This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Despite a stormy weekend, the weather has been beautiful so far this week. I hope you’ve been able to get outside and enjoy some of the cooler temperatures we’ve had over the last few days!
My newsletter this week includes more resources for families to get ready for the start of the school year, traffic safety improvements announced this week, and our ongoing neighborhood pop-ups. There are also some important events coming up in the community, including a community conversation with DPW and a meeting with DPR for neighbors to hear about progress being made on Ward 4 capital projects. I also discuss issues with DC’s 911 operations, and what I’ve been doing to help address these problems.
Community News
Improving DC’s Emergency Operations
Over the last several days, I’ve been extremely concerned to hear about worsening delays and staffing issues at the DC Office of Unified Communications, which manages our 911 dispatch system. When issues happen in our neighborhoods, we need OUC to be fully staffed and ready to respond. Any delays are unacceptable and must be addressed.
This problem is not new. I have heard many concerns from Ward 4 constituents about dropped calls, slow response times, and other issues with DC’s 911 call center. Whenever a constituent reaches out, I report the concern directly to OUC and request a report from the Director on what happened. In addition to raising these concerns in oversight hearings, I’ve used findings to work with my colleagues on the Council to move legislation that would address some of the underlying problems. Here are some of these bills we must continue to push forward and build on:
- Increasing staffing at OUC. In December, I joined Councilmember Henderson to introduce the Retired Firefighter and Police Officer Redeployment Emergency Amendment Act. This bill would remove barriers to MPD officers and firefighters taking jobs as 911 call-takers, allowing more experienced first responders to support our 911 dispatch system. Additionally, the FY25 budget included $1 million to hire additional 911 call takers and dispatchers. We must continue to invest in making sure OUC has the staffing they need to respond to 911 calls.
- Improving transparency in OUC’s operations. Earlier this year, I worked with Councilmember Robert White to move legislation instituting more stringent data collection and reporting requirements for OUC, which was ultimately included in Secure DC. You can view the latest data on OUC’s 911 performance dashboard here.
- Better directing 911 calls. In December, I co-introduced the Reliable and Effective 911 Dispatch Amendment Act with Councilmember Nadeau. This bill would direct calls for fire and emergency medical services to a dedicated triage line within Fire and Emergency Medical Services to ensure the most accurate and effective response possible.
- Ensuring OUC facilities are fully operable. As Chair of the Committee on Facilities and Family Services, I was recently made aware of facilities issues having to do with electrical issues at OUC. In response to this, I have requested DGS to provide our committee with all open work orders at the building for the last 90 days to escalate pressing facilities issues. I’ve also requested a hearing with the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety and the Committee on Public Works and Operations so that software issues at OUC and OCTO can all be addressed.
This problem also extends beyond our 911 response. In addition to 911, OUC also operates our 211 warmline, which helps children and families access social services. As we continue to grow the warmline program and provide families with greater access to support services, our response must be fast, reliable, and accurate.
During the upcoming legislative period, I hope to see the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety schedule an oversight roundtable to coordinate a comprehensive response to these recurring issues. Responding to emergencies is the most fundamental responsibility of our government, and I’m committed to working with OUC and within the Council to make sure this standard is being met.
Preparing for the Start of the School Year
The start of the school year is just around the corner, with DCPS students starting classes on August 26th. Now is a good time for families to make sure they have what they need for their students to begin classes. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Get stocked up on school supplies. There are several neighborhood back-to-school drives happening in the coming weeks, including one on Saturday from 11am to 1pm, which I’m partnering with the Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association to host. Check out last week’s newsletter for more opportunities for families to get free backpacks and school supplies.
- Get up to date with immunizations. DC Public Schools requires students to receive certain immunizations before attending classes. Make sure your student is up to date with their latest immunizations by visiting DC’s Back to School Resources page here.
- Arrange transportation. Families can take advantage of WMATA’s Kids Ride Free program, which lets kids use public transportation free of charge when riding in the District. You can find more information on this great program here.
- Explore after-school programs. DC schools offer a range of after school and out-of-school-time programs that help students learn and grow outside the classroom. You can learn more about DCPS’s programs and how to register here.
