K Simmons 10/9/26 K Simmons 10/9/26

Around the Neighborhood: ANC Meeting, Art Walk & Zoning Discussion

Hi Neighbors,

Here are a few upcoming events and opportunities to connect with our community!

ANC 3/4G Meeting — Monday, October 12

Our next ANC meeting will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. You can register and view the agenda here.

Ch/Art’s 7th Annual Art Walk — October 17–18

Join Ch/Art for its 7th Annual Art Walk on October 17–18, from noon to 5:00 p.m., featuring 86 local artists showcasing their work in 35 homes and studios throughout Chevy Chase, MD, and DC. Explore a variety of art, meet the artists, shop for unique pieces, and collect passport stamps for a chance to win a prize. Learn more here.

When Does Zoning Mean Exclusion? — Tuesday, October 20

Historic Chevy Chase DC invites the community to a Zoom discussion at 7:00 p.m. with housing policy expert Richard Kahlenberg, author of Excluded: How Snob Zoning, NIMBYism, and Class Bias Build the Walls We Don’t See. Joined by local planning and development experts, the conversation will explore how zoning can contribute to housing exclusion and how income-integrated housing can help create more inclusive communities. Learn more here.

I hope to see you at one of these upcoming events.

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 10/2/26 K Simmons 10/2/26

SMD 05 Community Updates: Civic Core, DCPL & DPR Focus Groups, & DC Water Rates

Hi Neighbors,

See below a few updates for your review.

Chevy Chase Civic Core Update

Councilmember Frumin provided an update on the Civic Core legislation. The hearing for the Chevy Chase Civic Core is scheduled for November 12, giving residents nearly two months to review the legislation and share feedback. For more details, read Councilmember Frumin’s October 1 newsletter here: Councilmember Frumin October 1 Newsletter

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DC Public Library and DC Parks and Recreations are in the early stages of designing a new library and community center for the Chevy Chase community. This will replace the current library and community center on Connecticut Avenue, between McKinley and Northampton Streets.

The library Community Engagement team are interested in speaking with residents about what they would like to see in their new library and community center. They are interested in learning what kinds of programs, services, art and other ideas you may have for your new library and community center.

In leu of gathering this information, the library would like to hold a focus group with 10-12 residents per focus group. They can come in person, or it can be done virtually. If you're interested, please see the link below to take the focus group screening survey so a date and time, that works best for you, can be scheduled.

If you are not interested in a focus group at this time, you can share your thoughts with other residents so at least they can express your concerns about the project.

Link/QR code: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/fGet5Dwfwf

To date DCPL and DPR has completed three focus groups with parents of school-age children and two focus groups with seniors. Please reach out to me if you are interested in being in touch with DCPL/DPR to participate in any upcoming focus groups.

DC Water

DC Water rates will increase by less than 6% starting October 2, 2026, raising the average residential bill by about $9 per month. The additional revenue will support major infrastructure improvements, while assistance programs remain available to help eligible customers manage higher bills. Please read DC Water’s press release here: https://www.dcwater.com/about-dc-water/media/news/dc-water-rates-will-change-october-2-while-maintaining-affordability

DPR

DC Parks and Recreation has launched a new interactive Capital Projects Dashboard, allowing residents to easily explore ongoing funded projects across the District, including project phases, locations, descriptions, and budgets. Explore the dashboard to see how capital investments are shaping DC’s parks and recreation spaces here: https://ready2playdc.com/capital-projects-live-tracke

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 9/27/26 K Simmons 9/27/26

Chevy Chase Civic Core Site Legislation: What Residents Should Know Quick Summary

Hi Neighbors,

The Chevy Chase Civic Core Site legislation has officially been introduced at the D.C. Council, and I want to share a high-level overview of what’s included. The proposal outlines how the District plans to modernize our civic campus and bring a new library, community center, double outdoors space, retail, and housing, all while keeping the land publicly owned. Per Council Member Frumin's latest newsletter, the hearing process should be initiated in mid-October.

You can review the legislation here: https://lims.dccouncil.gov/downloads/LIMS/62544/Introduction/B26-0801-Introduction.pdf?Id=246015

What the Project Delivers:

The bill authorizes construction of a brand-new Chevy Chase Library and Community Center, funded with over $50 million in District capital improvement dollars. It also includes 177 new rental homes, roughly half of which (90 units) are affordable, serving households at 30%, 50%, and 80% of the median family income in the DMV, and 87 market rate units. The affordable units will remain affordable in perpetuity. The project adds about 8,000 sq. ft. of community-serving retail and more than 55,000 sq. ft. of public open space at ground level, including a plaza, play areas, recreation courts (basketball/pickleball/tennis), outdoor classrooms, gardens, and a small amphitheater. This legislation brings meaningful benefits to our neighborhood - doubling our public outdoor space, delivering new modernized public facilities, and adding new homes (including homes where there were unused air rights) that will contribute to addressing the city’s broader housing affordability needs. The legislation also requires the developer to provide a temporary library to ensure that residents continue to have access to library services throughout construction.

