Posts by David Whitehead — Former Housing Program Organizer
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Reactions from last night’s epic, historic, really godd*mn long DC Comp Plan hearing
Early this morning (3:41 am to be exact) the gavel banged on what proved to be a DC Council hearing of historic proportions. More than 275 witness were signed up to testify about amending the DC Comprehensive Plan, the second-most witnesses ever in the history of DC Council hearings. Keep reading…
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Friday is the last day to sign up. Will you help shape the Comp Plan?
We could have a better Comp Plan that embraces the changes needed to house a growing population, but also takes steps to ensure we have enough affordable housing and protections against displacement. Help us push for that kind of Comp Plan on March 20. Keep reading…
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Have you signed up to influence the future of DC on March 20?
This hearing is a big deal, as you can tell by the overwhelming numbers of residents who have already signed up to testify. Let’s make sure voices for equitable urbanism are heard as well. The last day to sign up is March 16 — don’t miss this one! Keep reading…
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Whoever shows up March 20 will affect the future of DC
We don’t often ask GGWash readers from DC to come out to DC Council hearings, but we are now. We need you to advocate for more affordable housing and protections from displacement in the city's Comprehensive Plan. Keep reading…
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Why the Office of Planning likes PUDs (and why you should too)
Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) are a particular development process in DC where an applicant can receive zoning flexibility and relief in exchange for a set of community benefits negotiated with the city and the neighborhood. PUDs have helped create affordable homes in the city. Keep reading…
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“Who is steering the ship?” The DC Council debates planning and zoning for six hours
Last week’s hearing was dominated by the Office of Planning’s recently-released amendments to the Framework Element of the Comprehensive Plan, which lays out the direction for development in the city for years to come. Keep reading…
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DC, Maryland, and Virginia shouldn’t compete over a new football stadium
Our region needs more regional cooperation, and competing with each other in a race to the bottom to attract the new football stadium is exactly the wrong direction to go. Tell your legislators today to support this pact! Keep reading…
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Changes to DC’s Comprehensive Plan could mean more “missing middle” housing for the city
So far, the Office of Planning's Comprehensive Plan amendments solely focus on the introduction. Still, those changes indicate that OP recognizes that DC needs new homes everywhere, not just in “vacant” areas. Keep reading…
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The first 60 pages of amendments to DC’s Comp Plan are out. Here’s a first look.
The Comp Plan describes the planning challenges DC faces, pointing forward towards future solutions and policies and guiding the actions and decisions of district agencies. Here's what you should know about the first set of amendments. Keep reading…
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Success! A new faster bus on 14th Street has taken its maiden voyage in DC
Whether you signed the petition, testified at a hearing, or simply have swiped your card on the new 59, thank you for your support and your work. Keep reading…