This summer, the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) announced a revitalization plan to modernize and renovate public housing communities in the District. The plan comes after years of resident complaints about housing conditions.
DCHA selected 19 public housing communities for revitalization in the next several years after what the agency called a “comprehensive assessment” of its portfolio. Through improvements to the buildings’ physical structures, DCHA hopes to provide a safer space for residents to live. While this is a sweeping effort, it’s not the first time DCHA has promised changes, and housing advocates say they want DCHA to be very intentional about community engagement.
The first phase of the plan, which is set to begin in spring 2026, will involve renovations of around 1,900 public housing units, upgrading building systems and infrastructure at Claridge Towers, James Apartments, Fort Lincoln, Hopkins Apartments, James Creek, Sibley Plaza, Syphax Gardens, Lincoln Heights, and Knox Hill. The subsequent phases of the plan will include 10 other public housing communities: Harvard Towers, LeDroit Senior, Horizon House, Judiciary House, Regency House, Carroll Apartments, Kentucky Courts, Stoddert Terrace, Highland Addition, and Woodland Terrace…