Following the news, tests scores, and chancellor situation one can become pretty devastated about the current state and future of the DC school system. In a city filled with educated people it is appalling that there is still such a disparity between wealth and education. Often I am discouraged because I am not sure what I can do, so I am happy to report that there is a call to action. The organization called Reading Partners is now operating in DC and is in need of volunteers. If you can give 45 minutes of your time a week than you can make a huge difference in the education of one DC student.
Reading Partners is currently working at four DC locations with volunteering opportunities between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Please visit their website and sign up to volunteer. I have already signed up to volunteer at DC Prep in Edgewood and I am looking forward to helping my community. They provide training, support and lesson plans. Rarely is one able to impact another's life in such a great way and I hope that many others decide to participate. Imagine if all DC students read at or above their grade level and the impact that would have on their education and future.
Please view the following story on Reading Partners in the news.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Homes Sales in Edgewood
Here is the weekly data on homes for sale in Edgewood. I am using Redfin because it allows you to search by neighborhood, but if you have any other ideas or ways to get listings or open houses please let me know!
Here is the link to the data in Redfin:
Edgewood DC Real Estate
Edgewood has a very diverse housing stock with a wide range of sizes and prices. Right now the most expensive places listed are the new homes being built in Chancellor's Row listed at $559,900 while the least expensive listing is a 1 bedroom condo listed at $59,900. There is exactly a half-million dollar spread in the sale prices across the Edgewood neighborhood. I know that there are many discussions across DC with regards to creating more affordable housing, but I wonder if anyone is looking at the housing stock that is currently available. There are options for every family size and budget in Edgewood right now and I am not sure if they will last as our neighborhood continues to develop. Over the last few months I have noticed that home sales seem to be picking up, so I hope those looking in nearby neighborhoods start thinking about investing in Edgewood.
There are many new sales posted:
116 V Street NE sold on October 12th for $382,000
318 Rhode Island Ave NE #304 sold on October 18th for $75,000
2405 3rd Street NE sold on October 19th for $296,000
2815 6th Street NE sold on October 22nd for $245,000
416 Evarts Street NE sold on October 26th for $360,000
There is one open house listed for Edgewood at 106 V Street NE and it is open from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 31st. If you know of any more please add the information to the comments section.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
NCJC to Picket Bozzuto, Metro Project on RI Ave. in NE
NCJC to Picket Bozzuto, Metro Project on RI Ave. in NE
Washington, DC, October 26, 2010: The National Capital Jobs Coalition (NCJC) will launch a public job action against the Bozzuto Construction Company and the METRO development project on Rhode Island Ave. Metro Station in NE Washington, DC on Thursday morning, October 28th at 8:30 AM. Linwood Martinez-Bentley, a longtime DC activist and co-director of the group, said that, “… Bozzuto and others like them have ignored DC Law long enough. Mayor Fenty has failed to enforce this law. We urge Vincent Gray to make this a high priority.”
First Source Legislation requires outside businesses that come into this city and take city dollars must hire 51% of their workforce from citizens of The District. “In this economy, with record deficits, we cannot afford to let hundreds of thousands of dollars in potential revenue to our city simply drive out the beltway,” said Bentley. “We need our tax dollars to create jobs for our citizens. First Source is a partial remedy that must be enforced and reinforced.” Also, Bentley continued, “ …many companies are not paying the required wages. This is also against the law. The City is not enforcing this law and since these projects are being funded, in part by our tax dollars, we, the citizens of DC, want to know if these multi-million dollar job sites are in compliance.”
The presumptive new Mayor Vincent Gray commented during a recent Town Hall meeting that, if city funded projects do not hire the number of city residents required by First Source legislation that they, “… should be shut down.” NCJC agrees totally with those sentiments, as do key members of The City Council. We have had expressions of support from other Councilmen including the following sitting council members: CM Michael Brown and the presumptive Council Chairperson Kwame Brown. We also have support from At-Large Candidate David Schwartzman. Given such widespread encouragement, NCJC intends to strike the first blow in support of more aggressive and direct citizen involvement.
Jerome Peloquin, First Source Program Manager for NCJC commented that, “This is just the beginning. We plan to launch these job actions on a regular basis and to ratchet up the level of visibility. This will be a non-violent protest, but it will not be a quiet one. Our intention is to link with other community activist organizations including a number of drum circles that will participate on behalf of the people of DC who are suffering record unemployment. Carpetbagging companies from outside-of-DC need to take notice … the free lunch is over. It’s time to pay your fair share of the bill here in Washington, DC.”