Regulations require 35% of all contracting to go to Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs), 20% CBE equity participation, and 20% CBE development participation. This ensures local businesses share in the work and long-term financial benefits. A First Source Agreement will prioritize hiring DC residents during construction. This means that District businesses will directly benefit from this project, and DC residents will be first in line for jobs - helping strengthen our local economy at a time when many neighbors are still recovering from recent layoffs and increased unemployment.

The legislation requires ongoing community engagement, documentation of all meetings, environmental sustainability standards (including rooftop solar), and a detailed performance schedule to ensure accountability throughout development. This means residents will be able to stay actively involved as the project moves forward, ensuring it reflects our neighborhood’s needs and concerns, with community engagement continuing throughout the entire process.

I’ve put together this quick “cheat sheet” so you can easily search for sections of the legislation that I encourage residents to take a look at.

Exhibit H – Concept Plans (Site Plan & Open Space Layout)
Exhibit C – Affordable Housing Plan (Housing Mix & Unit Sizes)
Exhibit B – Affordable Housing Covenant
Exhibit G – First Source Hiring Agreement
Exhibit K – Schedule of Performance
Temporary Library

As a quick reminder you can view the ANC survey results here: SMD 05 Civic Core Survey Results 2025 and SMD 06 Civic Core Survey Results 2025. The 2025 ANC survey showed plurality support for housing at the Civic Core site for SMD 05, and majority support for inclusivity by SMD 06 across the street from our SMD on Connecticut. These are the SMDs most directly impacted by the new development at the Civic Core. I would like to also remind the community of my previous minority opinions on the Civic Core here: Simmons Minority Opinion July 2025 and Simmons Minority Opinion May 2026

Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 9/26/26 K Simmons 9/26/26

Neighborhood Updates: ANC Meeting, DC PLUG Construction & Traffic Safety

Hi Neighbors,

Please see a few updates below for your awareness.

Next ANC Meeting

Our next ANC meeting will be on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 7pm. You can see the agenda and meeting link here: https://anc3g.dc.gov/event/anc-34g-virtual-meeting-3

DC PLUG Feeder 467 Construction Notice – Saturday, September 26, 2026

Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Weather permitting

The DC PLUG contractor for Feeder 467 will conduct work on Livingston Street, NW, and Nevada Avenue, NW, including conduit installation, backfill, sidewalk restoration, and paving.

Affected areas include:

3700 block of Livingston Street, NW
3800–3900 blocks of Livingston Street, NW
5300–5500 blocks of Nevada Avenue, NW
5600 block of Nevada Avenue, NW

Traffic and parking impacts: Detours will be in place, and residents are asked to avoid parking in the affected areas. “No Parking” signs will be posted in advance.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as this work continues to improve electric service reliability in the neighborhood.

Department of Transportation

I encourage residents to report traffic concerns—such as speeding, drivers running stop signs, or requests for speed bumps—to 311.

311 reports are entered into DDOT’s Traffic Safety Input (TSI) system. The more complaints and reported incidents at a location, the more likely DDOT is to review it for potential traffic-safety improvements. Learn more about the TSI system here: https://tsi.ddot.dc.gov

Please see the attached notification letter from DDOT regarding changes to Connecticut Avenue, along with my letter to DDOT and their response. For those who have expressed concerns about Northampton Street and Connecticut Avenue becoming a high-speed cut-through for traffic, DDOT plans to eliminate the left turn at that intersection. Hopefully, this change will help improve safety and reduce traffic impacts on Northampton Street. Please refer to the information provided above to report any traffic or pedestrian safety concerns to DDOT.

Reminder, the Hawk light at Legation and Connecticut Ave should be operational soon!!

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 9/21/26 K Simmons 9/21/26

Community Update: Civic Core, Hawk Signal & DC PLUG

Hi Neighbors,

I hope you’re looking forward to the fall weather arriving this week! I wanted to share a few quick updates and follow up on some community requests.

Chevy Chase Civic Core Site

The Mayor has submitted legislation to the DC Council regarding the proposed disposition and redevelopment of the Chevy Chase Civic Core, with the hearing process expected to begin mid-October.

The revised plan responds to community feedback by:

Increasing affordable housing to 90 of the 177 proposed units
Reducing the overall scale of the buildings
Modernizing the library and community center
Expanding green space

I will continue to keep the community updated as more information becomes available. You can also read Councilmember Frumin’s September 17 newsletter discussing the Civic Core update here: Councilmember Frumin's Newsletter 9.17

During Chevy Chase Day I received multiple complaints about the water fountain located outside. A work order placed for this issue (#878188).

DC PLUG

Please see the attached DC PLUG F467 Three-Week Look Ahead Schedule and work progress map for the latest information on upcoming work.

Hawk Signal at Legation and Connecticut Ave.

Thank you to former Commissioner Connie Chang for her advocacy and previous efforts regarding the Hawk signal at Legation and Connecticut Ave.

This Hawk signal is being implemented during my time as Commissioner, and I have supported the installation and repeatedly requested that DDOT move it forward. I’m glad to share that the time has finally come! DDOT anticipates construction will be completed within the next four weeks.

