Background

Rhode Island Avenue has played a vital role as a gateway to the District since the city was first established, and thousands of people use the corridor every day. The corridor hosts a rich variety of local shops, businesses, residences, and community institutions that support the surrounding neighborhoods. However, the segment of the corridor east of 13th Street NE is experiencing high commercial vacancy rates, a challenging pedestrian environment, and other unmet community needs, including low access to fresh food. The Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study will lay the groundwork for potential future investment that can catalyze new economic development opportunities for the corridor and its communities to grow and thrive. 

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

An initial report with findings and draft recommendations is now available for review. 

Rhode Island Avenue Planning Study: Findings and Draft Recommendations [PDF]

The findings and draft recommendations in this report were developed through conducting an analysis of land use and market conditions on the corridor; evaluating the public realm including pedestrian assets and needs; and engaging with community members and stakeholders.  

OP will continue to develop the analysis with detailed policies and supportive graphics throughout the spring and summer. Following the public comment period on the draft, OP will revise and release a final report in September 2025. 

Project Timeline

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