For further information contact Jerry Peloquin on his cell at 410.227.0498 or by email at jpeloquin@microventuresupport.org
Washington, DC, October 26, 2010: The National Capital Jobs Coalition (NCJC) will launch a public job action against the Bozzuto Construction Company and the METRO development project on Rhode Island Ave. Metro Station in NE Washington, DC on Thursday morning, October 28th at 8:30 AM. Linwood Martinez-Bentley, a longtime DC activist and co-director of the group, said that, “… Bozzuto and others like them have ignored DC Law long enough. Mayor Fenty has failed to enforce this law. We urge Vincent Gray to make this a high priority.”
First Source Legislation requires outside businesses that come into this city and take city dollars must hire 51% of their workforce from citizens of The District. “In this economy, with record deficits, we cannot afford to let hundreds of thousands of dollars in potential revenue to our city simply drive out the beltway,” said Bentley. “We need our tax dollars to create jobs for our citizens. First Source is a partial remedy that must be enforced and reinforced.” Also, Bentley continued, “ …many companies are not paying the required wages. This is also against the law. The City is not enforcing this law and since these projects are being funded, in part by our tax dollars, we, the citizens of DC, want to know if these multi-million dollar job sites are in compliance.”
The presumptive new Mayor Vincent Gray commented during a recent Town Hall meeting that, if city funded projects do not hire the number of city residents required by First Source legislation that they, “… should be shut down.” NCJC agrees totally with those sentiments, as do key members of The City Council. We have had expressions of support from other Councilmen including the following sitting council members: CM Michael Brown and the presumptive Council Chairperson Kwame Brown. We also have support from At-Large Candidate David Schwartzman. Given such widespread encouragement, NCJC intends to strike the first blow in support of more aggressive and direct citizen involvement.
Jerome Peloquin, First Source Program Manager for NCJC commented that, “This is just the beginning. We plan to launch these job actions on a regular basis and to ratchet up the level of visibility. This will be a non-violent protest, but it will not be a quiet one. Our intention is to link with other community activist organizations including a number of drum circles that will participate on behalf of the people of DC who are suffering record unemployment. Carpetbagging companies from outside-of-DC need to take notice … the free lunch is over. It’s time to pay your fair share of the bill here in Washington, DC.”
For further information contact Jerry Peloquin on his cell at 410.227.0498 or by email at jpeloquin@microventuresupport.org
McMillan Meeting #2: What We Heard-- Design Principles & Approach
Dear Edgewood Residents,
Attached is the flyer for our next meeting on the McMillan Sand Filtration Site.
WHAT: McMillan Meeting #2: What We Heard-- Design Principles & Approach
WHERE: St. Martin's of Tours Catholic Church 1908 North Capitol Street, NW (Enter on T Street)
WHEN: Saturday, November 6, 2010 9AM - 12PM
Join us for a discussion of the elements that will go into the final design plan, based on the feedback the design team got in Meeting #1 and the Salon Sessions at Big Bear. This is Meeting #2 of a three meeting series and will give you a chance to meet and talk to the design team, get a schedule for future meetings, and learn how to share all of your ideas.
If you have questions, please feel free to call me (202-355-8998) or email me (create_communitas@yahoo.com). Please also bring a friend!
Thanks,
Tania Jackson
Edgewood ANC Commissioner Elections and Speeches
Edgewood ANC Commissioner Elections are fast approaching and at the Edgewood Civic Association meeting on Monday they were invited to come and give a speech on why they are running. While there are really only two ANC5C commissioner Single Member Districts (SMD) that are entirely in Edgewood there are three others that have at least a part of their SMD in Edgewood. Only a small number of those running were able to make the meeting and I am not sure if that was due to prior commitments or last minute notifications. I thought I should still share the speeches that I was able to record by those in attendance.