This intersection is especially meaningful to me because I was involved in an accident there when my four-year-old child was in the car. It happened during rush hour when an impatient, speeding driver went around stopped traffic that was yielding to us. My car was totaled, but thankfully, my child and I were unharmed. I still think about what could have happened if someone had been in the crosswalk at the same time—they could have been caught between the two vehicles.

Having this Hawk signal at the intersection will improve safety for everyone, regardless of how they travel. I hope the many residents who have been waiting for this safety improvement are happy to hear this news.

I’ve attached photos of the tentative work underway.

Trash Removal — 3400/3500 Blocks of Livingston St.

I’ve reached out to DPW to ensure that residents who do not receive alley trash pickup are not missed this week due to construction on Livingston St.

Please submit a 311 request for missed pick up and keep your cans out until DPW has picked up the trash.

As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me regarding any concerns that you have.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 8/20/26 K Simmons 8/20/26

Community Updates & Upcoming Events – August Newsletter

Hi Neighbors,

I hope you’re doing well and getting ready for the upcoming fall season. Below are a few updates and reminders for the community.

Councilmember Frumin has received complimentary tickets from the Washington Nationals for Ward 3 Night on Friday, August 28 at 6:45 PM. If you're interested in attending, please fill out the form here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/wnEg67Vrw4. If you have a ward 3 constituent issue for the Councilmember Frumin’s office to follow up on, please submit it here: https://mattfruminward3.com/constituent-service/

Department of Public Works (DPW) Mulch is back at the Fort Totten Transfer Station! District residents can grab up to five 32‑gallon bags for free. Please bring your own bags and a shovel. Location: 4900 John McCormack Rd. NE; Tuesday–Friday: 10 AM–2 PM and Saturday: 7 AM–2 PM

12th Annual Chuck Brown Day! Join DPR for the 12th Annual Chuck Brown Day: Legends of Go-Go. August 22nd , 2 PM to 7 PM at Fort Dupont Park.

RESCHEDULED: Neighbors have organized a volunteer clean-up for Saturday, August 29th 9:30am -1:30 pm at the Chevy Chase Civic Core (5601 Connecticut Ave NW) area. Please join in if your schedule permits. Unfortunately, I am unable to make the rescheduled date due to an already scheduled commitment.

DC Art Now 2026 Opening Reception and Art All Night Kickoff Join the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in our Eye Street Gallery for DC Art Now 2026, a reception to celebrate the finalists for our FY27 Art Bank Program! Thursday, September 10, 2026 6-8pm; 200 I St SE #1400 Washington, DC 20003. Reserve a spot here: RSVP

Lead Free DC (LFDC) Virtual Meeting, is on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 7-8pm. Join by Teams: https://bit.ly/LFDCAug2026 or join by phone: +1 (202) 753-6714, Phone Conference ID #: 181 735 84#The agenda will cover: LFDC Program Update, How to engage with the program, Featured Topic: Losing the Lead – Your Timeline, Your Yard, Your Questions and Q+A with the LFDC Team. You will learn how scheduling works and what to expect for replacement timelines, what happens when construction begins on your block and on replacement day, and how yards and public spaces are restored after work is complete.

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Lieutenant Ollivierre is hosting a PSA 201 Community Walk. The walk will begin at 3pm at the Starbucks location at 5500 Connecticut Ave NW on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

I’ve received complaints about issues with rats from a few residents. I wanted to share the new “DC Rat Rangers” who are looking to engage with District Residents in safe rat prevention. DC Rat Rangers is an initiative of DC Responsible Rat Management, a coalition working to end the unintended harms caused by rodenticides while preventing conflict between residents and rodents. DC residents can sign up for education webinars for Friday, September 18th at 1:00pm or Saturday September 26th at 12:00pm. Registration information for all DC Rat Ranger walks, webinars and educational opportunities is available at https://www/dcratsolutions.com/rat-rangers

Art All Night Chevy Chase is happening on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 4-10pm. You can learn more about the event here: Art All Night Chevy Chase

Mark your calendars for one of Chevy Chase’s favorite neighborhood traditions! Chevy Chase DC Day returns on Saturday, September 19, from 1–4 p.m. at the Chevy Chase Civic Core (Chase Library and Community Center 5601 Connecticut Ave NW). More details will be announced soon. Visit the Chevy Chase Community Association website. The ANC approved a grant to support an ice cream truck to pass out free ice cream to the community.

Leadership opportunity for DC high school students: Sierra Club DC’s Climate Leadership Program is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. The deadline to apply is Monday, August 31 at 11:59pm.Open to high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors, the program is a chance for students to earn community service hours or choose to receive a $700 honorarium for their participation from September 2026 to April 2027. New this year: one student from each DC ward will be selected. Meetings will be held on Sundays from 12:30 to 3:00pm, on average twice a month for a total of 14 meetings, with lunch provided. Details and application can be found here.

