NEW! Planning Study Finalized and Ready to Go Public

After a summer of compiling all we learned and finalizing recommendations, we are excited to share the final report for the Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study [PDF]. 

Recommended strategies seek to enhance the corridor by:  

• Establishing a comfortable pedestrian environment  
•  Creating outdoor gathering spaces that feature arts and culture  
•  Supporting existing small businesses and attracting new businesses to meet community needs  
•  Expanding housing options for all incomes  

The Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study presents a vision for the future of the corridor with 25 actionable strategies and new Streetscape Design Guidelines to make this vision a reality.   

Our team is deeply grateful for the input and lived experiences shared by the hundreds of neighbors, business owners, service providers, shoppers, worshippers, and advocates that participated in this planning process. We are excited to continue working with members of the community and government agencies to carry the study findings/recommendations forward. 

These recommendations will be implemented through private development and public investment, led by public agencies, property owners, and community groups. OP is already coordinating with agency partners to begin work. 

Read the Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study

View the Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study Findings and Draft Recommendations.

An initial report with findings and draft recommendations was shared with the public in late April 2025: 
Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study: Findings and Draft Recommendations [PDF]

We wrote the findings and draft recommendations in this report by analyzing land use and market conditions analyses, evaluating public realm conditions including pedestrian assets and needs, and listening to community members and stakeholders. Feedback on these initial findings informed updated recommendations and supplemental guidance in the final report. 

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