Press Releases

The Task Force is currently working through a series of subcommittee meetings, workshops, field trips and stakeholder engagement sessions designed to provide enough background to formulate the best recommendations on projects funded through BIL formula funding and competitive grants. One of those projects, the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, is top of mind for Mayor Bowser, Deputy Mayor Babers, Director Lott and members of the Transportation Innovation subcommittee. On May 18, Mayor Bowser led a community walk to highlight the importance of reconnecting communities once divided by highways.

Final redistricting map approved by the Council.

I am especially interested in learning about the projects the Task Force recommends for prioritization, especially those that can be funded via competitive grants. As you both know, I would like to see DC compete for part of the $1 billion Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program aimed at restoring community connectivity to neighborhoods divided by highways. As I mentioned in my letter to the Mayor regarding the FY23 budget, this is a great opportunity to explore re-envisioning DC-295 and its relationship to the communities of River Terrace, Parkside, Mayfair, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Deanwood and Benning. The pilot program would give us an historic opportunity to knit communities back together after 70 years of division, and it would improve access to school, jobs, public transportation, and retail while also reducing air and noise pollution for residents in Wards 7 and 8.

We are writing today as a follow up to those hearings to learn more about the progress that DGS at various facilities thus far in FY2022. Specifically, we are interested in more information regarding the following projects:

It is my understanding that DCPS was eligible to receive an additional funding from the FCC in the Fund’s final allocation wave for remote learning in School Year 22-23. However, I recently learned that OCTO seemingly declined to apply for the final wave of available federal funding. Considering that the need for virtual learning resources may continue to arise, and our students need access to technology even as the pandemic becomes endemic, I request a response to the following questions:

“Throughout this year’s budget process, I have focused on our working families. Investments we voted on today support our most vulnerable communities and will take steps in ensuring every District resident has an opportunity for success no matter your zip code,” said Councilmember Henderson. “After a year of legislating through response and recovery, I deeply understand the potential our budget decisions carry for the 700,000 residents of the District of Columbia, our local businesses, and our visitors. When we invest in advancing the health of our families, supports for our students, and good government, we directly support a strong economic recovery for our residents and workers.”