- Check out the newly released Back-to-School Guide for more tips and resources!
Traffic Safety Updates
On Monday, I was grateful to see DDOT issue a notice of intent to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Quincy St, 8th St, and New Hampshire Ave in Petworth. This is an incredibly busy stretch of road for drivers and bikers, and a frequently used pedestrian crossing. Adding a traffic signal is a much-needed step that will help reduce reckless driving and crashes and improve safety for all travelers.
I’m grateful to everyone who advocated for this change, including ANC 4C Commissioner Heller and Petworth neighbors. My team and I continue to work closely with our amazing Ward 4 commissioners, community leaders, and neighbors to make more traffic safety improvements to our streets and intersections. As we push towards safer streets in all areas of our community, I encourage everyone to share traffic safety input via this online form to highlight improvements that need to be made in our neighborhoods.
DCPS Facilities Tours
As we approach the start of the school year, I’m focused on ensuring our DCPS facilities are in the best possible shape for the first day of classes. Throughout July and August, my team and I have been visiting schools around the District, including many in Ward 4, and reporting our findings to DGS and DCPS to highlight issues that still need addressing and processes that need to be improved.
With many teachers returning to schools next week, I encourage you to refer to our school readiness checklist, which lays out standards that need to be met including proper security, plumbing, and ADA compliance. If you are an educator or school staff member and are seeing facilities issues that must be escalated, please reach out to us at facilities@dccouncil.gov.
In The Ward 4 You Pop-Ups
Our In The Ward 4 You neighborhood pop-ups are in full swing! On Tuesday, I joined Commissioner Brooks and agencies on the 100 block of Kennedy Street, and this afternoon, set up in Brightwood to meet with neighbors on Georgia Ave and Rittenhouse St. Thank you to all the neighbors, commissioners, and agencies who have joined so far!
We’ve still got three more events to go, with our next stop being The Parks at Walter Reed next Thursday. Check out the full schedule here and come join to tell us what issues are top of mind for you and your neighbors.
DPW Community Conversation
On Wednesday, August 21st from 6:30 to 8pm, DPW is hosting their quarterly virtual community conversation. Whether you have questions about parking enforcement, trash pickup, street cleaning, or any other DPW services, Wednesday’s meeting is an excellent opportunity to have your questions answered by DPW leadership. Register to attend here.
Ward 4 Capital Project Updates
As we speak, there are several exciting Ward 4 projects in the works, including a modernization for the Upshur Rec Center, a renovation of the Emery Rec Center, and new community pool at The Parks at Walter Reed.
Next Monday at 6:30pm, DPR will host a community meeting on ongoing capital projects in Wards 3 and 4, including many of the projects that were funded in the DC budget and are currently in progress. Next Monday’s meeting will be an excellent opportunity to hear the latest on these projects and ask DPR any questions about their ongoing work. Click here to RSVP and join!
Community Resources
DPW Smart Bin Meeting
DPW is conducting virtual Community Engagement meetings in all 8 Wards to Seek Community Input for the installation of 24/7 Food Waste Drop-Off Bins. Ward 4’s virtual meeting will be on Thursday, August 15th from 6:30 to 7:30pm. Register for the meeting here.
DPR Fall Program Registration
Registration opened this week for DPR’s fall programs, with dozens of programs running over the next few months. To view the full list of programs and subscribe, click here.
LRCA Back-to-School Drive
On Saturday, August 17th from 11am to 1pm, I’m joining the Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association to host a backpack giveaway at the Riggs-LaSalle Rec Center. We’ll be giving out supplies for students and helping families prepare for the start of the school year. Hope to see you there!
Back to School Drive at Fort Totten Metro
On Saturday, August 17th from 11am to 3pm, Metro Transit Police is hosting a back-to-school supply giveaway at the Fort Totten Metro parking lot. In addition to free school supplies, the event will feature a DJ, petting zoo, free haircuts, and moon bounce, plus free food and drinks.