Here are the SMDs that involve Edgewood and the candidates:
ANC5C06
Current Commissioner Mary-Ellen Farmer-Allen (not in attendance, husband made speech)
Challenger Darin Allen
ANC5C07
Current Commissioner Barry Daneker (not in attendance)
Challenger James Fournier
ANC5C08
Current Commissioner Marshal Phillips (withdrew from election)
Challenger J. Jioni Palmer
ANC5C09
Current Commissioner Silas Grant (running unopposed and emailed to say he was unable to attend due to prior commitments)
ANC5C10
Current Commissioner Tim Day (running for Ward 5 city council and no one is formally running for this seat)
Here are the SMDs that involve Edgewood and the candidates:
ANC5C06
Current Commissioner Mary-Ellen Farmer-Allen (not in attendance, husband made speech)
Challenger Darin Allen
ANC5C07
Current Commissioner Barry Daneker (not in attendance)
Challenger James Fournier
ANC5C08
Current Commissioner Marshal Phillips (withdrew from election)
Challenger J. Jioni Palmer
ANC5C09
Current Commissioner Silas Grant (running unopposed and emailed to say he was unable to attend due to prior commitments)
ANC5C10
Current Commissioner Tim Day (running for Ward 5 city council and no one is formally running for this seat)
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
District Hosts Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
10/26/10 -- District Hosts Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
Week-long Activities Focus on Protecting Child and Family Health
Lead exposure can cause serious health effects, particularly among children and pregnant women. To raise awareness of lead and its impact, the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) is spearheading a series of programs, beginning today, Tuesday, October 26, for National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW), October 24–30, 2010. The week’s programs are designed to educate District residents on ways to identify and safeguard themselves, especially children, against household lead exposures.
This year’s theme is Lead-Free Kids for a Healthy Future. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that nearly 250,000 children living in the United States have blood lead levels high enough to require public health intervention, based on data from a 2003–2004 national survey. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause a variety of health affects in children, such as learning disabilities, delayed speech and language, and behavioral problems.
“Lead poisoning is preventable and that is why raising awareness is perhaps the single most important step we can take to combat this environmental hazard,” says Christophe A.G. Tulou, Acting Director of DDOE. “The activities we have planned during this lead prevention awareness week will provide District residents with resources necessary to help them better understand the ramifications of lead poisoning and ways in which they can protect themselves and their families.”
Major sources of lead exposure among children are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust found in deteriorating buildings, especially in homes built before 1978. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, lead paint poisoning has already impacted more than one million children . Parents are encouraged to get their homes tested and have young children tested for lead poisoning. A community fair at the Reeves Center will offer free screening to District residents, specifically children, 6 months to 6 years old, as well as expectant mothers.
The DC Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water), one of the organizations participating in the District’s week-long lead prevention awareness activities, will be on hand to share information about sources of lead exposure among residents. According to DC Water, lead levels in District drinking water are below regulatory requirements. “Lead in drinking water is an issue that affects individual households in the District,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “We share the responsibility with residents in identifying lead sources and minimizing exposure.”
Planned activities throughout the week will not only target children, but also building contractors. According to Director Tulou, building contractors are strongly encouraged to attend all activities, particularly an EPA Region III forum that will review EPA’s Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule. In April 2010, the EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule to reduce contamination associated with the removal of lead-based paint chips and dust generated when homes are remodeled became effective. The rule requires training and certification of all remodeling contractors to engage in safe lead paint handling procedures.
The District’s lead poisoning prevention awareness activities include:
October 26, 2010 - 6:30 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.
Renovate Right for Landlords, Home Owners, and Contractors
1800 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE
October 27, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Community Outreach and Education Event
Petworth Metro Center - 3700 Georgia Avenue, NW
October 28, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Community Outreach and Education Event
Home Depot – 901 Rhode Island Avenue, NE
October 29 – 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Hot Spot Street Fair
14th & Irving Street, NW
October 30, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Community Health Fair*
The Reeves Center – 14th & U Street, NW
*Lead screening available on-site.
Contact Information:
Sarah Neiderer
202-787-7013
sarah.neiderer@dcwater.com
You can view this News Release at http://www.dcwater.com/news/listings/press_release478.cfm
Thank you.
Week-long Activities Focus on Protecting Child and Family Health
Lead exposure can cause serious health effects, particularly among children and pregnant women. To raise awareness of lead and its impact, the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) is spearheading a series of programs, beginning today, Tuesday, October 26, for National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW), October 24–30, 2010. The week’s programs are designed to educate District residents on ways to identify and safeguard themselves, especially children, against household lead exposures.
