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March 13, 2025 · 6:55 pm

City Scales Back Rumsey Aquatic Center Plan

More than 100 residents turned out for Wednesday night’s community meeting on the Rumsey Renovation plans which was held in the North Hall of Eastern Market.

City Scales Back Rumsey Aquatic Center Plan

by Larry Janezich

Posted March 13, 2025

Thursday night, DPR and DGS presented design options for renovation of the Rumsey Aquatic Center which were substantially different from the more ambitious plans of CM Charles Allen, who secured additional funding for the project based on those plans. 

The boost in $15 million in funds for the Rumsey renovation was intended to support a new second story with community amenities like a senior center with a tech lounge, a business incubator space, and an indoor fitness center.  These were in addition to the DPR’s initial budget ($20 million) to expand and renovate the swimming pool which would occupy the first floor of the new building.

That’s not what the designers brought back to the community.

Instead, developers presented to the community three slightly different proposals, all of them without a build-out on the second floor, as well as a host of reasons why the original vision could not be realized. In addition to what they characterized as a limited overall budget of $35 million, the designers cited the cost of LEED/net zero certification as a significant constraint. 

Here’s Allen’s reaction: 

“Two years ago, I asked DPR and DGS leaders what it would cost to build a second floor to expand services and programs while modernizing Rumsey pool. They gave me an exact number, and I found that exact money – that’s the budget we have.  It’s clear from tonight’s meeting there’s not enough space on one floor to meet the needs of the community here, and I’m frustrated how quickly they’re trying to walk away from the fully funded second floor. I will work to get them back on track and believe we will find a solution to deliver the generational project everyone wants.”

ANC6B Commissioner Jerry Sroufe, in whose single member district the Rumsey Center falls, said “if you only have three options and no second story that’s a bitter pill to swallow.  I didn’t think they were very responsive to the concerns raised and I don’t think that the things they said they couldn’t do because of various restrictions are true.  I am sure they could do things differently if they wanted to – exceptions can be made and they didn’t make any.  I didn’t like any of the options in particular.  It seems they wanted one story.” 

Two polls taken during the meeting to which there were 66 respondents showed a clear preference for bigger and better pool space and fewer amenities.  Regarding the possible amenities squeezed into the first floor – a hot tub, a yoga studio, and a fitness studio – a 40% plurality chose “none of the above.” 

The three options can be viewed here:  https://dgs.dc.gov/page/rumsey-aquatic-center    

Go to “March 12 Community Presentation.”

Roy Philips, a neighbor and frequent user of Rumsey Pool who attended last night’s meeting, said that “the presenters didn’t provide options that capture what the community is looking for.  In building options they have lots of constraints ….  Due to the constraints they said all they can do is build a new structure that is roughly the size and footprint as the current building. They can make the pool about 12 feet wider to accommodate 2 more swimming lanes. There were no options to extend the building into the plaza or with a second floor…It seems like they are focused on all the impediments rather than a vision of what the community really wants.”

Here’s the sequence of events for the next steps:

TBD Community Meeting 3 – Design Update.

TBD Community Meeting Final Design.

(Permitting Phase)

TBD Community Meeting Construction Kick off.

TBD Construction Updates

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February 10, 2025 · 2:35 pm

Union Kitchen – Barracks Row – Opens Thursday

Union Kitchen at 430 8th Street, SE

Union Kitchen Distribution and Construction Manager Keith Chapman (left) and Union Kitchen Director for Union Markets, Matt Behringer.

Union Kitchen – Barracks Row – Opens Thursday

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 10, 2025

The long-awaited opening of Union Kitchen at 430 8th Street, SE, is scheduled for 7:30am on Thursday, February 13, according to Union Kitchen Store Director Matt Behringer who adds, “The first 100 customers will receive a free freshly baked cookie.” 

The Union kitchen concept is modeled on the small NYC bodega – a combination café and grocery story.  It will open daily from 7:30am until 9:00pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The store will also offer specialty grocery items including beer, wine, and sake as well as housewares.  An application for a sidewalk café – which would open in the spring – is in the works.

The opening will also feature several vendors whose products – many of them local – are found on Union Kitchen shelves.  They will be there to interact and to introduce their brands to the neighborhood. 

