Transforming the Anacostia Waterfront in Washington, DC

The Anacostia Waterfront area of Washington, DC is undergoing a massive transformation. With a $10 billion restoration and revitalization plan underway, the Anacostia Waterfront is the city’s fastest-growing area of employment, entertainment, and residential growth. The redevelopment project includes the building of Nationals Park, the Washington Nationals’ new baseball stadium, which will create 6,500 units of new housing, three million square feet of new office space, 32 acres of new parkland, and a 20-mile network of riverside trails. Moreover, local government and advocacy groups are dedicated to cleaning up the Anacostia River to restore its ecosystem.

1. Transformation of Anacostia Waterfront

This ambitious plan aims to seamlessly integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces while enhancing community access to the waterfront. The significant investments will not only boost local employment but also enhance the overall quality of life in the area.

2. Key Projects Along the Anacostia Waterfront

• Poplar Point – The 130-acre site will be developed into a mixed-use area and waterfront park, encompassing residential, commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces.
• Hill East Waterfront – Transforming the southeastern shore of Capitol Hill into an urban multi-use waterfront district that connects neighborhoods to the waterfront.
• Washington Canal Park – This new park will provide green space along the historic Washington Canal, enhancing the area near Nationals Baseball Stadium with recreational facilities.
• Marvin Gaye Park – Newly revitalized, this park will feature a bicycle trail, a restored stream, ponds, woods, and gardens.
• The Wharf (Southwest Waterfront) – Stretching nearly one mile along the Washington Channel, this redevelopment includes restaurants, shops, residences, a new hotel, marinas, and a waterfront park.
• 11th Street Bridge Park – A unique elevated park that blends recreation with educational and artistic opportunities, crossing the Anacostia River.
• Waterfront Station (formerly known as Waterside Mall) – A 2.5 million square foot mixed-use development that will house offices, residential areas, retail spaces, and a new grocery store.
• Kenilworth Parkside – This mixed-use project will provide 2,000 new housing units along with 500,000 square feet of commercial and retail space.
• Kingman Island – This 45-acre area along the Anacostia River will offer public access with trails, canoe tie-ups, and a playground.
• Anacostia Riverwalk – A 20-mile multi-use trail stretching from Prince George’s County, Maryland to the Tidal Basin and the National Mall in Washington, DC.
• Anacostia Metro Station – Plans are in place to enhance access to the waterfront via Metro, fostering a mixed-use hub rich with shops, residences, and offices.
• Ballpark District – The new Washington Nationals Baseball Stadium is a key factor for revitalization in the foreground of the surrounding neighborhood’s diverse mix of retail, entertainment, living, and office spaces.
• The Yards – This 42-acre area will feature 2,700 new condos and apartments, plus 1.8 million square feet of office space.