This year’s theme is Lead-Free Kids for a Healthy Future. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that nearly 250,000 children living in the United States have blood lead levels high enough to require public health intervention, based on data from a 2003–2004 national survey. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause a variety of health affects in children, such as learning disabilities, delayed speech and language, and behavioral problems.
“Lead poisoning is preventable and that is why raising awareness is perhaps the single most important step we can take to combat this environmental hazard,” says Christophe A.G. Tulou, Acting Director of DDOE. “The activities we have planned during this lead prevention awareness week will provide District residents with resources necessary to help them better understand the ramifications of lead poisoning and ways in which they can protect themselves and their families.”
Major sources of lead exposure among children are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust found in deteriorating buildings, especially in homes built before 1978. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, lead paint poisoning has already impacted more than one million children . Parents are encouraged to get their homes tested and have young children tested for lead poisoning. A community fair at the Reeves Center will offer free screening to District residents, specifically children, 6 months to 6 years old, as well as expectant mothers.
The DC Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water), one of the organizations participating in the District’s week-long lead prevention awareness activities, will be on hand to share information about sources of lead exposure among residents. According to DC Water, lead levels in District drinking water are below regulatory requirements. “Lead in drinking water is an issue that affects individual households in the District,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “We share the responsibility with residents in identifying lead sources and minimizing exposure.”
Planned activities throughout the week will not only target children, but also building contractors. According to Director Tulou, building contractors are strongly encouraged to attend all activities, particularly an EPA Region III forum that will review EPA’s Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule. In April 2010, the EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule to reduce contamination associated with the removal of lead-based paint chips and dust generated when homes are remodeled became effective. The rule requires training and certification of all remodeling contractors to engage in safe lead paint handling procedures.
The District’s lead poisoning prevention awareness activities include:
October 26, 2010 - 6:30 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.
Renovate Right for Landlords, Home Owners, and Contractors
1800 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE
October 27, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Community Outreach and Education Event
Petworth Metro Center - 3700 Georgia Avenue, NW
October 28, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Community Outreach and Education Event
Home Depot – 901 Rhode Island Avenue, NE
October 29 – 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Hot Spot Street Fair
14th & Irving Street, NW
October 30, 2010 – 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Community Health Fair*
The Reeves Center – 14th & U Street, NW
*Lead screening available on-site.
Contact Information:
Sarah Neiderer
202-787-7013
sarah.neiderer@dcwater.com
You can view this News Release at http://www.dcwater.com/news/listings/press_release478.cfm
Thank you.
Eckington Resident, Jamie Triplin-Hines: Are we really building bridges?
October 26, 2010
Dear Community Leaders and Civic Engagers,
Are we really building bridges? When me and my family moved to the Eckington/Edgewood area last year, I was directed to my civic association, list servs, ANC 5C, and other entities. It is very disheartening to see and hear how there are so many people who “want to change their community,” yet, they fight (even physically) amongst each other.
I find it difficult to see true community efforts—efforts that don’t have one individual person’s or group’s political agenda attached to it. Bigotry, intimidation tactics, cronyism, corruption, lack of professionalism, and so many other issues steal the livelihood and enrichment that ALL of our neighborhoods offer. It really is a shame that we do not utilize all of our individual resources/skills to come together on behalf of the common good.
We all claim we are tired of the “petty politics” at the highest level of district government, but it seems to have trickled down to even the lowest level of public service in our ward. There are some of us out here that truly want to be a part of their communities and make that real change without all of the politics.
I truly hope that with the new year rapidly approaching, we can learn to put aside the pettiness and make better use of our time. I, for one, plan to become more deeply involved with my community—even if I have to begin building these bridges by myself.
I am looking to work with likeminded individuals. Feel free to contact me at anytime.
Kind Regards,
Jamie Triplin-Hines, MPA
www.thinkwritedevelop.com
202-681-2278
Dear Community Leaders and Civic Engagers,
Are we really building bridges? When me and my family moved to the Eckington/Edgewood area last year, I was directed to my civic association, list servs, ANC 5C, and other entities. It is very disheartening to see and hear how there are so many people who “want to change their community,” yet, they fight (even physically) amongst each other.
I find it difficult to see true community efforts—efforts that don’t have one individual person’s or group’s political agenda attached to it. Bigotry, intimidation tactics, cronyism, corruption, lack of professionalism, and so many other issues steal the livelihood and enrichment that ALL of our neighborhoods offer. It really is a shame that we do not utilize all of our individual resources/skills to come together on behalf of the common good.