Reflecting store’s strong neighborhood orientation, Behringer says the Order Here counter will feature a QR Code soliciting photos of pets and neighborhood life for posting in a gallery on Union Kitchen’s wall.  Wiki says of the NYC bodegas, “they are renowned for their convivial culture and colorful character.” 

Union Kitchen is a local chain of bodegas and also a “food business accelerator,” which supports entrepreneurs who want to get into the hospitality business.  It’s headquartered at 1369 New York Avenue, (see here:  https://www.unionkitchen.com/  ).  And here:  https://www.instagram.com/unionkitchendc/?hl=en

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February 8, 2025 · 12:45 pm

Acqua al 2 Update

ANC6B Committee on Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration met last Tuesday to consider a Restaurant License for Acqua al 2.

Acqua al 2 Update

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 8, 2025

Restaurateur Ari Gejdenson is returning to Eastern Market to reopen Acqua al 2 (AA2).  The Italian menu will be the same, but the upstairs speakeasy – Jack Black’s – is gone.  His aim is to convert the speakeasy space to a dining and dancing event space for which Gejdenson envisions hosts selling tickets (fund raising tickets?) – which would technically meet ABCA criteria for a cover charge.  Gejdenson also wants to enclose the front sidewalk patio and extend dancing to that area with hours outside the same as those inside, 2am Sunday – Thursday and 3am Friday and Saturday.  He would also add carryout and delivery service.

Last Tuesday night, ANC6B’s alcohol licensing committee met to discuss the liquor license application with the request for the expanded operation.  Much of the discussion involved concerns of across-the-alley neighbors who have had ongoing issues with the restaurants facing 7th Street on the block.

Gejedenson had generally been a good neighbor during the first incarnation of AA2.  After it closed, it was succeeded by Harvest Tide, whom the neighbors found unresponsive to their concerns about trash, rodents, and delivery trucks blocking the alley and preventing access to their garages. 

Responding to neighbor complaints, ANC6B negotiated a new and more stringent Settlement Agreement with Harvest Tide.  (A Settlement Agreement is the mechanism agreed to between the ANC and the restaurant which governs its operations – trash, rodents, parking, hours, etc.) Neighbors say that Harvest Tide continued to be a bad neighbor despite the new Settlement Agreement. Gejdenson said that was largely because the city was lax in enforcing the Agreement.

The (ABCA Committee – per comment below) want Gejdenson to sign the same agreement they had with Harvest Tide.  Gejdenson is resisting signing the more stringent agreement saying he is unwilling to “assume additional risk” by signing commitments which could allow neighbors to put on him things that should be the city’s responsibility. 

After two contentious hours of discussion, the committee agreed to designate temporary committee chair Commissioner Anna Krebs and Commissioner Jerry Sroufe to meet with Gejdenson and his attorney in hopes of reaching an agreement on a Settlement Agreement before the full ANC meets on next Tuesday.  If not, the parties can request a two week extension to negotiate.  Gejdenson hopes to open within the next 30 to 90 days. 

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February 1, 2025 · 9:27 am

Update on Watkins Playground and Park

Update on Watkins Playground and Park

By Larry Janezich

Posted February 1, 2025

Community meeting on Watkins Playground and Park Update, Thursday, January 30.

Concept design for the new Watkins Playground

Last Thursday night, the Department of General Services (DGS) hosted a community meeting at Watkins School to solicit input on the design for the new Watkins Playground – part of the Watkins Playground and Park upgrades.  Construction is scheduled to begin on the $2.25 million project this summer with completion anticipated in the fall. 

The current playground will be demolished and new playground equipment will be installed.  The basketball courts will be resurfaced and improvements will be made to Watkins Field.  

A common community concern regarding DGS and Department of Parks projects is what happens to the project after completion. 

Some parents of Watkins students who attended the meeting expressed frustration at the lack of planning for maintenance and how difficult it is to get equipment repaired.  One attendee said she had “no faith in the ability of the DC government to fix things,” and questioned the wisdom of installing new swings on the playground, citing how quickly they tend to break and how impossible it is to get them fixed.  The result, she said, was a dead zone in the playground. 

