This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
I hope you had a wonderful Fourth of July weekend! This week, I’m sharing updates from our recent Summer Public Safety Meeting, information on the upcoming Citi Open Tournament, and an opportunity to testify to the Council on the future of the RFK campus. Lastly, as we head into our first vote on the FY26 budget next week, make sure to stay tuned for important updates.
Council News/Legislative Updates
First FY26 Budget Vote Taking Place on Monday
On Monday, July 14th, the full Council will take our first vote on the FY26 budget, followed by a second vote two weeks later on July 28th. Over the last two months, I’ve been working hard to make sure this is a budget that reflects our shared priorities— funding public schools, promoting affordable housing, protecting our safety net for families, and keeping our communities safe. While there are still open questions heading into the first votes about what the budget before us will look like, I will be fighting for an equitable budget that upholds our commitments to Ward 4 residents and supports our most vulnerable residents. Make sure to stay tuned for important updates coming out of the first vote next week!
Testify on the RFK Campus Redevelopment
On Tuesday, July 29th, the Council is holding a hearing on the RFK Campus Redevelopment Act of 2025, which will help determine the future of the RFK stadium land now under District control. This will be neighbors’ opportunity to make their voices heard on what they want to see for the future of RFK and how it can best serve the interests of Ward 4 and District residents. You can sign up to testify in-person or virtually by visiting the hearing page, or if you’re unable to testify live, submit written testimony here.
Community News
Summer Public Safety Meeting Recap
Last week, I held my Summer Public Safety Meeting alongside Chief Smith, Commander Lavenhouse, Attorney General Schwalb, and leaders from the Department of Buildings, the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, and the Wards 3 and 4 Prevention Center. Heading into the summer, the goal of the meeting was to discuss both urgent actions to prevent violence and long-term solutions to guide our young people and keep them on a positive path. Here were a few of the safety initiatives discussed at Wednesday’s meeting:
- Increased resources and patrols in specific areas. During the meeting, MPD committed to continuing increased patrols along the Kennedy Street corridor. While MPD has maintained a presence on Kennedy Street, they are making efforts to ensure greater enforcement in alleyways specifically. Department of Housing and Community Development (DCHD) community-based non-profits are also working to connect residents with services and engaging community groups.
- Expanding MPD’s CCTV footprint. MPD is regularly evaluating neighborhood needs and installing CCTVs to strengthen community safety. In this year’s budget oversight hearing, MPD also stated they are getting 200 new CCTV cameras, which I hope to work with MPD to ensure are used to meet unfulfilled needs in Ward 4.
- Securing personal vehicles. MPD officers reported that carjackings are down by nearly a third, but recognize that there is still work to be done. MPD has continued making this a focus of their work in the community by prioritizing arrests and closing cases.
- Addressing nuisance properties. MPD officers have begun doing walks through DCHA properties to address dangerous activity taking place. We also discussed my recently introduced Housing with Integrity Act and our ongoing work to ensure bad-actor landlords are held accountable.
- Empowering community-based organizations. The Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) is opening mini-grant programs specifically focused on addiction treatment and addressing the effects of the opioid crisis.
- Strengthening traffic safety. A core part of our public safety work is making sure our roads are safe. During Wednesday’s meeting, I discussed FY26 budget investments in ticketing and vehicle registration updates, and our work to pass the STEER Act, which now in effect has allowed DC to hold out-of-state reckless drivers accountable. In the last month, MPD has also targeted illegal use of mopeds and scooters, impounding nearly 300 citywide.
Mubadala Citi Open
Starting next weekend, the annual Mubadala Citi DC Open tournament is taking place at the Rock Creek Park Tennis Center, with matches from July 19th to 27th. Ahead of the tournament’s start, here are some important updates on the event and logistics, especially for nearby neighbors in Sixteenth Street Heights and Crestwood:
- As with the past several years, the Citi Open will be coordinated by the Mayor’s office with the support of our Ward 4 MOCRs, Yamileth Escobar (Yamileth.escobar2@dc.gov) and Leticia Acosta (leticia.acosta1@dc.gov).
- During the tournament, parking restrictions will be in effect for much of 16th Street Heights and Crestwood. View the planned map of areas with restricted parking here.
- Throughout this week, MOCRs have been canvassing neighborhoods to distribute parking passes to homes, churches, and businesses on restricted blocks. If you live in the restricted area and have not yet received a parking pass, you can pick one up at the 4th District MPD station. Neighbors must have passes out on display before the tournament begins. If you live in the area and are mistakenly issued a parking ticket, email one of our Ward 4 MOCRs.