We all claim we are tired of the “petty politics” at the highest level of district government, but it seems to have trickled down to even the lowest level of public service in our ward. There are some of us out here that truly want to be a part of their communities and make that real change without all of the politics.
I truly hope that with the new year rapidly approaching, we can learn to put aside the pettiness and make better use of our time. I, for one, plan to become more deeply involved with my community—even if I have to begin building these bridges by myself.
I am looking to work with likeminded individuals. Feel free to contact me at anytime.
Kind Regards,
Jamie Triplin-Hines, MPA
www.thinkwritedevelop.com
202-681-2278
J. Jioni Palmer ANC Candidate 5C08 Letter to Neighbors
Dear neighbor,
Too often the crackle of gunfire, the trafficking of drugs and prostitutes, home burglaries and robberies violate our sense of security and undermine our quality of life. Making our community safe is one of my top priorities.
While the District of Columbia is experiencing the lowest rates of crime in a generation, the reality is that in too many neighborhoods in our great city continue to experience the devastating loss of human life to violence and property crimes.
By no means are the root causes of the crime plaguing our community one dimensional.
In fact, the sources are many. Inadequate conflict resolution skills, diminished economic opportunities, lack of parental and civic engagement, educational attainment and mental health issues are just some of the factors that play part in perpetuating the cycle of crime and violence.
The brave men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department continue to do an admirable job preventing crime, responding to incidents and working to strengthen the relationships with our community. However, there is always more that can be done, and as members of the Edgewood community we must all do our part.
As your Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, I will take the following immediate steps to address public safety in the Edgewood Community:
· Work with neighbors, community leaders and police to aggressively address crime by employing holistic solutions
· Attend Police Service Area (PSA) meetings
· Provide timely reports to police concerning emerging hotspots
· Petition the DC government to repave and improve lighting in more alleys
While the issues fueling the cycle of crime violence are many and complex, we can have a positive effect reversing them by engaging in a neighborhood conversation, sharing insights about emerging hotspots and strengthening our community’s relationship with the Metropolitan Police Department.
By working together as neighbors we can make Edgewood an even stronger community. There is no challenge too tough or problem too difficult when we work together. I ask for your support in this campaign for Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, because together we can make a difference.
J. Jioni Palmer
Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Candidate 5C08
cell: 202-680-9842
web: http://jionipalmer.com/
twitter: http://twitter.com/jjioni
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/J-Jioni-Palmer/123979307623909?ref=sgm
Too often the crackle of gunfire, the trafficking of drugs and prostitutes, home burglaries and robberies violate our sense of security and undermine our quality of life. Making our community safe is one of my top priorities.
While the District of Columbia is experiencing the lowest rates of crime in a generation, the reality is that in too many neighborhoods in our great city continue to experience the devastating loss of human life to violence and property crimes.
By no means are the root causes of the crime plaguing our community one dimensional.
In fact, the sources are many. Inadequate conflict resolution skills, diminished economic opportunities, lack of parental and civic engagement, educational attainment and mental health issues are just some of the factors that play part in perpetuating the cycle of crime and violence.
The brave men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department continue to do an admirable job preventing crime, responding to incidents and working to strengthen the relationships with our community. However, there is always more that can be done, and as members of the Edgewood community we must all do our part.
As your Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, I will take the following immediate steps to address public safety in the Edgewood Community:
· Work with neighbors, community leaders and police to aggressively address crime by employing holistic solutions
· Attend Police Service Area (PSA) meetings
· Provide timely reports to police concerning emerging hotspots
· Petition the DC government to repave and improve lighting in more alleys
While the issues fueling the cycle of crime violence are many and complex, we can have a positive effect reversing them by engaging in a neighborhood conversation, sharing insights about emerging hotspots and strengthening our community’s relationship with the Metropolitan Police Department.
By working together as neighbors we can make Edgewood an even stronger community. There is no challenge too tough or problem too difficult when we work together. I ask for your support in this campaign for Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, because together we can make a difference.