Department of Recreation External Affairs rep Tommie Jones acknowledged existing difficulties in the city’s repair response record.  But he also said that there was pressure from the community for swings because they are so popular with children. 

ANC6B Chair Vince Marino attended the meeting and later commented, “I’m pleased that DPR is taking community feedback seriously, from both adults and children.  I’m especially happy that DGS, the maintenance corps of the city, sent a representative who took notes on the neighbors’ heartfelt complaints about the slow pace of city repairs and litter removal.”

For more info and a link to the January 30 PowerPoint presentation, go here:  https://bit.ly/4aDfKlD

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January 26, 2025 · 9:08 pm

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

By Larry Janezich

Posted January 26, 2025

Here are the 1st, 2nd  (2), and 3rd place winners of the Hill Center’s 2025 Regional Juried Exhibition, juried by Phil Hutinet, publisher of East City Art.  The exhibitions run from January 15th through May 3rd.

First Place, Jessica Maria Hopkins.  Colors of My Reflection.  Acrylic, Acrylic pen, ball point pen on canvas. 

Second Place # 1, James Terrell, The Last Supper.  Collage, Acrylic Paint, Paper and Fabric.

Second Place #2, Take Me to the Water.  Collage, Paper, Fabric, Paint.

Third Place, Maddy Keener, Pick The Gleaming Bones Clean.  Acrylic on Canvas. 

Capitol Hill Books at night.

Here’s Triple Candies’ January exhibit and a detail from same, in the space in front of the former Li’l Pub at 655 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  Triple Candie is a research-oriented curatorial agency run by art historian co-founders Shelly Bancroft and Peter Nesbett.  Their purpose is to create alternative exhibition methods making that the object of critical focus rather than what is displayed.   

The Week Ahead…

Highlights: 

  • Tuesday:  ANC6A ABC Committee considers  proposed letter requesting the city council to pass legislation creating a provision for a moratorium zone for cannabis licenses equivalent to the provision for a moratorium zone for alcohol licenses.
  • Wednesday:  Watkins Improvements Meeting

Monday, January 27

ANC6A Community Outreach Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Agenda:

  • Adoption of Agenda and Approval of Minutes​
  • Ice Breaker – Movie suggestions
  • Announcements & Updates – Reminder of Sunday morning cleanups on I Street NE – People’s Front of H Street NE Group – How to join the 6A list serve.
  • Introduction of ANC6A Community Outreach Committee New Members
  • Vote on New Meeting Schedule

ANC6B Parks and Public Spaces Task Force will hold an in-person meeting at 7:00pm.

  • 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Second Floor, Conference Room 3 (Main Entrance Adjacent to Trader Joe’s)

Agenda:   TBA

ANC6B Public Safety Committee Meeting will hold a virtual meeting at 6:30pm. 

Among items on the agenda:

  • Metro Police Department 1D Update
  • Guest Presentation
  • 2025 Committee Goals Planning
  • February Commission Action Items and February Committee Agenda Planning

ANC7D Community Relations and Grants Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 6:30pm.

Agenda:  TBA

Tuesday, January 28

ANC6A Alcohol Beverage & Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

Agenda:

  • Discussion of a new Medical Cannabis Retailer license with delivery endorsement at Dreamy DC, 1111 H Street, NE.
  • Discussion of a letter requesting the city council to pass legislation creating a provision for a moratorium zone for cannabis licenses equivalent to the provision for a moratorium zone for alcohol licenses.
  • Discussion of a new Class C Restaurant license with carry out and delivery endorsement at Dumpling Hot Pot Beyond, 1216-1218 H Street.

ANC6B Executive Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Agenda:  TBA

Wednesday, January 29

EMCAC will hold an in-person and virtual meeting in the North Hall, Eastern Market at 7:00pm.

  • For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  TBA

Agenda:  TBA

Thursday, January 30

Watkins Improvements Meeting

  • DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the DC Department of General Services will discuss the Watkins Recreation Center park and playground improvements on Thursday, January 30, 2025, 6:00-7:30 @ Watkins Elementary School. RSVP at https://watkins.splashthat.com/

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about: 

Thursday, January 30.  6:30pm. Free Event at Folger Library. 