Please reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. I look forward to seeing you around the community.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 8/6/26 K Simmons 8/6/26

Keeping You Informed: August Community Updates

Hi Neighbors,

It's been a while since my last newsletter, so thank you for your patience. There's few things to share, so I'll keep it as concise as possible. If you'd like more information on any topic, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Department of General Services (DGS) is hosting virtual Ward-by-Ward Educational Roadshows. The Ward 3 show is scheduled for August 11th 6-7pm. You can also register by clicking the following link: DGS Ward-by-Ward Educational Roadshow Registration Link

United Planning Organization (UPO) is looking for community residents residing in Wards 1,3,4,5, and 8 to join their board! If you’re interested, please learn more here: Board of Directors – Election 2026 | United Planning Organization. You can also learn more by attending a virtual session on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 6:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Streamed live on Facebook & Instagram @upoindc. If your schedule allows, I hope you will consider submitting an application.

Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) fall registration opens on Tuesday, August 11th for aquatics and Wednesday, August 12 for all other programs. Please check out the offerings at https://dprprograms.splashthat.com. I noticed the Chevy Chase Community Center has classes for amateur telescope making, pottery, and a few other offerings.

The Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) invites community members to help recognize District residents who are 100 years old or older, or who will be 100 by September 7, 2026. If you know a centenarian, please submit their name, date of birth, contact information, and a brief biography by August 14, 2026. To learn more or to submit a nomination, contact DACL at 202-724-5626 or dacl.communications@dc.gov

The District shared some initial preparations for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix scheduled for August 22 and 23. This is the first ever IndyCar series race. You can review the preparations video here: Preparations for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix.

Neighbors have organized a volunteer clean-up for Saturday, August 22nd 9:30am -1:30 pm at the Chevy Chase Civic Core (5601 Connecticut Ave NW) area. Please join in if your schedule permits.

Art All Night Chevy Chase is happening on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 4-10pm. You can learn more about the event here: Art All Night Chevy Chase

As summer winds down, I hope you have the opportunity to slow down, enjoy the season, and spend meaningful time with family and friends. The final weeks of summer are a wonderful reminder for me to appreciate the little moments and the people who matter most (especially before the start of the new school year). I’m wishing you all a safe, healthy, and enjoyable end to the season. I look forward to staying connected and sharing more updates with you this fall.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 5/27/26 K Simmons 5/27/26

Community Meetings and Upcoming Engagement Opportunities

Hi Neighbors,

I hope you had a great Memorial Day weekend. The ANC has launched a new website — please bookmark it for updates, meeting information, and upcoming events: https://anc3g.dc.gov/

We will have an ANC meeting tonight from 7:00–9:00 PM. You can find the meeting link and agenda details here: https://anc3g.dc.gov/event/anc-34g-virtual-meeting-2

Your Participation is Needed: Upcoming Events

DC 2050

The DC Office of Planning (OP) invites residents to help shape the future of neighborhood planning in the District. Community input will help strengthen how the Comprehensive Plan and small area plans guide neighborhood development across DC.

Residents can participate in the DC 2050 survey through June 7. The survey can be accessed here in the section titled “DC 2050 Explore Possible Futures Virtual Workshop.” Learn more and access the survey here: https://dc2050.dc.gov/

Chevy Chase Civic Core Project

The ANC will host a meeting with the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), DC Public Library (DCPL), Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), and Rift Valley on June 4. Additional details will be shared closer to the meeting date.

DCPL and DPR also invite residents to the Community Center Design Kick Off for the new Chevy Chase Library and Community Center on Tuesday, June 9, from 6:30–8:30 PM at the Chevy Chase Neighborhood Library.

Community members will have the opportunity to meet the design team, learn about the project, and share ideas for programs, services, and features they would like to see in the new facility. The event will also include remarks from DCPL Director Richard Reyes-Gavilan and DPR Director Delano Hunter Freeman, along with a discussion of modern approaches to library and recreation center design.

Additional engagement opportunities — including surveys, focus groups, and pop-up events — will continue throughout summer and fall 2026. Learn more here: https://dclibrary.libnet.info/event/16561525

Ranked Choice Voting

The DC Board of Elections is hosting webinars to help residents learn how Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) will work ahead of the 2026 elections. These sessions are an opportunity to practice the new voting process, ask questions, and become more familiar with ranking candidates on the ballot.

You can review upcoming webinar dates and registration information here: https://dcboe.org/rcv

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 5/14/26 K Simmons 5/14/26

Minority Opinion of Commissioner Simmons

Minority Opinion of Commissioner Karrenthya Simmons
Re: Interim Feedback and Requests Regarding the Rift Valley Chevy Chase Civic Core Redevelopment Proposal

‍I respectfully dissent from the resolution titled “Interim Feedback and Requests Regarding the Rift Valley Chevy Chase Civic Core Redevelopment Proposal.” The resolution mischaracterizes community sentiment, misstates the public process, applies an unduly narrow view of public land use, and risks undermining a project that delivers substantial public benefits to residents of Chevy Chase, Ward 3, and the District of Columbia.