J. Jioni Palmer
Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Candidate 5C08
cell: 202-680-9842
web: http://jionipalmer.com/
twitter: http://twitter.com/jjioni
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/J-Jioni-Palmer/123979307623909?ref=sgm
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Bus Bays Temporarily Relocated at Rhode Island Station
For those of you that have been using the Rhode Island Metro station and bus bays please take note of the upcoming relocation during the ongoing construction. The good news that I gained from this message is that the parking garage is looking to be completed by June 2011 and the rest down by summer of 2012.
Bus bays at Rhode Island Ave-Brentwood Metrorail station temporarily relocated
For immediate release: October 21, 2010
Ongoing construction of new Metro parking garage, commercial project shifts bays
The bus bays at the Rhode Island Ave-Brentwood Metrorail station will temporarily shift for five months starting on Monday, Oct. 25, as construction continues on a new parking garage, ground transportation service area, and a housing and retail joint-development project adjacent to the station.
Customers will have to board buses and use Kiss & Ride at their new, temporary locations across the parking lot that is near the station entrance. The Kiss & Ride area will continue to accommodate parking, car-sharing, taxis, and passenger pick-up and drop-off during the construction.
The construction, which began in April, is expected to be finished on the parking garage in June 2011 and by the summer of 2012 on the other projects.
News release issued at 11:36 am, October 21, 2010.
McMillan Sand Filtration Site Development Meetings
Sorry for the late posting as I have been trying to catch up today I realized that one of these meetings has already occurred. I have not been able to make it to them and unless they reschedule the October 30th one I will be missing it too. If anyone has attended and has any insights please feel free to write to me or post them in the comments.
See this 10/16/2010 message from Tania Jackson:
Thanks to all of the people who came out today for our first McMillan Sand Filtration Site Planning Meeting. We had a great turnout and hope to capitalize on that, and expand attendance.
We`ll be holding Design Salons where interested individuals can meet one on one with the design team. These are the two dates:
o Monday, October 18 6-8PM with Matt Bell, Urban Design Architect -- here is an update from Tania Jackson: tonight's first salon will be held at Big Bear Cafe, 1st & R Street NW in Bloomingdale
o Monday, October 25 6-8PM with Warren Byrd, Landscape Architect
Please call me or email mcmsalon@gmail.com to schedule yourself into these two sessions.
We will be holding two more meetings at St. Martin’s Church:
o Saturday, October 30 9-12 (preliminary design concepts with recap of feedback)
o Saturday, November 20 9-12 (final concept plan)
Please also feel free to email or call me with questions.
Thanks,
Tania
(m) (202) 355-8998
See this 10/16/2010 message from Tania Jackson:
Thanks to all of the people who came out today for our first McMillan Sand Filtration Site Planning Meeting. We had a great turnout and hope to capitalize on that, and expand attendance.
We`ll be holding Design Salons where interested individuals can meet one on one with the design team. These are the two dates:
o Monday, October 18 6-8PM with Matt Bell, Urban Design Architect -- here is an update from Tania Jackson: tonight's first salon will be held at Big Bear Cafe, 1st & R Street NW in Bloomingdale
o Monday, October 25 6-8PM with Warren Byrd, Landscape Architect
Please call me or email mcmsalon@gmail.com to schedule yourself into these two sessions.
We will be holding two more meetings at St. Martin’s Church:
o Saturday, October 30 9-12 (preliminary design concepts with recap of feedback)
o Saturday, November 20 9-12 (final concept plan)
Please also feel free to email or call me with questions.
Thanks,
Tania
(m) (202) 355-8998
New DCRA Regulations for Vacant Properties
In the beginning of this month new laws were enacted which impact the vacant properties in our city. I am sure everyone has been walking down a street and then seen a boarded up, overgrown house or building and thought that it was a shame and could be fixed up to become part of the neighborhood again. While I was reading DCRA's website I came across a page that discussed turning vacant properties into affordable housing which I thought was an unique and inspirational idea. Here is the article from the Post and the links to DCRA where you can report vacant properties in your neighborhood.
New DCRA Regulations for Vacant Properties
New laws go into effect for vacant properties
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/13/AR2010101302936.html
This month, the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs begins enforcement of new vacant property regulations using taxes to discourage property blight in the District. The new system gives the agency the authority to identify, inspect and classify commercial and residential properties as vacant or to deem a property blighted.