- If you see an illegally parked vehicle or signage removed, reach out to DPW at 202-541-6083. I am asking DPW to respond immediately to any issues that come up during the event, particularly idling trucks, which has been of particular concern in recent years.
- If any issues arise, neighbors should submit a 311 request and email my team alongside our Ward 4 MOCRs and the relevant ANC commissioner. Your ANC commissioner will then respond with an update. To avoid confusion and have issues addressed as quickly as possible, please share concerns only through this channel.
Ward 4 Pop-Ups Begin!
Ward 4 Pop-Ups are back starting next week! After postponing this week’s events due to rain, we’re excited to kick off our updated schedule and bring agency resources directly to neighborhoods throughout July. These pop-ups are about taking up positive space, addressing community concerns, and building safer, stronger neighborhoods together. Here’s the updated schedule:
Community Resources
DPW Roll-Off Day at Fort Stevens
Roll-Off Day is coming to Ward 4 on Saturday, July 12th from 10am to 2pm at Fort Stevens Rec Center (1328 Van Buren St NW). Neighbors will have the opportunity to dispose of bulk trash and large items, including furniture, rugs, tables, and chairs. You can learn more about what is and is not accepted at cleancity.dc.gov.
Ward 4 Drug Free Zones in Effect
MPD has announced several drug free zones in Ward 4, which are now in effect until Monday, July 14th at 7:59am. The creation of these drug free zones was authorized by the Secure DC omnibus bill last year and allows MPD to order individuals to disperse from the zone if an officer “reasonably believes” the person is there to commit a drug offense. The boundaries of the drug free zone will be:
- 9th Street from Rock Creek Church Road to Quincy Street NW
- Quincy Street from 9th ST to 8th Street NW
- 8th Street from Quincy to Rock Creek Church Road NW
- Rock Creek Church Road from 8th Street to 9th Street NW
DC Water Piney Branch Tunnel Public Meeting
On Wednesday, July 16th from 5:30 to 7pm, DC Water is holding a public meeting on the Piney Branch Tunnel project, which will impact neighbors in much of Northwest DC, particularly around Rock Creek Park. The tunnel is part of the larger DC Clean Rivers Project to help make our local waterways cleaner and healthier and help ensure stormwater and sewage is contained. The meeting will take place at the Mt. Pleasant Neighborhood Library (3160 16th St NW). Click here for more details on the project.
Ward 4 Faith Leaders Peace Camp
Registration is open for Ward 4 Faith Leaders’ Peace Camp, a program for kids ages 9-13 to counter violence in our communities. The program runs from August 4th to 15th, and focuses on building self-esteem, teaching conflict resolution, and promoting anti-bullying to help kids maintain healthy, constructive, and balanced lifestyles. Learn more about the program and apply online at www.ward4faithleaders.com.
Learn About Brandywine Valley SPCA!
On January 1, 2025, the Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) entered into a partnership with DC Health aimed at enhancing and modernizing animal services in the District. BVSPCA is now responsible for all animal control, care, field, medical, and stray services, as well as adoptions for Washington, DC. BVSPCA’s expertise in animal care and control will be instrumental in ushering in and ensuring compassionate service for animals in DC. To learn more about BVSPCA’s services and resources for the District, visit their website.
SPACEs in Action Annual Health Fair
On Saturday, July 26th from 10am to 1pm, visit SPACEs in Action’s annual Health Fair at Emory Beacon of Light Church, with access to valuable health services, community programs, giveaways, family activities, and more—all in one welcoming space. Please fill out the form here to reserve your spot and let organizers know you’re coming!
DC Water Updates
DC Water has shared several updates on work taking place in Ward 4 neighborhoods. Keep in mind that construction activities are highly dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Here are some of this week’s updates:
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform roadway restoration and line striping activities on 7th St NW and Rittenhouse St NW.
- As part of the ongoing Chevy Chase Sanitary Sewer Project, DC Water is scheduled to perform sewer cleaning activities at the following locations for the duration of next week: 5300 block of 39th St NW, 3700 – 3800 blocks of Legation St NW, 3300 block of Military Rd NW, 3700 – 3800 blocks of Military Rd NW, 3700 block of Jocelyn St NW, 5200 – 5300 blocks of Connecticut Ave NW, 3800 block of Military Rd NW, 3600 -3700 blocks of Jenifer St NW, 5300 block of Nebraska Ave NW, 5300 block of Nevada Ave NW, 5300 block of 38th St NW, 3800 block of Kanawha St NW.
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform final walk-through activities on 8th St NW and Quintana Pl NW
Neighborhood Events
Late Night Hype at Riggs LaSalle
Tonight, July 11th from 7 to 11pm, DPR and MPD are bringing you a carnival-style Late Night Hype at Riggs LaSalle Rec Center, with food, music, games, dancing, and more! RSVP here.
