about the position on Petworth News and share the job posting on Idealist. Meanwhile, Upper Georgia Avenue Main Street is in search of community advisory committee members. They’re looking for residents, business owners, or community leaders to help shape the priorities for UGAMS as it supports businesses along our Upper Georgia Avenue business corridor. If you are interested, please email jessicam@nonprofitadvacement.org.
DC Health Now Offers At-Home COVID Testing
DC residents who need reasonable accommodations, especially those who have difficulty leaving their homes, can now receive at-home COVID testing from DC Health every Monday through Saturday. Appointment requests can be made by calling the DC Health COVID Call Center at 855-363-0333 at least one day in advance. A registered nurse will arrive at the resident’s home with both PCR and rapid-antigen testing options and assist with tests.
DC Residents 21+ Can Now Self-Certify Their Need for Medical Cannabis
As of July 6, DC residents who are at least 21 years old can now self-certify when applying for a medical cannabis patient registration, instead of having to secure a recommendation from their healthcare provider. By registering, DC residents can purchase cannabis from one of DC’s licensed dispensaries, including Takoma Wellness Center in Ward 4. Registering is free until August 18, and registrations issued through September 30 are valid for two years from date of issuance. The new self-certification flexibility is the result of DC Council legislation.
Petworth Main Street Hiring Director, Upper Georgia Avenue Seeks Community Board
The new Petworth Main Street is hiring a Deputy Director to run the organization and help Petworth small businesses continue to grow and succeed. Learn more about the position on Petworth News and share the job posting on Idealist. Meanwhile, Upper Georgia Avenue Main Street is in search of community advisory committee members. They’re looking for residents, business owners, or community leaders to help shape the priorities for UGAMS as it supports businesses along our Upper Georgia Avenue business corridor. If you are interested, please email jessicam@nonprofitadvacement.org.
Relief for DC Homeowners, Condo Owners, and Coop Owners Who Fell Behind
The $50 million DC received in federal relief funds are now available for DC homeowners who fell behind during the pandemic. This program can cover up to $120,000 per eligible household in mortgage payments and other expenses, such as: housing association fees, condo fees, coop fees, property taxes, utilities, internet bills, and more. To be eligible, you must be a DC homeowner with your home serving as your primary residence since June 2021, must have fallen behind on housing or utility expenses, must fall within the income guidelines, and must have experienced financial hardship during the pandemic. To learn more or apply for these essential funds, visit haf.dc.gov.
Neighborhood Events
Councilmember Community Office Hours at the Uptown Farmers Market
On Saturday, July 23 from 10am-12pm my team and I will be at Uptown Farmers Market (14th & Kennedy NW) for community office hours. Come by to get help with constituent issues, share insights on legislation, or talk about how to improve our community!
Lamond-Riggs/Lillian J. Huff Library Community Day
On Saturday, July 23 from 11am-3pm the Lamond-Riggs/Lillian J. Huff Library (5401 South Dakota Ave NE) will host a community day for neighbors to celebrate their new library! Come out to contribute to the Lamond-Riggs (Lillian J. Huff) Library Heritage Wall, enjoy a performance by family favorite, Grammy-nominated artist Uncle Devin, explore the beautiful new library with guided building tours, and participate in crafts and other fun activities.
Paint Recycling Drop-off and Giveaway Event at Ida B
On Saturday, July 23 from 9am-1pm PaintCare is hosting a free paint recycling drop-off and giveaway event for households and businesses. Paint in good condition will be made available to the public for free. Households may bring any amount of paint, stain, and varnish, but some limits apply to businesses. Space is limited so be sure to register for this event.
2nd Annual “Stop the Violence” Football Camp
On Saturday, July 23 starting at 10am Coach Kevin will host the second annual “Stop the Violence” Football Camp at Coolidge High School for kids ages 8-14. The event honors Antonio Lee Burnett Jr., who lost his life to gun violence in 2022. Please contact Coach Kevin at 202-498-7580 for more information or with any questions.
Summer Saturdays at the Garden at 516 Kennedy Street NW
On Saturday, July 23 at 10am-12pm (and every Saturday through August 13) City Blossoms invites neighbors to join Summer in their Studio Garden at 516 Kennedy Street NW for Summer Saturdays. Bring your family, friend, or just yourself to explore the garden and enjoy a community gathering space with kid-friendly activities. Anyone who lends a hand is welcome to take home some garden goodies as part of the “you help, you harvest” policy.
Opening Reception: Art For All New Outdoor and Indoor Sculpture Gallery
On Saturday, July 23 from 2pm-5pm Zenith Gallery will host an opening reception for its new Art for All exhibit, featuring outdoor sculptures and an eclectic mix of paintings, mixed media, prints and indoor sculptures. This exhibition will span two Zenith locations: 1429 Iris Street NW and 7350 Georgia Ave NW. Don’t forget to RSVP (masks and vaccine cards required).
Artist Talk with Candy Carver at Art of Noize
On Saturday, July 23 from 4pm-6pm Art of Noize Gallery will host an artist talk with North Carolina-based artist Candy Carver, who creates electric and brightly colored contemporary artwork that encompasses bold colors and utilizes abstract design, alongside figurative subjects. Refreshments will be available for patrons, and work will be available for purchase.