The Vacant Property Disincentivization Amendment Act of 2010 made several adjustments to the vacant property registration laws. Owners of vacant properties who do not qualify for one of four exemptions under District law will be required to pay a $250 registration fee. Their properties will be taxed at a rate of $5 per $100 of assessed value. Properties in poor or unsafe condition can also have their property deemed blighted with their properties taxed at a rate of $10 per $100 of assessed value. The owner must pay a $250 renewal fee each year until the property is legally occupied or qualifies for an exemption.
Visit http://dcra.dc.gov.
New DCRA Regulations for Vacant Properties
New laws go into effect for vacant properties
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/13/AR2010101302936.html
This month, the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs begins enforcement of new vacant property regulations using taxes to discourage property blight in the District. The new system gives the agency the authority to identify, inspect and classify commercial and residential properties as vacant or to deem a property blighted.
The Vacant Property Disincentivization Amendment Act of 2010 made several adjustments to the vacant property registration laws. Owners of vacant properties who do not qualify for one of four exemptions under District law will be required to pay a $250 registration fee. Their properties will be taxed at a rate of $5 per $100 of assessed value. Properties in poor or unsafe condition can also have their property deemed blighted with their properties taxed at a rate of $10 per $100 of assessed value. The owner must pay a $250 renewal fee each year until the property is legally occupied or qualifies for an exemption.
Visit http://dcra.dc.gov.
Take Action: Rhode Island Avenue Safety Improvements Needed
A few weeks ago I wrote about the need for improvements to the sidewalks along Rhode Island Avenue, as well as, the access to the Rhode Island Ave metro station. Greater Greater Washington followed up with a great article on the issue. Those of us that regularly ride the bus or metro out of that station know how dangerous it can be to get to get there. The sidewalks are narrow and close to the busy traffic and the staircase is steep and narrow with steps crumbling. With millions of dollars being invested in redeveloping the parking lot into new retail and apartments you would think that an upgrade to the outdated sidewalks and stairs would be a natural progression. However, it has not been included in the plans!!!
We can change this by letting DDOT Director Gabe Klein and our Councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr., know that we need these changes to happen now while the area is being redeveloped. I wrote CM Thomas and received a response that they would forward my concerns to the project team and I have not heard anything back since then. Everyone knows that there is power in numbers and the squeaky wheel gets the grease. I am asking everyone to spread the word about this issue.
The Coalition for Smarter Growth has begun a petition to DDOT Director Gabe Klein and Ward 5 Council member Harry Thomas, Jr., that states the need we residents have to get these items fixed. Please sign the petition now and forward the link on to get as many people as possible to send the message that this is not an issue that we will let fade away!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
DCBIA Met Branch Trail Project
The DCBIA work on the Edgewood section of the trail is very close to completion and you should check it out if you have not yet. On October 2nd there were close to 500 volunteers cleaning out the area and planting. I was there for the whole day and it was amazing to see the amount of trash and debris that was removed - many, many truck loads. The project implementation was continued by professionals that week and a second smaller group of volunteers on the following Saturday. I really want to thank DCBIA and all of the volunteers for adding such a great amenity to our community. I was able to volunteer both Saturdays and met a lot of great people that are working on other projects in our community. I was told by the Bozzuto crew that the Rhode Island Station project is coming along nicely.
The finished project is full of edible and fruit bearing plants and will be joined by fruit trees to be planted by Casey Trees this December. I believe that close to 5,000 plants were added with this project. I hope that everything will grow, thrive and become a destination spot for our neighborhood.
Here is a link to the news story:
http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/news/dc/15,000-newly-planted-trees-beautify-the-district-100410
McMillan Sand Filtration Site Redevelopment Planning Meeting
Please see the following information about the meeting on Saturday:
McMillan Sand Filtration Site Redevelopment Planning Meeting
Meeting #1: Meet the Experts
Join us for a panel introduction of the design team that will create the final
concept plan for the site. This is Meeting #1 of a three meeting series and
will give you a chance to meet and talk to the design team, get a schedule for
future meetings, and learn how to share all of your ideas.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
10 AM to 12 NOON
St. Martin's Church
1908 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(Enter on T Street)
Meeting Hosts:
The Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development
Councilmember Harry Tommy Thomas, Jr.