Battle of Fort Stevens Commemoration
This weekend marks a special milestone in our community’s shared history, as we’re celebrating the 161st anniversary of the Civil War Battle of Fort Stevens — much of which took place right in Shepherd Park. On Saturday, the Alliance to Preserve the Civil War Defenses of Washington will be joining neighbors to commemorate this battle, which was the closest the Confederate armies came to Washington DC, and the only time in American history a sitting president watched a battle take place. I hope you’ll join as we recognize its important place in our shared history.
Touch a Fire Truck Story Time
For kids up to 12 years old, on Saturday, July 12th at 11am, visit the Shepherd Park Library for a special firefighter themed story time! After listening to exciting stories of bravery, kids will get the chance to meet real firefighters and touch a real firetruck.
Takoma Neighborhood Talent Show
Looking to hang with neighbors, build community, and celebrate our local talent? Join for a Takoma Neighborhood Talent Show on Sunday, July 13th from 4 to 6pm. It’s sure to be an afternoon of creativity, connection, and fun. Organizers are still looking for folks to share their talents, so please spread the word to students, creatives, friends, and loved ones who might enjoy performing. All forms of expression are welcome, including spoken word, music, comedy, zine readings, dance, and more! Snacks and drinks provided. Thanks to Takoma neighbors Erin Palmer and Paul Schwartz for organizing!
Volunteer Day with Shepherd Park Weed Warriors
On Sunday, July 13th from 9 to 11am, join the Shepherd Park Weed Warriors at Shepherd Field for a volunteer event to remove invasive plants with neighbors. Organizers will be there early to beat the heat. Bring water, and if you have gloves or any garden tools, bring them as well. Any questions can be emailed to shepherdpark-weedwarriors@gmail.com.
RSVP for Ward 4 Night at Nats Park!
Friday, July 18th is Ward 4 Night at Nats Park! Bring a friend, meet neighbors, and enjoy the game as the Nationals face off against the Padres. Tickets are first come, first served, and neighbors can RSVP here to pick up tickets at the stadium box office on gameday.
DPR Jazz in the Park
Throughout the summer, DPR is hosting Jazz in the Parks on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm. Join for free performances from local artists in scenic open spaces in Ward 4 and around DC. Grab a chair or blanket and come out to one of the upcoming events!
Summertime Jazz Concerts in Ward 4
Wednesday Jazz Series on Kennedy Street: Uptown Main Street hosts a free monthly jazz concert on Wednesdays on the 700 block of Kennedy St NW. Listen to jazz while you grab a bite from a local spot, and let the music carry you into the evening.
For more local events, check out DPR, DC Public Library, and NPS.
Important Reminders
Office Hours in the Community
Ward 4 office hours are happening every Wednesday afternoon at Fort Stevens Rec Center from 12 to 1pm, followed by office hours at Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center from 1:30 to 2:30pm. Community members can stop by and speak one-on-one with a member of our team about DC government services or our work in the Ward 4 community.
Support for Federal Workers
As many in our community face unprecedented challenges, I’m grateful to everyone who is stepping up to support neighbors. The Office of the Mayor has rolled out fedsupport.dc.gov, sharing resources for federal workers who have been laid off or impacted by recent cuts. I also want to remind neighbors of resources on my website for federal workers impacted by recent actions and neighbors facing the threat of immigration enforcement, compiled with the help of Councilmember Nadeau. DC government and the DC Council are also hiring for a range of positions, and I encourage community members to take a look at the open positions and share with a neighbor.
Ward 4 in the News
Next Stop…Riggs Park: July 11: Late Night Hype at Riggs-LaSalle Rec – Registration Required
The 51st: How The 51st (and our readers) stay cool in D.C. summers
Next Stop…Riggs Park: July 9 & 12: South Dakota Avenue Safety Project Public Meeting
Ward 4 Dispatch: Public Safety Meeting Tonight, Ward 4 Pop-Ups Begin, and Fourth of July Weekend
These are news articles that mention Ward 4 or pertain to events in our community. Councilmember Lewis George does not write or endorse their content but shares them for community awareness.
Over the last week, I have been heartbroken to see the catastrophic floods in Central Texas that have taken over 100 lives and left many more displaced. My thoughts are with every family whose lives have been upended and am grateful to the first responders who have been working heroically to save lives. In the face of this immense tragedy, I am nonetheless inspired by the strength of the Central Texas community and the way people have come together to demonstrate support through acts of compassion, generosity, and commitment to one another.
Wishing you a good weekend, neighbors.
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