This panel discussion explores the unexpected ways Shakespeare’s legacy has endured, and how engaging with theater-making enhances the relevance and value of Shakespeare in the everyday lives of people.

The keynote is led by Folger’s Director of Programming & Performance and Folger Theatre Artistic Director Karen Ann Daniels in conversation with:

  • author, adaptor, director, theater scholar and Where There’s a Will podcast host, Barry Edelstein
  • Latine playwright, educator, facilitator, producer and Director of Public Works at the Public Theater Laurie Woolery

Register here:  https://www.folger.edu/whats-on/shakespeare-as-a-starting-point-shakespeare-with-community-reading-room-festival-2025/

Free Exhibit at the Folger through February 9.  Little Books, Big Gifts: The Artistry of Esther Inglis – A special exhibition at the Folger.

Stuart and Mimi Rose Rare Book and Manuscript Exhibition Hall

Free; timed-entry pass recommended

Esther Inglis (1570?—1624) was a professional-class Franco-Scottish refugee, a working mother of eight, and a contemporary of Shakespeare. Earning her living by her pen, she combined her artistic skills and her religious beliefs to create over 60 miniature handwritten and hand-illustrated books. She strategically gifted these books to dozens of prominent European Protestants during a period of religious turmoil. Four hundred years after her death, this exhibition explores Esther’s life and work as an early modern influencer and as the first woman in Britain to preface her works with selfies.

For more on this and other exhibits, go here:  https://www.folger.edu/whats-on/

Artists: Open Call at the Capitol Hill Art League – Submissions Close 2/14/24.  The Capitol Hill Art League (CHAL) is holding its 14th Annual “Open Call” art competition for artists throughout the DMV as well as Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia. This year’s theme is “Landscape”.

This annual competition awards cash prizes and attracts artists of many varied talents. The juror for the competition is Glenn Kessler, an internationally collected and awarded artist and founder of the Compass Atelier in Rockville, MD.  

If you are an artist, you need not be a member of CHAL to enter.  Link for more information about the show:  https://client.smarterentry.com/chal

For more information about the Capitol Hill Art League please visit: https://www.caphillartleague.org/

Capitol Hill Chorale is recruiting 55 and older adults as new members.  No experience is required to join an Encore choir!  There are no auditions to become a member of an Encore program; interested singers need only to have a love for music and a desire to improve their physical, mental, and emotional health. No singer needs to have any experience with music or singing, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Singers may be seated or standing for all ninety-minute rehearsals and performances. Most importantly of all, Encore is fun! Encore singers love the music, love to sing, and thrive on the camaraderie that comes with the Encore experience.  You can register at: https://tinyurl.com/5y9e5up4

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January 5, 2025 · 10:19 pm

The Week Ahead…& ANC Swearing In Photos

The Week Ahead…& Photos from ANC Swearing In

by Larry Janezich

Posted January 5, 2025

Thursday, January 2, ANC Commissioners were sworn in at a ceremony held at the Walter E. Wshington Convention Center. Image provided by Council of DC.

An image from the other side of the room. Photo: CM Charles Allen’s office.

An image of Ward 7 Commissioners being sworn in – oath being administered by newly-elected Councilmember Wendell Phillips. Photo: Council of DC.

You don’t see this every day – fresh Black Winter Truffles from Spain, vacuum-packed and available at Eastern Market’s Bowers Fancy Dairy Products.

This weekend, the Eastern Market craft vendors moved off of 7th Street, and into the North Hall. On Thursday at 12:00pm, the vendors of the South Hall will hold a moment of silence as the U.S. Navy honors former President Carter with a 21 gun salute from the Navy Yard.

Saturday afternoon, the American flag flew at half staff over the US Capitol in honor of former President Jimmy Carter. The 8 foot security fence reflects the two National Security Events taking place this week: The Joint Meeting of Congress on Monday to count the electoral ballots, and the Lying in State Tuesday – and Wednesday, with the State Funeral following on Thursday. See details below.

The Week Ahead…

Monday, January 6

Snow Emergency in effect.  Schools will be closed and trash will not be picked up.  Residents will be notified when trash collection resumes. 