‍The Resolution Misstates Community Sentiment

‍The resolution presents the community as firmly opposed to housing at the Civic Core site, but the survey data cited does not support such a definitive conclusion. Support for housing increased from 39.7% in 2023 to 45.1% in 2025, with even stronger support among residents living closest to the site. Nearly half of respondents in SMD 05 and a majority in SMD 06—those most directly impacted by redevelopment—supported including housing at the Civic Core.

‍More importantly, the surveys relied upon in this resolution were self-selected online surveys and therefore cannot be treated as statistically representative of either the Chevy Chase community or the broader District of Columbia. As explained to ANC 3/4G by an individual with expertise in survey methodology and statistics, self-selected surveys are inherently subject to significant self-selection bias and cannot produce a meaningful margin of error because respondents voluntarily choose to participate rather than being randomly selected from a defined population. Such surveys tend to overrepresent individuals with strong opinions while excluding many residents who may not have been aware of the survey or motivated to participate.

‍These concerns are not speculative or unique to this discussion. Major national research organizations, including the Pew Research Center and Gallup, have publicly documented the significant limitations and reliability concerns associated with self-selected or “opt-in” surveys. Pew Research Center has stated that self-selected samples produce less accurate results than probability-based methods due to substantial bias, limited public coverage, and the inability of demographic weighting to correct for participation bias. Similarly, Gallup has warned that self-selecting samples pose significant threats to data quality and polling accuracy because participation is not randomly distributed across the population, often underrepresenting lower-income individuals, less educated residents, and certain demographic groups. If nationally respected research organizations like Pew Research Center and Gallup do not rely on self-selected surveys when making meaningful analytical or policy conclusions, the District government should exercise caution before treating such surveys as persuasive guidance for significant decisions, as ANC 3/4G recommends in its resolution.

‍ Accordingly, these surveys should be understood as one source of community feedback—not as a vote of the neighborhood and certainly not as determinative evidence of public consensus. The District cannot and should not make long-term decisions regarding publicly owned land based solely on a limited, non-random sample of respondents from one ANC, particularly where the redevelopment has the potential to deliver benefits that extend beyond ANC 3/4G and serve broader District-wide interests. If the question of housing and civic investment at this site were presented to residents across the District of Columbia, the outcome could differ substantially given the District’s adopted housing goals, ongoing affordability challenges, and citywide demand for modern public facilities and recreational space.

‍The Civic Core is a District Asset, not a Private Neighborhood Amenity

‍The Chevy Chase Civic Core site is publicly owned District land and should not be treated as though it exists solely for the benefit or preferences of immediate neighboring residents. As Commissioner Janell Pagats, Chair of ANC 3C, recently stated in correspondence to ANC 3/4G, the site serves broader public purposes, including functioning as the only community center serving upper Northwest Washington. Residents from across Ward 3 and beyond utilize these facilities and have a legitimate interest in the future of the site. ANC 3C formally submitted comments to the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) supporting housing and broader public investment at the site, reinforcing that there are multiple neighborhood perspectives within Ward 3 regarding the appropriate use of this public asset. The preferences of a single commission area should not override broader District goals related to housing production, affordable housing, public recreation, and equitable stewardship of public land.

‍The role of ANC 3/4G is to provide advisory input, not to function as the sole decision-maker regarding District-owned property with citywide implications. Decisions of this magnitude must balance neighborhood concerns with broader public obligations and priorities established by the District government.

‍The Public Engagement Process Has Been Extensive

‍The resolution implies that DMPED has lacked transparency or meaningful public engagement. In reality, this project has undergone years of public review and engagement through the Comprehensive Plan process, the Chevy Chase Small Area Plan, surplus and disposition hearings, ANC meetings, public meetings hosted by DMPED, and multiple community surveys. The Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, DC Public Library, and DC Department of Parks and Recreation attended a public meeting on February 28, 2026, to introduce the selected development team, Rift Valley.

‍The resolution further suggests that DMPED is disregarding ANC 3/4G, despite the fact that the project is currently in a standard negotiation phase and there are limited finalized details available for additional discussion at this stage. DMPED’s negotiations with the selected developer are a routine and appropriate part of the District’s redevelopment process. The suggestion that ANC 3/4G must review or approve a finalized negotiated package before the District proceeds exceeds the advisory role of the Commission and risks creating procedural expectations that are not required under District law or standard practice. I am also unaware of any comparable circumstance in which the District has granted an ANC this level of authority during active negotiations, and affording such preferential treatment to one ANC would not be equitable.

‍The repeated characterization of the process as insufficiently collaborative appears less rooted in a lack of engagement and more in continued disagreement with the inclusion of housing on the site—a policy direction that has already been established through the District’s various public engagement sessions mentioned above. Continuing to relitigate whether housing should exist at the Civic Core risks delaying more constructive conversations about how to shape the project in a way that best serves Chevy Chase, Wards 3 and 4, and District-wide interests.

‍The Resolution Mischaracterizes the Rift Valley Proposal

‍The resolution dismisses the Rift Valley proposal largely on the basis of first-choice survey rankings while ignoring its broader overall support across respondents’ second and third choices. Additionally, the 2025 survey was never intended to function as a referendum on selecting a developer. The purpose of the 2025 survey was to gather feedback regarding community priorities after residents reviewed the proposals submitted in response to DMPED’s solicitation. The responsibility for evaluating proposals and selecting a development team belongs to District agencies, not the ANC or a neighborhood survey process. The resolution also suggests that changes to the proposal undermine community preferences. The Rift Valley proposal responds positively to the community’s preference for additional outdoor space.

