Permanent Special Committee on Public Life & Neighborhood Planning (SCPL)

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Chairperson:

Commissioner Anthony Thomas-Davis (SMD 1A06)

Mission

Columbia Heights is a dynamic and culturally diverse neighborhood known for its rich cultural heritage, strong sense of community, and thriving local businesses and economy. The well-being and quality of life for residents in Columbia Heights are essential to its future, and the Commission is responsible for ensuring that public spaces, streetscapes, general services, and facilities meet the needs and expectations of our community. We believe that fostering public life and community vibrancy is a shared goal that requires a coordinated effort among government officials, community members, community organizations, and local businesses. The Special Committee on Public Life & Neighborhood Planning will accomplish this goal.

Read the Special Committee’s enabling resolution here. On September 11, 2024, the Commission approved amendments to the enabling resolution.

For more information on the ongoing Public Life Study led by the DC Office of Planning, click here.

To access committee resource materials, click here.

To view the Public Hearing on the Columbia Heights Civic Plaza, click here. A transcript is available here. View the final hearing record and recommendations for government action here.

For information on the Comprehensive Plan 2050 rewrite, click here.

The Special Committee on Public Life & Neighborhood Planning has the following objectives:

a. To identify and address challenges related to public life in Columbia Heights, including but not limited to the maintenance and improvement of public spaces, promotion of community events, and the overall enhancement of community engagement to improve the use of public space and facilities across the neighborhood.

b. To solicit input from community members, local businesses, and stakeholders to ensure that the Commission’s recommendations to the DC Office of Planning and other District agencies reflect our neighborhood’s diverse needs and interests.

c. To collaborate with relevant government agencies, community organizations, and local businesses to develop and implement strategies that will enhance the quality of life in Columbia Heights.

d. To provide periodic reports and recommendations to the Commission based on the findings and discussions of the Special Committee and to issue reports to the Commission, who shall make those reports publicly available.

To join the Special Committee email list, contact Commissioner Thomas-Davis at [email protected] or 202-855-8550. The email list is used for:

1. Periodic updates on the public life study and community planning news
2. Reminder and follow-up summary emails of committee meetings

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