Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) have announced the selection of Parcel 6 Community Partners to lead the development of Parcel 6, a 202,758-square-foot site on the St. Elizabeths East Campus in Ward 8
Mayor Bowser emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “Nearly a decade ago, we envisioned a campus with housing, entertainment, retail, health care and more – and, together, that is what we are delivering. With nearly a billion dollars invested into the St. Elizabeths East campus, we are proud to be delivering on the community’s vision for this campus. And with each newly developed parcel, we are building on that vision,”
This latest initiative aims to create a vibrant, mixed-use community that will breathe new life into the historic campus. The project, led by Banneker Communities, will feature a blend of residential units, retail spaces, and community amenities, all designed to enhance the neighborhood’s walkability and create new job opportunities.
Omar Karim, President of Banneker Communities, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact. “Our team is proud to maximize the potential of this historic site by delivering high-quality homes, creating job opportunities, and fostering community engagement, all while ensuring significant participation from Ward 8-based and CBE-certified firms”
The ambitious plan includes two multifamily buildings, aptly named “The Malcolm” and “The Martin,” paying homage to civil rights icons Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. These structures will house 507 rental units, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments. Notably, 30% of these units will be designated as affordable housing, with a quarter reserved for residents earning 30% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI).
In addition to the apartments, the development will feature nine work/live townhomes, over 23,000 square feet of retail space, and 36,000 square feet dedicated to community parks and amenities. This thoughtful mix aims to create a self-sustaining neighborhood ecosystem that supports local businesses and fosters community engagement.
Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, Nina Albert, emphasized the transformative potential of this project. “Through Mayor Bowser’s investments and steadfast commitment to St. Elizabeths, together we have been able to grow this campus into a community that is delivering housing, jobs, amenities, and opportunities to Congress Heights and Ward 8 residents,”
The selection of Parcel 6 Community Partners follows a competitive review process that sought proposals to enhance the area along the newly constructed 13th Street SE. The winning team’s vision aligns closely with the administration’s goals for equitable development and neighborhood revitalization.
This development is part of a broader $900 million investment in the St. Elizabeths East Campus since 2018. Recent completions include the Entertainment and Sports Arena, The Residences at St. Elizabeths East, a 750-space parking garage, the new 801 East Men’s Shelter, the District Towns at St. Elizabeths East, Sycamore & Oak, Whitman-Walker Max Robinson Center, and the upcoming Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, scheduled to open in 2025.