‍The Resolution Applies an Improper Standard to Public Land Use

‍The resolution suggests that residential development on public land must overcome an unusually high threshold of justification. This framing ignores the fact that housing—including affordable and mixed-income housing—is itself a significant public benefit and a legitimate public use of District-owned land.

‍The District of Columbia continues to face documented housing shortages and affordability challenges. Public land presents one of the few opportunities available to create mixed-use developments that simultaneously provide housing, modernized civic facilities, and publicly accessible open space. Public assets must serve the needs of the entire city, not exclusively the preferences of residents living nearer to the site. Stewardship of public land requires balancing local input with broader District-wide obligations and long-term public interests.

‍The Proposal Provides Significant Public Benefits

‍The Rift Valley proposal would deliver approximately 177 new homes, including affordable housing, alongside modernized library and recreation facilities and expanded public open space. The proposal includes substantial investments in an outdoor plaza, recreational areas, civic gathering spaces, outdoor play areas, and gym amenities not available at the current site. This proposal is not a choice between housing and public space. It is an integrated civic investment intended to provide updated public facilities, additional housing opportunities, and improved recreational amenities for residents of Chevy Chase, Wards 3 and 4, and the District of Columbia as a whole.

‍Conclusion

Requesting the removal of housing, delaying the Council’s established surplus and disposition process, or attempting to treat ANC 3/4G survey results as determinative of public consensus would represent a missed opportunity to address important District-wide needs while delivering substantial investment in civic infrastructure.

‍ The Chevy Chase Civic Core is a public asset that belongs to all District residents, not just ANC 3/4G. Its future should be guided by inclusive citywide considerations, not solely by the preferences of a limited subset of survey respondents within a single ANC.

‍ For these reasons, I do not support this resolution and urge the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, the DC Council, Councilmember Matt Frumin, Councilmember Janeese Lewis George, DC Public Library, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and Rift Valley to continue advancing a redevelopment plan that reflects broader District-wide interests, including housing, modernized civic facilities, and expanded outdoor public amenities. The positions reflected in this, and prior ANC resolutions should be considered alongside the many voices across Ward 3 and the District that support a more inclusive vision for the Civic Core site.

‍ ‍

K Simmons 5/13/26 K Simmons 5/13/26

Mid-Week Community Updates and Upcoming Events

Hi Neighbors,

Here’s a quick mid-week update with some upcoming events.

I’m in search of a high school student or resident willing to assist an elderly neighbor with lawn care. This person would need to have their own tools to care for the lawn. Please let me know if you have any recommendations.

DC Department of Transportation

As part of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Pave DC initiative, DDOT will begin milling and paving work on McKinley St NW between Broad Branch Rd NW and Nevada Ave NW beginning on or about May 28, 2026. Weather permitting, roadway work typically takes 3–5 days to complete.

Residents are asked to carefully observe posted “Emergency No Parking” (ENP) signs, which will be installed at least 72 hours before work begins. Vehicles left in posted work zones may be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. For updates on DDOT’s paving schedule, visit www.ddot.dc.gov/pavedc or call (202) 671-2700 with questions.

Upcoming Events:

Thursday, May 14, 2026 7pm: ANC 3/4G SMD 07 resident, Nok Nora, Founder of My Digital Peace LLC is hosting a virtual 60- minute session on how to audit your digital security in one weekend. You can sign up for the session here: How to Run a Personal Security Audit in One Weekend

Just in time for summer, the Department of Parks and Recreation and DC Fire and EMS are hosting a free Babysitting & Child Safety Training on Saturday, May 16, at the Columbia Heights Community Center from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can register your child here: Baby Sitting & Child Safety Training

The DC Office of Paid Family Leave is hosting the 6th Annual DC Citywide Baby Shower on May 16, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at The Capital Turnaround (700 M St. SE). This free, family-friendly event brings together expecting parents and new caregivers from across the District for a day of celebration, community support, and resources. Attendees can expect free baby essentials, giveaways, interactive activities, and access to local organizations offering health, childcare, and parenting information. It’s designed as a one-stop space to connect families with services and support while celebrating new and growing families in DC. Visit 6th Annual DC Citywide Baby Shower » DOES Office of Paid Family Leave

Don’t navigate your building projects alone. As part of Building Safety Month, the DC Department of Buildings (DOB) is hosting the Build with Confidence Workshop on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 12:00–3:30 p.m. at 1100 4th Street SW (with virtual attendance options available). This free session will help homeowners, tenants, and property managers better understand permits, inspections, and basic building safety requirements in the District. DOB experts will also share practical guidance and resources to help you move projects forward with confidence and in compliance. Topics include when permits are required, common inspection and maintenance issues, and key DOB resources. Space is limited—register here: Department of Buildings (DOB) Build with Confidence Workshop

The DC Board of Elections is hosting upcoming webinars to help residents learn how Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) works ahead of the 2026 elections. These sessions are a great opportunity to practice the new voting process, ask questions, and feel more confident about ranking candidates on your ballot. Review the upcoming webinars here: RANKED CHOICE VOTING (RCV) IN DC | District of Columbia Board of Elections

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 5/12/26 K Simmons 5/12/26

Neighborhood Updates & Upcoming Community Meetings

Hi Neighbors,

I hope Mother’s Day brought joy, connection, and love to you all; and for those for whom the day was difficult or bittersweet, I hope you got through it gently and are looking forward to the week ahead. Here are a few updates for your awareness.