ANC6B Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Agenda: 

  • Kenneth H Nash Post 8 American Legion t/a Kenneth H Nash Post 8 American Legion – 224 D Street SE. Substantial Change to Retailers Class C License to add a Games of Skill endorsement to their operations.
  • Appointment of ABC Resident Member for 6B06

ANC6C Alcohol Beverage Licensing  Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Agenda:

  • Update from Commissioner Wirt re: Kae LLC 312 Massachusetts Ave., NE, Medical Cannabis Retailer New License.
  • The Consortium at 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE.  Class C Tavern New License

ANC6D will hold a virtual Administrative Meeting at 7:00pm.

  • Please contact the office at 6d@anc.dc.gov if you wish to have a link to view the meeting.

National Special Security Event.  U.S. Congress will hold a joint session to count electoral ballots.   The US Secret Service says those who live and work in the District can expect security measures in place like those that are put in place during the State of the Union address.

Tuesday, January 7

National Special Security Event.  On Jan. 7, former President Jimmy Carter’s body will leave Georgia and be flown to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where a motorcade will drive him to Washington, D.C. There will be a service for members of Congress at 3 p.m. in the Capitol Rotunda.

  • Carter will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol from 7 p.m. until midnight Tues., Jan. 7, and again from 7 a.m. Wed., Jan. 8 until 7 a.m. Thurs., Jan. 9. Viewers can come to the Capitol and pay their respects during those hours.
  • At 9 a.m. Jan. 9, Carter’s body will be taken from the Capitol to the Washington National Cathedral for his National Funeral Service.
  • The Washington Navy Yard will conduct a 21-gun salute to honor President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025 at 12 PM. The Navy is honoring Carter’s life and legacy, including his time at the U.S. Naval Academy during World War
  • “The Secret Service will use drones as part of the comprehensive security plan.
  • For more, go here:  https://bit.ly/40khrR8

Wednesday, January 8

ANC6C will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

Among items on the draft agenda: 

  • Appointment and Election of Committee Members and Officers 
  • SMD appointments by individual commissioners
  • Election of at-large resident committee members (up to 3 per committee)
  • Election of committee chairs
  • Commissioner announcements
  • Consent Calendar TBD
  • Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee
    • The Consortium, 201 Mass. Ave. NE (new class C tavern) 

ANC6B Transportation Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

Agenda: 

  • DDOT Presentation on Penn/Potomac Intersection Redesign

Thursday, January 9

ANC6A will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Among items on the draft agenda: 

  • Motion to elect officers: Chair – Dave Wethington (6A04); -Vice Chair/Parliamentarian –Amber Gove (6A04); Secretary – Jeff Gierst (6A06); Treasurer – Roberta Shapiro (6A02)
  • Motion to elect members and leaders of the permanent Committees for 2024.

Plenary Session:

  • Suggested Motion: ANC6A approve a 10 percent increase in the compensation for services provided by the ANC 6A administrator and note taker. (The last increase was approved in October 2020.)
  • Suggested Motion: ANC6A protest the application for Substantial Changes to a Class C Tavern license at Henceforth DC at 1335 H Street, NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached.
  • Suggested Motion : ANC6A protest the application for a new Class C Tavern at Ethio Vegan at 1362 H Street NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached.
  • Suggested Motion : ANC6A protest the application for a Medical Cannabis Retailer license for Dreamy DC at 1111 H Street NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached. ANC 6A will request formal confirmation from ABCA that the proposed location for Dreamy DC does not violate any of the proximity limits in the Medical Cannabis laws or regulations. 
  • Suggested Motion : ANC6A ANC 6A protest the application for a Medical Cannabis Retailer license for Proper Exotic at 13 8th Street NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached.

ANC6B Planning and Zoning Committee hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

Agenda: 

  • Historic Preservation Application for 321 D Street, SE
  • 1900 Massachusetts Ave., SE [7F08] .  Zoning application for construction of new correctional facility. Owner(s): Department of General Services Applicant: Eric DeBear
  • 409 8th Street SE – Popeyes

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December 29, 2024 · 10:18 pm

Another Quiet Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

Another Quiet Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted December 29

Joselito Closes after Seven Years at 660 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  Here’s the notice announcing the closure posted next to the entrance. 

“With a heavy heart, we announce the permanent closure of Joselito Casa de Comidas in Eastern Market on December 28th.

