This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Spring is here! The weather is starting to warm up and cherry blossoms are in full bloom, so make sure to get out and enjoy the spring blooms in our Ward 4 community. It was another busy week on the Council and in Ward 4. Spring always brings plenty of great opportunities to get out in the community, and I’m sharing plenty of resources, volunteer opportunities, and events happening over the next few weeks, including DPR’s first Late Night Hype of the year at Emery Rec Center and my Senior Bingo event next Thursday. Plus, updates on our work to promote student safety, protect affordable childcare, and more.
Community News
Addressing Construction Concerns in Ward 4
Over the last few weeks, I have heard neighbors’ concerns loud and clear about issues with ongoing construction in Ward 4 neighborhoods, particularly on Kennedy Street, 14th Street, and Colorado Ave. We all have the right to safety on our streets and transparency around construction activity, and I have been out to monitor the situation and been in communication with relevant agencies. In speaking with DDOT, I have requested several changes to improve safety in this area, including more crossing guards around schools, a clearly demarcated footpath across Kennedy Street/Colorado Ave with a barrier between path and construction, clearer signage and barriers for cars traveling along 14th Street, and further measures to prevent bulldozers and machinery from crossing normal sidewalks and walkways. I am also aware of issues Washington Gas construction may have caused on Military Road, where neighbors have raised concerns about the impact to their homes when heavy vehicles drive on the area of the road Washington Gas repaved. I am working to bring agencies together to hear directly from community members and determine what improvements can be made.
Ward 4 Student Safety Convening
Yesterday, I was grateful to join students, families, and community members for a Student Safety Convening at People’s Congregational UCC in Ward 4. The event was focused on bringing neighbors together to share challenges and strategize around ensuring our students feel safe and supported both in and out of school. Thank you to People’s Congregational, MPD’s 4th District, Office of the Student Advocate, the DC Charter School Alliance, Parents Amplifying Voices in Education, and Ward 4 State Board of Education T. Michelle Colson for co-organizing. Whether in the classroom, on the bus, or in our neighborhoods, making sure students feel safe starts with centering students’ voices, and I’m grateful to everyone who attended and voiced their insights, challenges, and experiences.
Responding to ICE Activity in Ward 1
This week, I was deeply concerned to hear about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents being at Cooke HD Elementary School in Ward 1 and attempting to detain one of the school’s staff members. Luckily, staff at the school knew their rights and the agents, who were without a warrant, were turned away. Situations like these are deeply scary for school staff, students, and families, and I share the concerns of everybody who was impacted and am grateful for the preparedness and courage of the school staff who were present.
The District has always been a sanctuary city, and we are proud to uphold our values of inclusion, fair treatment, and dignity for all, no matter their immigration status. This incident is an important reminder for neighbors to know our rights, and for families to take extra precaution, whether being present at drop-off and pick-up times, or reading up on important resources to have on hand. As a reminder, you can find a list of immigration resources, compiled with the help of my Ward 1 colleague Brianne Nadeau, here.
Standing Up for Children and Early Childhood Educators
Over the weekend, I joined neighbors for a town hall at the Petworth Library organized by ANC 4C and Commissioner Emily Winternitz focused on protecting access to childcare and standing up for early childhood educators. Affordable childcare is a necessity for families’ wellbeing, children’s long-term success, and the future of the District, yet too often, it is treated as a luxury.
During the formulation of last year’s budget, we saw harmful cuts made to programs like the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund, and as we approach the FY26 budget, it is essential we speak out about the necessity of programs supporting our children, families, and childcare workforce. The drastic cuts we have already seen on the federal level to vital programs like Head Start are impacting families across the country, and at the same time, families particularly in the District are dealing with the impact of layoffs and continued economic uncertainty. These circumstances make it even harder for families to afford quality childcare, yet it is in times like these that good childcare becomes even more essential. As we wait for Congress to pass the DC Local Funds Act and as we approach the FY26 budget, I will fight to protect funding for essential programs like PKEEP and the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund which are so vital to the health and wellbeing of our children, our families, and our city.
Senior Bingo Next Thursday!
On Thursday, April 3rd from 11am to 2pm, join my office and DPR for an unforgettable day of excitement, games, prizes, DC resources, and the thrill of the win at Bingo games at Emery Heights Community Center! Get your daubers ready and mark your calendars for an evening filled with anticipation and fun! There are only a few spots left open, so make sure to register ASAP to join the fun!
Community Resources
Upshur Park Community Meeting Next Tuesday
On Tuesday, April 1st from 6 to 7:30pm, join the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the DC Department of General Services (DGS) for a community meeting to review the Design Development Plans for the upcoming Upshur Park modernization project, including concepts for the Splash Pad and Playground. The meeting will take place at the Petworth Library. RSVP here.