ANC Meetings

Monday, May 11th (ANC 3/4G Special Virtual Meeting | ANC3G) at 7pm

GoVocal- Civic Core Project Engagement Page

Commissioner Gosselin and I have launched a GoVocal engagement page for the Civic Core project and would appreciate your feedback. You can access the page here: Folder: ANC 3/4G | Advisory Neighborhood Commissions

DC Department of Transportation (DDOT)

As previously shared, DDOT is updating the Connecticut Avenue Multimodal Safety Improvements that was initiated in December 2019. In March 2026, DDOT provided our ANC with a Notice of Intent regarding changes to Connecticut Ave in our ANC. I provided a letter to DDOT in support of their suggested changes to our single member district (SMD) 05. The changes to our SMD are in phase 1 2026-2027 and highlighted below. You can review my letter to DDOT here or on the ANC website.

Oliver Street

• Add crosswalk on the south leg of the intersection across Connecticut Avenue.

Northampton Street

• Move stop bars to improve visibility.

• Prohibit the left turn from southbound Connecticut Avenue onto eastbound Northampton Street.

• Remove two off-peak parking spaces on Connecticut Avenue to increase visibility. (One on the west side of the intersection, and one on the southeast corner of the intersection).DDOT has removed planned bioretention facilities from our SMD and will instead install landscaped bump-outs for traffic calming (without stormwater features).

Locations:

Chevy Chase Pkwy & Patterson St NW: Completed
Nevada Ave & Livingston St NW: DDOT will begin construction at Livingston St NW and Nevada Ave NW the week ending May 8, 2026, with work lasting about 4–6 weeks to add landscaped green space and improve stormwater management and traffic safety. Work will occur 7:00 AM–7:00 PM, Monday–Saturday, with one lane open but limited parking and access—please follow posted “Emergency No Parking” signs for updates.

DC Water

Join Lead Free DC for a virtual session, “Losing the Lead Without Losing Your Yard,” on May 11 from 7–8 PM to learn what to expect during service line replacement and how yards are restored. The meeting will include a program update, tips for preparing, and a live Q&A—join here: bit.ly/LFDCFY26Q3

Ranked Choice Voting

In 2024, DC voters approved Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), and the DC Council funded its implementation in the FY2026 budget. Starting with the June 2026 primary, voters will be able to rank candidates in eligible races with three or more candidates—learn more and find webinars through the DC Board of Elections by visiting this website: RANKED CHOICE VOTING (RCV) IN DC | District of Columbia Board of Elections.

Chevy Chase Arts Walk

Chevy Chase Arts Walk hosted an event on April 26, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the PNC Bank parking lot. We stopped by and were excited to see two ANC 3/4G SMD 05 residents participating: Kamael (left) whose original paintings are available for purchase here: Available Original Paintings – Kamael Mishra Art, and Merrilee (right), founder of Joy of Glass, Joy of Glass | Discover and Create - Shop Now).

Age Friendly Task Force

Register for the Age-Friendly DC Task Force Meeting on June 10, 2026 (1–3 PM, hybrid) to hear updates on the 2024–2028 Strategic Plan and related accessibility work in partnership with GWU. Join virtually or in person by registering here: https://gwu-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tklJP2VTRXu8VCt11j0Wsg

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 5/11/26 K Simmons 5/11/26

Letter to DDOT

Karrenthya Simmons ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSIONER 3/4G Single Member District (SMD) 05

Dear Theodore Van Houten,

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed safety improvements at Oliver Street and Northampton Street as part of the Connecticut Avenue Multimodal Safety Project. Safety for all road users must be a top priority along the Connecticut Avenue corridor. These intersections are used daily by people walking, biking, and driving, including children, seniors, and individuals with mobility challenges. The proposed changes at Oliver and Northampton Streets will improve visibility and make crossings safer. Enhancements such as improved crosswalks, daylighting, curb extensions, and better sightlines will help drivers more easily see people walking and biking and reducing the potential for collisions. I also strongly support prohibiting the left turn from southbound Connecticut Avenue onto eastbound Northampton Street. This change will reduce cut-through and commuter traffic on residential streets, encouraging drivers to stay on Connecticut Avenue as the primary route into the District. In turn, it will calm traffic and improve safety on neighborhood blocks. These updates align with the District’s Vision Zero commitment and reflect community support, as shown by the joint resolution from ANC 3/4G and ANC 3F, which emphasizes safer intersections, improved walkability, and traffic calming. I urge DDOT to move forward with these improvements to make the neighborhood safer and more livable. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Karrenthya Simmons Commissioner, ANC 3/4G SMD 05

K Simmons 4/23/26 K Simmons 4/23/26

Neighborhood Updates Before the Weekend

Hi Neighbors,

Here are a few quick updates before the weekend!