It has been our privilege to serve you for the past seven years.  The laughter shared, the special occasions celebrated, and the community we have built together, especially through the pandemic, have been the highlights of our journey at Joselito.  Each meal, every conversation, and all of the faces we’ve seen have made Joseliro a place my father would have been proud of:  a place of warmth, connection and joy where friends and family gather.

While this closure is necessary, it is not the end of our story.  We are launching “el Rincon de Joselito,” twelve special seats at our chef’s counter at SER, our restaurant in Arlington, where guests will experience tasting menus from Joselito.  Seatings will be available by reservations made at least 24 hours in advance and will begin early in 2025.

We are incredibly grateful for your support and love over the years.  Thank you for being a part of our story and we hope to see you at “el Rincon de Joselito” at SER.

With deepest appreciation,

Javier, Christiana and the entire Joselito Team”

Last October, owner Javier Candon, told Eater DC that he would close once someone signed a new lease.  He said that once he found a tenant, the landlord (Stanton Development) agreed to let them go without any penalties.  No word yet on who Joselito’s successor in the space might be.

And on Barracks Row, Hill Restaurant Group announced that its Playa Ocho Cantina on Barracks Row was up for sale.  The sign says its temporarily closed for renovations.

The week before Christmas, Los Caballeros at 308 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, was celebrating its one year anniversary.

The Furies Collective House on 11th Street, SE, designated a National Historic Landmark.  On December 16, the National Park Service finalized the designation, marking an additional recognition of the significance of the house at 219 11th Street, SE.  The house had previously been listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.  The Furies Collective was a group of 12 lesbian feminist activists who made the house their operational center and published a newspaper called “The Furies.”  Between 1971 and 1973 the group’s publication raised questions about women’s place in society and the nature of the relationship between men and women, women and other women, and women and society.  In Greek mythology, The Furies were three goddesses of vengeance.

The house is now the home of Capitol Hill author Robert Pohl and his wife Antonia.  Here’s a link to Pohl’s Facebook page which follows progress on his latest book, 101 House in a Zeppelin https://www.facebook.com/RobertPohlAuthor

Fencing the Capitol.  Sunday afternoon, the Architect of the Capitol’s securing of the Capitol Complex with 8 foot fencing was underway.  This is the view from 2nd and Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  The fencing will eventually encompass the Capitol. 

Status Report on the Inaugural Platform.  Construction continues on the West Front of the US Capitol.  As seen in the photo, the structure on the far left is the radio platform from which audio  correspondents will broadcast live coverage of the ceremony.  Just to the left of center, the narrow white structure is the Center Camera Stand, where the network pool will provide head-on video coverage to other news subscribers who do not have cameras on this platform.  Other occupants of the structure will be network cameras (ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, FOX) providing unilateral coverage as well a C-SPAN camera and official video cameras.  Also on this platform will be still photographers from major news organizations.  On the far right, the South Camera Stand will be home to additional network cameras, video cameras from the major network and independent news organizations, and more still photographers. 

The Week Ahead…

Monday, December 30

ANC6A’s Community Outreach Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://anc6a.org/community-calendar/

Among items on the agenda:

  • Announcements & Updates – Reminder of Sunday morning cleanups on I Street – People’s Front of H Street Group – How to join the 6A list serve.
  • ANC 6A Community Outreach Committee Eligibility and Candidates
  • Community Comments & Concerns

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December 20, 2024 · 12:42 am

Rumsey Pool Likely to Close in January 2026 for Demolition/Reconstruction

Rumsey Pool Likely to Close in January 2026 for Demolition/Reconstruction

by Larry Janezich

Posted December 19, 2024

Thursday night, DPR held the first of many community meetings on the modernization of Rumsey Aquatic Court.

CM Charles Allen called the project a once in a generation opportunity.

Thursday night, DPR held its first community meeting to launch the design phase for the construction of a new Rumsey Aquatic Center.  CM Charles Allen told more than 150 attendees that they could swim for about another year while the new building is being designed and before the old building closes for at least 18 months of demolition and construction. 

The meeting was held in the North Hall of Eastern Market and was presided over by DPR External Affairs official, Tommie Jones. 