Chairman Mendelson’s Virtual Tax Town Hall and Other Tax Resources
Tax season is underway, and if you have questions about property tax assessments, the appeals process, or other DC tax questions, make sure to attend Chairman Mendelson’s Tax Town Hall on Saturday, March 29th from 10am to 12pm. Register to attend virtually here. And as a reminder, income-eligible seniors ($67,000 annual income or less) can still get help filing their taxes from AARP at the following locations:
- Petworth Library (4200 Kansas Ave, NW), Monday & Friday 11am – 4pm
- Appointment Required (202-656-1341)
- Turkey Thicket Rec (1100 Michigan Ave, NE), Monday & Wednesday, 10am – 2pm
- Appointment Required (202-643-9519)
- Woodridge Regional Library (1801 Hamlin St NE), Monday & Wednesday, 10am – 2pm
- Appointment Required (202-643-4279)
Arrests and Charges Made in Georgia Ave ATM Robbery
On Wednesday, 4th District MPD announced charges were made against two individuals for theft of an ATM from Hamilton Liquor on the 5200 block of Georgia Ave this week. I am grateful to MPD for their diligent work to apprehend the suspects. As a reminder, law enforcement and DC agencies offer several programs community members can take part in to help keep our communities safe and help MPD close cases. One example is the Camera Rebate Program, which reimburses residents, businesses, and churches for the cost of installing security cameras on their properties. Keeping our communities safe is a collaborative process, and I am immensely grateful to all of the members of our community who are working diligently to achieve this goal.
Share Feedback on Plans for Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway
On Wednesday, April 2nd, the National Parks Service is holding a virtual public scoping meeting for community members to learn about plans for the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway. I have concerns about some elements of NPS’s proposed plan, including a proposal to end one-way operations during rush hour. After the meeting on April 2nd, there will be a 30-day public comment period for neighbors to share comments until May 2nd. This is our opportunity to share feedback and ensure the final plan is one that works for our community, so make sure to attend virtually on Wednesday.
Volunteer with the Shepherd Park Citizens Association
The Shepherd Park Citizens Association (SPCA) is currently looking for new members and asking the community for help. Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet people, engage with neighbors, and help shape the Shepherd Park community. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Micah Salb at president@shepherdpark.org or at 202-288-2536.
Rock Creek C Project
At last week’s meeting of ANC 4D, DC Water delivered a presentation on the Rock Creek C Project, which is intended to reduce the volume of combined sewer overflowers to the District’s waterways and improve water quality. If you’d like to learn more about the project, view the presentation and factsheet provided by DC Water.
Ward 4 Students: Apply for Construction Trades Hub at Phelps HS!
DCPS is currently expanding opportunities for students to take courses in the construction trades, starting with a pilot program at Phelps ACE High School in Ward 5! Rising 11th grade students from other DCPS schools who are interested in enrolling in one of the trades programs will have the opportunity to do so at Phelps with up to 10 spots in each construction pathway available. Interested students should complete the interest form by May 1st.
Join the DC Health Parent Advisory Group
DC Health and Parents United for School Health are organizing a Parent Advisory Group on school health. The Advisory Group will meet quarterly (January, April, July, and October) and provide an opportunity for parents to discuss experiences, concerns, and insights on DC school health services directly with DC Health, the agency that administers the school health services programs in DC schools. The organizations are looking for two representatives from each ward to serve on the board for a renewable one-year term. Learn more and apply here!
Apply to Take Part in Takoma Pride
Calling All LGBTQ+ Organizations and Artists! Main Street Takoma is looking for local LGBTQ+ orgs and community groups to offer free booth space at the annual Takoma Pride event on Sunday, June 1st. Plus, they are looking for an artist to create a Pride Art Installation at the event. Find more info and application here.
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, particularly for Manor Park, Brightwood Park, 16th Street Heights, and Chevy Chase neighbors:
- On Saturday, March 29th, DC Water is scheduled to conduct roadway restoration work on the 300 and 400 blocks of Hamilton St NW and Kennedy St NW.
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform test pitting operations on the 5000 and 5100 blocks of 13th St NW.
- Next Tuesday, April 1st, DC Water is scheduled to perform sewer lining activities on the 400 block of Marieta Pl NW.
- Next Friday, April 4th, DC Water is scheduled to perform roadway restoration work on Kennedy St NW.
- As part of the ongoing Piney Branch Sewer Rehabilitation Project, DC Water is scheduled to perform daytime work at the following locations for the duration of next week: Illinois Ave from Hamilton Ave NW to Gallatin St NW, Longfellow St from 2nd Pl NW to 3rd Pl NW, Nicholson St NW and 5th St NW.
- As part of the ongoing Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project in Chevy Chase, DC Water is scheduled to conduct sewer cleaning activities at the following locations for the duration of next week: 3700 block of Livingston St NW, 3300 block of Military Rd NW, 3700 – 3900 blocks of Military Rd NW, 4100 block of Military Rd NW, 3500 block of Northampton St NW, 3600 – 3700 blocks of McKinley St NW.