Movies on the Lawn at the Parks at Walter Reed: “Hidden Figures”
On Saturday, July 23 from 5pm-10pm the Parks at Walter Reed will host a free outdoor movie night on the Great Lawn with a showing of Hidden Figures. The fun begins at 5:30pm with a music performance from DC-based singer Jenna Camille. The event will feature local vendors providing cider, ice cream, tacos, and more. Blankets will be available (if the ground isn’t too wet). Bring your own chairs, picnics, and popcorn, and enjoy this family-friendly movie. Walking or biking is recommended, and $10 parking is available on premises at Abrams Hall.
Pediatric Immunization Mobile Clinic at Truesdell in Brightwood Park
On Wednesday, July 27 from 10am-4pm DC Health will host a mobile immunization clinic at Truesdell Elementary in Ward 4 on the lower parking lot on 8th Street between Ingraham and Hamilton Streets, NW. If your child still needs to catch up on their required immunizations before the start of school, come to this free clinic that’s open to all students and doesn’t require insurance or proof of citizenship. You can walk up or pre-register for an appointment at this link.
DPR Summer 2022 Outdoor Movie Nights
One of the best summer traditions in DC are outdoor movie nights. Check out the outdoor movie screenings hosted by DPR’s Roving Leaders this summer, including many at our Ward 4 parks and rec centers. Please keep in mind that outdoor movie nights are subject to cancellation due to weather.
- Tuesday, July 26 at 7pm: Petworth Rec Center, 801 Taylor St NW
- Tuesday, August 16 at 7pm: Upshur Park, 4300 Arkansas Ave NW
DPR Jazz in the Parks Series in Ward 4
DPR is hosting a series of pop-up Jazz in the Parks music and art installations at parks across DC, including in Ward 4. The events are free and feature local artists, musicians, and civic demonstrations celebrating DC culture. Ward 4 Jazz in the Parks events are taking place on:
- Thursday, July 28 at 6:30pm at the Riggs LaSalle Rec Center (501 Riggs Rd NE)
- Thursday, August 11 at 6:30pm at the Petworth Rec Center (801 Taylor St NW)
Visit your local Ward 4 Farmers Market on Saturdays from 9am-1pm:
- Petworth Community Market at 9th & Upshur NW
- Chevy Chase Farmers Market at Lafayette Elementary
- Uptown Farmers Market at 5501 Colorado Ave NW (I will be there for community office hours this Saturday, July 23 from 10am-12pm. Come by!)
Councilmember Community Office Hours at Petworth Community Market
On Saturday, July 30 from 10am-12pm my team and I will be at Petworth Community Market (9th & Upshur) for community office hours. Come by to get help with constituent issues, share insights on legislation, or talk about how we can improve our community.
Petworth Jazz Project Returns with Brian Settles Quartet
On Saturday, July 30 starting from 5pm-8pm the Petworth Jazz Project returns after a long hiatus with a performance at Petworth Rec Center (8th and Taylor NW). This popular free music event kicks off at 5pm with kids’ music from Papa Ras D, followed by the main attraction at 6pm. Nearby businesses will offer specials ahead of this summer-time highlight event.
RESCHEDULED: Outdoor Movie Night with “Turning Red” at Larry Allen Park
On Saturday, July 30 starting at 7pm DPR’s Roving Leaders will host an outdoor movie night at Larry Allen Memorial Park with a screening of “Turning Red” for families. Bring your own chairs and blankets and head over to Larry Allen Park at the intersection of Illinois Ave, Gallatin, 9th, and Hamilton Streets. This event was supposed to take place on July 21, but it was rescheduled due to rain.
DC Plant Swap at Hellbender Brewery
On Sunday, July 31 from 1pm-5pm Hellbender Brewery (5788 2nd St NE) will host a DC plant swap for neighbors to bring plants, cuttings, and accessories to trade! There will be a free table, as well as food and beverages for purchase from Hellbender, Cinder BBQ, and Nomad Dumplings. Don’t miss out!
Local Links
DCist: Solitary Confinement Could Be Banned At DC Jail, Youth Detention Facilities Under New Bill
DC SCORES: Raymond Elementary Poet-Athletes Practice with Bayern Munich Soccer Superstars at Audi Field
Petworth News: Share your opinion on what type of restaurant might open on Upshur
Previous Ward 4 Dispatch: School Readiness, Beach Drive, Dance Loft, Fort Stevens Day, and Run for ANC
DC Public Library: Dinosaur Roaring Contest 2022 Reel (featuring Petworthasaurus, Petworthadactyl, and more!)
You probably noticed that I include plenty of Ward 4 events in my newsletters. That’s because there are always so many fantastic events happening in our community that not enough neighbors hear about! These events are fun, family-friendly, and nearly always free — and by attending them you also help bring our community closer and support the small businesses, nonprofits, and neighbors who had a hand in planning them.
For instance, this Thursday we had a pop-up event with DC Public Library’s mobile unit (pictured below) featuring books, games, and other activities. The event was coordinated by Uptown Main Street, which supports businesses along Kennedy Street and part of 14th Street. But plenty of others stepped up too. Horton’s Funeral Home provided their parking lot for the event. Dance Loft donated their fans and provided dance lessons for the kids. I worked with DPR to provide misting fans to keep everyone cool. Charles from Everyday Sundae used his truck to drive over equipment to the event. And Donna Henry, the owner of Soup Up in Ward 4, came by to do story time for the children with her book, “My DC, My Go-Go.” It was truly a community effort.
Hope all of us can make it to Ward 4 events over the coming weeks!
Stay cool everyone.
Yours in Service,
—Janeese