CM Charles Allen who shepherded the already-appropriated $37 million in funding for the project through the City Council spoke at the meeting.

Allen called the project a once in a generation opportunity and noted the challenges the project faced, being adjacent to the historic Eastern Market, and the importance of designing a structure appropriate for that space.  He said he had met with several swim stakeholder groups and heard one consistent message:  they want more water – more swimming lanes.  He said he heard a lot of ideas about the second floor, including an observation deck where parents can watch their children swim.  The second floor is currently slated to be a senior center with a tech lounge, a business incubator space, and an indoor fitness center.  Another opportunity will be to reimagine the alley between the new building and Eastern Market and activating the dead zone on the C Street side (which used to be the original entrance to the building).  He said, “The building will not be all things to all people,” but “we will turn to the community to ask whether we’re headed in the right or wrong direction – just let us know.”

Plans are under consideration to transport Rumsey swimmers to other pools during the closure.  “The Rumsey users are a community, Allen said, “and we will do everything we can to hold the community together.” 

In addition to ideas mentioned by Allen, DPR’s PowerPoint presentation listed other ideas which have been mentioned, including:

  • Zero Entry Approach to pool (also known as beach entry pool).
  • Locker Room improvements.
  • Explore new ways to activate front plaza.
  • Honoring local history.
  • Multipurpose community spaces.

The preliminary Project Milestone Schedule is as follows: 

  • Dec 2024 Community Meeting 1 – Project kickoff community meeting.
  • (Electronic Community Survey – February/March 2025)
  • Spring 2025 Community Meeting 2 – Concept Review.
  • (Schematic design phase)
  • TBD Community Meeting 3 – Design Update.
  • TBD Community Meeting Final Design.
  • (Permitting Phase)
  • TBD Community Meeting Construction Kick off.
  • (Construction Updates)

During Q&A, some of the concerns which members of the community asked the design team to consider included: 

  • The importance of providing adequate funding for maintenance.
  • Provision for swim meets.
  • Transgender bathrooms. 
  • Expansion of the building footprint.
  • Use of bromine or ozone instead of chlorine water treatment. 
  • Prioritizing use of the new building as an aquatic center. 
  • Keeping pool open until last minute.

Rumsey opened in 1970 as the Capitol East Natatorium – the first year round, racially integrated public swimming pool in the district.  The facility renamed in honor of Dr. William H. Rumsey, former Director of the DC DPR and co-founder of the Black History Invitational Swim Meet.  For more, see here:  https://bit.ly/3RCTY70

The project website where Thursday night’s Power Presentation will be posted is here:  https://dgs.dc.gov/page/rumsey-acquatic-center    DPR says it will go live on December 20.   

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December 18, 2024 · 1:23 pm

Mott’s Community Owned Market Hopes to Open in Early Spring

Mott’s Community Owned Market Hopes to Open in Early Spring

by Larry Janezich

Posted December 18, 2024

Mott’s Market Winter Wonderland Celebration and Holiday Market on Saturday, December 14. 

Payton Sherwood, the vendor and operator of the new Capitol Hill’s Mott’s Market at 232 12th Street, SE, says he “likes to believe the Market will open in early spring.”  That’s Payton on the right – also pictured at far left is Michael Skinner, President of Mott’s Market Neighborhood LLC.  The occasion was last Saturday afternoon’s Winter Wonderland Event at Mott’s.    Neighbors gathered for a celebration of the season and to view progress on the market’s buildout as the building takes shape for reopening. 

Sherwood says that the LLC has received its liquor license and funding is in place for the final push.  What remains is finishing the plumbing and electrical and inspections, then finishing the interior, final inspections and getting a certificate of occupancy. 

Mott’s Market closed as a neighborhood mom and pop store in 2022.  A group of neighbors organized by Skinner raised money to purchase and restore the store to preserve it as a community market.  The market is owned by an LLC comprised of 90 community members.  For more, go here:  https://www.mottsmarket.com/

Here’s a photo of the interior looking toward the street.  There’s room for inside seating (as well as outside).  More than a grocery, the carry out or eat on premises menu will feature sandwiches, pastries, prepared food, coffee, wine and beer.  True to it’s original function, the shop will stock household staples. 