Neighborhood Events
Chevy Chase Civic Core Community Meeting
On Saturday, March 29th, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) is hosting an all-day hybrid event at the Chevy Chase Community Center to share plans on the long-awaited Civic Core redevelopment project, which will encompass the current Community Center, Library, park, and outdoor recreation facilities between McKinley and Northampton Streets on Connecticut Avenue. The future of the Chevy Chase Civic Core will be decided at this event, and your input and advocacy are critical. You can share your views with DMPED ahead of time by contacting Daniel Lyons at 202-445-9765 or emailing daniel.lyons@dcc.gov. Learn more and register here for virtual attendance. Join and make your voices heard!
DPR-MPD Late Night Hype
Late Night Hype is back! Tonight, Friday, March 28th from 6 to 10pm, join DPR and MPD for one of DPR’s best community activations for the first Late Night Hype of 2025. The event will be a carnival-style community party at the Emery Heights Community Center (5701 Georgia Ave NW). RSVP here!
Community Resilience Collective Neighborhood Skills Share
On Saturday, March 29th at 3pm, the Community Resilience Collective is hosting an event at Rhizome DC for neighbors to learn and share skills to navigate and thrive in today’s political environment. Simply fill out this form to offer your skills or request an opportunity to learn new skills. Areas include navigating government systems, protecting public health, housing security, financial resilience, and more. Learn more about the event here. Thanks to Takoma neighbor Erin Palmer for organizing!
Free DC Kickoff Event for Ward 4
On Sunday, March 30th from 1 to 3pm, Free DC is holding its Ward 4 Community Kickoff. For those who aren’t familiar, Free DC is a movement led by the people of the District to win dignity for our communities and exert our right to self-determination. The kickoff event will have activities, music, a chance to learn about the campaign, and time to be together. Members of Free DC who live in Ward 4 will be there to welcome you, help you connect with neighbors, and have a great time! RSVP to attend here.
Zenith Gallery 47th Anniversary
Zenith Gallery in Shepherd Park is celebrating its 47th anniversary with a new exhibition and an artist talk tomorrow, March 29th at 2pm. You can read more about the upcoming show and Zenith Gallery’s history in Ward 4 on its website here, plus find details about more upcoming artist talks. Congratulations to Zenith Gallery and founder Margery Goldberg on this incredible achievement!
DOEE Urban Sustainability Discussion
On Thursday, April 3rd from 12 to 3pm, join the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) as they provide information on programs and services that protect human health. DOEE will be discussing urban sustainability and the connections between an individual’s personal actions and the health of their surroundings. The event will take place at the Shepherd Park Library (7420 Georgia Ave NW).
SSNA Spring Fling and Egg Hunt
In preparation for its Spring Fling and Egg Hunt event, the 16th Street Heights Neighborhood Association is asking for support from neighbors with preparation activities. On Saturday, March 29th at 4pm, help stuff eggs with treats at 1408 Buchanan Street. Then on Saturday, April 5th at 10am, join SSNA and neighbors for coffee and breakfast treats as kids hunt for eggs in the Piney Spring Green located between Varnum St and Webster St.
MacFarland MS Spring Art Showcase
On Wednesday, April 9th from 5:30 to 8pm, MacFarland Middle School invites you to its annual Spring Arts Showcase at the MacFarland Auditorium, 4400 Iowa Ave NW. This year’s theme, Harmony in Bloom, celebrates the power of music to bring us together. Enjoy an evening of incredible performances featuring the world-class Mustang Drumline, Concert Band, Jazz Combo, 6th Grade Singers, and many more talented student musicians. Don’t miss the special event showcasing the creativity and dedication of MacFarland’s young artists!
Arts and Crafts on Upshur
On Saturday, April 12th from 12pm to 2pm, Petworth Main Street is hosting Arts and Crafts on Upshur, a free, family-friendly event for neighbors to drop by and make beautiful arts and crafts creations! Activities for all ages include making and decorating lanterns, canvas painting, flower coloring and painting, and more. Plus, enjoy specials from local restaurants and shops while you explore the neighborhood. No RSVP needed!
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: Pedestrian Safety Near LaSalle-Backus Elementary School
Petworth News: Take a Spring Break “staycation” at Lincoln’s Cottage! (Cottage Corner)
The 51st: How to access D.C.’s paid family leave benefits
Ward 4 Dispatch: Fighting to Restore DC’s Budget, Ward 4 Student Safety, and Shape DC’s Comprehensive Plan!
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.
On Wednesday, WMATA held an open house for neighbors to see and vote on plans for the layout of the Northern Bus Garage’s Community Room, which is currently under development on 14th Street. I’m excited to see a new space come to fruition for community members to gather and hold events, honoring the vibrant history of our Ward 4 community.
With the weather warming up and cherry blossoms in full bloom, make sure to get out and enjoy the beautiful spring colors and find one of the cherry blossom trees in your neighborhood!
Wishing you a great weekend, neighbors!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