Vision McMillan Partners
McMillan Sand Filtration Site Redevelopment Planning Meeting
Meeting #1: Meet the Experts
Join us for a panel introduction of the design team that will create the final
concept plan for the site. This is Meeting #1 of a three meeting series and
will give you a chance to meet and talk to the design team, get a schedule for
future meetings, and learn how to share all of your ideas.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
10 AM to 12 NOON
St. Martin's Church
1908 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(Enter on T Street)
Meeting Hosts:
The Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development
Councilmember Harry Tommy Thomas, Jr.
Vision McMillan Partners
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Edgewood Run/Walk/Bike Group Meeting Tonight
The Edgewood Run/Walk/Bike group is meeting at the Edgewood Recreation Center at 6:30p.m. tonight to go to the Metropolitan Branch Trail for some exercise. This group meets every Tuesday so feel free to join us every week!
Please remember to bring some water.
Please remember to bring some water.
Citywide Neighborhood Watch Training [Save the Date]
Citywide Neighborhood Watch Training [Save the Date]
Please share with other community listserv groups.
Save the Date: Saturday, Oct 23rd
National Crime Prevention Month
Citywide Neighborhood Watch Training
Please share with other community listserv groups.
Save the Date: Saturday, Oct 23rd
National Crime Prevention Month
Citywide Neighborhood Watch Training
Monday, October 4, 2010
Metropolitan Branch Trail Safety
I have been thinking about this topic and post for awhile now and wanted to wait until I had all my thoughts together to write it. I love the Met Branch Trail - I walk, ride and run on it many times a week if not every day. I have never had a problem or unpleasant interaction while I am on it. Earlier this summer there were a rash of incidents of kids throwing rocks at people and if you have not heard this past week some kids threw urine on a biker. There have been other reports of people being pushed off their bikes and injured or hit. All of these reports upset me and enrage me that a community amenity is being abused instead of celebrated.
Then the question arises is how do we stop these kind of things from happening and make the trail a place everyone can enjoy? There are many things that are being and have been done. DDOT installed cameras earlier this year on the Eckington section of the trail and reported that seemed to stop the rash of rock throwing. They have now installed a camera in the Edgewood section of the trail and are looking into installing more. MPD has regularly been patrolling the trail and is aware of the need for continued patrols. There are the obvious things that you can do to make yourself feel safer - go in groups or with a friend, have your cell ready to dial if necessary (mine will voice dial which is great), take your dog, go at different times of day, call 911 if you see anything suspicous and look out for your neighbors. If you look at most of the reported incidences they seem to occur from late afternoon to evening, to bike riders, people that were by themselves, and near entrance points to the trail. I firmly believe that more eyes on the trail the better and I hope that everyone will continue to use it and encourage others to as well.
There are ways you can get involved with the trail. The Edgewood Walk/Run/Bike group meets every Tuesday, the new DCBIA nature trail and plants to explore, and the 5K planning group which is meeting tonight - information below.
When: Monday, October 4, 2010
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Although we have moved the start time to 6:30 p.m., please feel free to come as you are able.)
Where: NOMA BID Office, 1200 First Street, NE, Suite 310, Washington, D.C. 20002 (You will be asked to sign in at the front desk, after which you can ask the attendant to send you up to the third floor) Nearest Metro is New York Avenue Station on the Red Line.
Agenda: See below
If you have not done so already, please RSVP to cristinaesteron@yahoo.com so that we have an idea as to how many to expect.
Thank you so much!
Cristina & Sherri
*************************************************************************************************************************************
MBT 5K Race/Walk Organizing Meeting
Monday, October 4, 2010
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
NoMa BID
1. Introductions
2. Overview of Confirmed Race Details
3. Overview of Contract Obligations of DC Road Runners Club
4. Organizing Lead Volunteers
5. Sponsorship Brainstorming
6. Set Next Meeting Date and Potential Topics for Next Meeting
Friday, October 1, 2010
Homes Sales in Edgewood
Here is the weekly data on homes for sale in Edgewood. I am using Redfin because it allows you to search by neighborhood, but if you have any other ideas or ways to get listings or open houses please let me know!
Here is the link to the data in Redfin:
Edgewood DC Real Estate
Edgewood has a very diverse housing stock with a wide range of sizes and prices. Right now the most expensive places listed are the new homes being built in Chancellor's Row listed at $559,900 while the least expensive listing is a 1 bedroom condo listed at $74,900.
There is new sale posted:
218 Channing Street NE sold on September 23rd for $169,000
There are no open houses listed for Edgewood. If you know of any please add the information to the comments section.
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