By Kelly Thomas
Each month, we’re sharing updates from ANC 6D to keep neighbors informed about the decisions shaping our Southwest community. ANC 6D is our community’s official voice to DC’s government, advocating on everything from traffic safety to new development applications.
At the April 21 meeting, public safety dominated the community discussion. Residents raised urgent concerns about a recent shooting at 1st and P SW Streets and the tragic death of a pedestrian at 6th and M Streets SW. Community members urged the District and ANC to prioritize pedestrian safety and treat reckless driving deaths as preventable crimes. ANC Commissioners asked the Mayor’s office representative to connect the ANC Council with the DC Department of Transportation for meetings on how to prioritize traffic safety, which the representative agreed.
The Mayor’s office shared updates on the DC budget. Congress has not restored funding to the city for this fiscal year, leading to what the Mayor is calling a “summer budget.” Planning is now focused on the FY26 budget and long-term projects like the RFK campus redevelopment. Commissioners expressed concerns about potential closures of recreation centers with the budget cuts, warning that safe spaces for youth must be protected.
DDOT officials also briefed the community on upcoming rehabilitation work on the 14th Street approach bridges. Construction will begin in spring 2027 and include phased closures. A public meeting on the project will be held May 7 at the Southwest Library.
Other updates included proposed legislation to curb ticket reselling and a zoning request for a new farm stand at DC Central Kitchen for neighbors who want to pick up donated fresh groceries on foot. The Alcoholic Beverage Committee reported no new complaints and recommended no action on license renewals for restaurants with settlement agreements, most of which was passed by the ANC.
The next ANC 6D meeting will take place Monday, May 19 at 7:00 PM. All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, contact 6D@anc.dc.gov.