Saturday’s holiday market at Mott’s included two artist’s stands offering ideal holiday gift ideas.  Here’s Erin Thompson Studio’s with Capitol Hill inspired art works.  https://erinthompsonstudio.com/

And here’s Medieval Scribe Saoirse (Seer-sha) Hosman’s exceptionally well crafted handbound books.  https://sites.google.com/hosman.us/saoirses-portfolio

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December 15, 2024 · 9:47 pm

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

By Larry Janezich

Posted December 15, 2024

Last Monday, there were signs of progress on the buildout for Dos Toros Taqueria, opening at 215 Pennsylvania Avenue – formerly the Firehook Bakery.  Dos Toros Taqueria – a San Francisco-style taqueria – has announced the opening of three outlets in DC. The enterprise has a dozen locations in NYC.  Here’s a link to the restaurant’s menu at the NYC outlets:  https://www.dostoros.com/menu  Photo credit:  Bob Gellman

Last Friday, CM Charles Allen held community office hours at Pretzel Bakery at 15th and C Street, SE. 

Friday afternoon, DC Public Library posted the December construction update on the modernization of the SE Public Library.  The Library closed on January 4, 2024 and is scheduled to reopen in early 2026. Here are a few photos from the update (see here: https://bit.ly/3ZEo7YL ) The one above shows the lower level, excavated and braced. Photo credit DCPL.

The new addition, lower level, facing South Carolina Avenue. Photo credit DCPL.

Laying of the concrete slab on the lowest level is complete.  The windows mark the original building’s lower level. Photo credit DCPL..

The new opening in the roof for the skylight.  Photo credit DCPL..

The Week Ahead….

Monday, December 16

ANC6B SE Library Taskforce will hold a hybrid meeting at 6:30pm.

The in-person meeting will be held on the 2nd floor of 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  The entrance is adjacent to Trader Joe’s.

 For info on how to join the meeting virtually, go here: https://anc6b.org/

Agenda:  Status of the renovation of the library and how to improve services at the DC Public Library’s Arthur Capper TechExpress, located on the second floor of the Arthur Capper Recreation Center in the Navy Yard neighborhood at 1000 5th Street, SE.  Services include wi-fi access, public computers, printing, copying and scanning as well as item return and holds pick-up.  For more, see here:  https://www.dclibrary.org/plan-visit/arthur-capper-techexpress

Tuesday, December 17

ANC6B’s Executive Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

For info on how to join the meeting, go here: https://anc6b.org/

Agenda:  To set the agenda for the January 14 meeting of the full commission.

Thursday, December 19

Community Meeting on Rumsey Aquatic Center (Rescheduled from December 12): 

DC Department of Parks and Recreation will host the first community meeting on the demolition and modernization of the Rumsey Aquatic Center, December 19, at 6:30pm in the North Hall of Eastern Market.  The design/build team are expected to take part in the meeting.   For more, see here: https://bit.ly/3ZsHnsv    

ANC6C Grants Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:30pm.

For info on how to access the meeting, go here:   https://anc6c.org/hot-topics/

Agenda:  TBA

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:

Closure of Downtown Metro Stations Dec. 20-30

WMATA plans to close some Downtown Metrorail stations for the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines between Friday, Dec. 20, and Monday, Dec. 30 to improve tracks and signaling.  During the closure, shuttle buses will replace train service at affected stations, providing customers with alternate access to stations. Stations will reopen Dec. 31.  Work will be completed in two phases:

Dec. 20-26: Farragut West, McPherson Square, and the lower level (Blue, Orange, Silver service) at Metro Center will be closed.

Dec. 27-30: Farragut West, McPherson Square, lower level (Blue, Orange, Silver service) at Metro Center, Federal Triangle, Smithsonian, and the lower level of L’Enfant Plaza (Blue, Orange, Silver service) will be closed.

For more info, go here:  https://bit.ly/3ZE3ZGl

Friday, December 20

Hill Center Event – 7:00pm until 9:00pm – $20

Holiday Music Spanning the Centuries Featuring Vox Pulchra and Celebrated Multi-Instrumentalist Tina Chancey.

For more info, to register and get tickets, go here:  https://bit.ly/3VGqo4H

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