Metro Lift and Senior SmarTrip Discount Fare Card Registration
Metro and DC Public Library are joining to offer Metro Lift and Senior SmarTrip card registration at the Lamond-Riggs Library from August 12th to 16th, and at the Petworth Library from August 19th to 23rd. Eligible residents will be able to save 50% on bus and rail fares. For more details on how to sign up, see the flyer below.
Emery Heights Backpack Giveaway
On Saturday, August 24th from 12 to 4pm, DPR is hosting a backpack giveaway at the Emery Heights Community Center. Learn more and RSVP here.
Emory Beacon of Light Food and Supply Distribution
On Saturday, August 24th from 9am to 12pm, Emory Beacon of Light Inc is hosting a food and supply distribution, with free food, hygiene products and essential household and school supplies. The event will take place at 6100 Georgia Ave NW.
Non-Citizen Voting Know Your Rights Information Session
On Tuesday, August 27th from 3 to 7pm, Legal Aid DC is hosting an information session on non-citizen voting at the Mt. Pleasant Library. The session will help non-citizen DC residents get familiar with the voting process and address questions and concerns. Learn more here.
Neighborhood Events
Summer in the Park at Fort Slocum
Every Thursday evening in August from 6 to 8pm, Rock Creek Park and Rock Creek Conservancy are hosting free, family-friendly events at Fort Slocum. Join for music from DJ Lance Reynolds and fun-for-all-ages games and activities. Learn more and register here.
Screen on the Green
On Thursday, August 15th at 8pm, there will be a movie night under the stars at Capital City Public Charter School. Grab your friends, family, and blankets for free popcorn and a showing of “Elemental.” Don’t forget to arrive early to snag the best spot on the lawn. Thanks to ANC 4B06 Commissioner Tiffani Nichole Johnson for organizing this great event!
Jazz on Kennedy Street
Home Rule Records is hosting their next monthly live jazz performance on Wednesday, August 21st, with sponsorship from Uptown Main Street, DSLBD, Realtor Eddie Suarez, and others. The event will take place on the 700 block of Kennedy Street NW with live jazz from Allen Jones.
Back to School Movie Night and Foam Party
On Friday, August 23rd, Uptown Main Street is organizing a back-to-school movie night and foam party for the community! The event will take place on the 700 block of Kennedy Street starting at 5:30pm, with fun family activities happening all night.
Petworth Community Clean-Up
On Saturday, August 24th from 9am to 3pm, Petworth Action Committee, ANC Commissioner Antoine Kirby, SWEEP, and other community organizations are joining to host a community clean-up in Petworth. The event will start at 3900 Kansas Ave NW and move throughout the neighborhood. All neighbors are encouraged to join!
Zion Hill Baptist Church and Petworth Rec Center Community Day
On Saturday, August 24th, Zion Hill Baptist Church and Petworth Rec Center are joining to host a community day at Petworth Playground from 10am to 2pm. The event will feature a school supply giveaway, prevention and health services, music, food, and activities, including moon bounce and a splash park.
Important Reminders
Office Hours in the Community
Every Wednesday afternoon, our Ward 4 constituent services team holds office hours at Fort Stevens Rec Center from 12 to 1pm, followed by office hours atHattie 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.
For more local events, check out DPR, DC Public Library, and NPS.
Ward 4 in the News
Petworth News: DDOT looking to put a traffic light at 8th, Quincy, New Hampshire Ave intersection
Next Stop…Riggs Park: August 15: Jazz in the Park at Riggs-LaSalle Rec
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Riggs Road & South Dakota Avenue Park Update
Ward 4 Dispatch: Back to School Drives, Storm Reminders and Tips, and Kennedy Street Pop-Up
On Friday, I joined neighbors for a backpack giveaway in Riggs Park. Thanks to Commissioner Alison Brooks, The Parks Main Street, Symone Brooks, Mr. Yoo from Riggs Liquor, and all our local sponsors for helping to get our students ready for the school year.
Lastly, this week is DC Restaurant Week, so make sure to get out to dine or get takeout from one of our spectacular Ward 4 businesses!
Wishing you a cool weekend, neighbors!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
