A Pro-Housing Plan for DC

Washington, DC is launching its Comprehensive Planning process this year, setting the stage for housing policies that will shape our city for decades. This is our chance to push for increased density, affordability, and equitable development across all neighborhoods. Let DC Council Members know we expect bold action for more housing in the next Comp Plan—sign the petition today and help secure a thriving, inclusive future for our city!

Dear DC Council Members,

Washington, DC is facing a housing crisis. Rents increased 12% from September 2023 to September 2024 – higher than any major city in the United States. While DC will hit its modest goal of 36,000 new units by 2025, permits for new units have fallen dramatically since the beginning of 2023.

This downward trend exacerbates the existing shortage of affordable housing, leading to increased rents and displacement of long-term residents. Numerous studies have shown that increasing housing supply, including both affordable and market-rate housing, can help stabilize or reduce rents and prevent displacement.

• Expand Transit-Oriented Development: Much of the residential development in DC currently exists along corridors such as Connecticut Ave and 14th St. Meanwhile, much of the housing around many of the city’s major metro stations is zoned for single-family or row homes. The Comprehensive Plan should prioritize higher-density development including apartment buildings and mixed-use zones near all metro stations and other transit hubs.
• Legalize Apartments and Missing Middle Housing City-Wide: Currently, even small multifamily buildings are illegal in large swaths of the city. The Comprehensive Plan should allow the development of multi-unit buildings throughout the city to increase housing options - especially in high cost areas.
• Submit a Citywide Map Amendment to the Zoning Commission: The Congressional Home rule act governs much of DC zoning law and requires the Zoning Commission to separately approve changes to the zoning map even after they have been approved by the DC Council. The Council should direct the Office of Planning to submit a zoning map amendment after the completion of the Comprehensive Plan process that would implement all changes called for by the council. This would ensure that the city’s plans are implemented quickly and efficiently.

By adopting these measures, the DC Council can address the housing shortage, promote economic diversity, and ensure that Washington, DC remains an inclusive and vibrant city for all.

Signed,

[Your Name]