ANC Meetings

Friday, April 24th (ANC 3/4G Special Virtual Meeting | ANC3G) at 7pm
Monday, April 27th (ANC 3/4G Virtual Meeting) at 7pm.

Friendship Place Annual Walk to End Homelessness

The Friendship Place Walk to End Homelessness is April 25. This annual DC event raises awareness and support for ending homelessness in our community.

All proceeds benefit Friendship Place, a nonprofit with proven programs that help people secure housing, find jobs, and rebuild their lives.

DC Department of Transportation (DDOT)

DDOT has removed planned bioretention facilities from our SMD and will instead install landscaped bump-outs for traffic calming (without stormwater features).

Locations:

Chevy Chase Pkwy & Patterson St NW: Completed
Nevada Ave & Livingston St NW: DDOT will begin construction at Livingston St NW and Nevada Ave NW the week ending May 8, 2026, with work lasting about 4–6 weeks to add landscaped green space and improve stormwater management and traffic safety. Work will occur 7:00 AM–7:00 PM, Monday–Saturday, with one lane open but limited parking and access—please follow posted “Emergency No Parking” signs for updates.
Broad Branch and Nevada: DDOT will begin construction at Broad Branch NW and Nevada Ave NW the week ending May 15, 2026, with work lasting approximately 4–6 weeks to add landscaped green space and improve stormwater management and traffic safety. During construction (7:00 AM–7:00 PM, Monday–Saturday), one lane will remain open, but parking and access will be limited; please follow posted “Emergency No Parking” signs for updates.

DC Water

Ranked Choice Voting

Department of Public Works

Truck Touch 2026 is Saturday, May 2 (8 AM–2 PM) at RFK Stadium, Lot 8—bring the family for a hands-on day with city vehicles, games, and free meals for kids. Reserve your free tickets here.

RFK Community Meeting

Join the April 28 RFK community meeting (6:30–8:00 PM at St. Coletta of Greater Washington 901 Independence Avenue, SE) to review development options and planning updates for the RFK Memorial Stadium campus and share your input. All are welcome—learn more and register online here. Stay up to date by visiting OurRFK.dc.gov.

Age Friendly Task Force

FYI- Please share my ANC email address 3G05@anc.dc.gov and website www.ksimmonsanc.com with neighbors in our SMD or the community so they can receive updates directly from me. I’m no longer able to post on the Chevy Chase listserv as of January 28, 2026, after declining to send a message that was significantly altered, so please rely on my direct communications or website for ANC updates.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 3/30/26 K Simmons 3/30/26

Neighborhood Updates 3/30/2026

Hi Neighbors,

I hope you’re doing well. Below are a few updates for your awareness.

DC Department of Transportation (DDOT)

DDOT had initially planned to place some bioretention facilities in our ANC but has eliminated them from our Single Member District (SMD). DDOT will now construct the originally proposed bioretention beds into hardened landscaped areas that will still function as traffic calming bump outs without the intended stormwater infrastructure. The two locations for them in our SMD are noted below. The notice of intent for the Chevy Chase Parkway & Patterson ST location is attached. DDOT will begin construction during the week ending April 3rd, 2026, and it will take approximately 4-6 weeks to complete. This project will add a landscaped green space along the roadway, including new grass areas and planted sections designed to help improve stormwater management and traffic safety. All work will be conducted from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. DDOT thanks you in advance for your patience and understanding during the construction.

Chevy Chase Pkwy & Patterson St NW – landscaped bump-out for traffic calming (replacing existing striping) (scheduled week of 4/3/2026)
Nevada Ave & Livingston St NW – landscaped bump-outs at intersection (schedule TBD)

The Connecticut Avenue Multimodal Safety Improvement Project was initiated in December 2019. DDOT has conducted data analysis, concept development and evaluation, traffic forecasts, and operations analysis. Here are the upcoming improvements to our SMD.

Phase 1 Improvements: Shorter-Term, anticipated construction dates 2026-2027

Oliver Street (& Connecticut)

• Add crosswalk on the south leg of the intersection across Connecticut Avenue

Northampton Street (& Connecticut)

• Move stop bars to improve visibility

• Prohibit the left turn from southbound Connecticut Avenue onto eastbound Northampton Street

• Remove two off-peak parking spaces on Connecticut Avenue to increase visibility. (One on the west side of the intersection, and one on the southeast corner of the intersection).

Dementia Stories DC

Dementia Stories DC is an initiative by The Dap Project that celebrates the lives of D.C. residents living with dementia and Alzheimer’s while raising awareness about the care, connection, and support families need. Dementia Stories DC is hosting arts and portrait workshops across the city for Washingtonians living with dementia and their caregivers.

The workshops include three components:

Arts-based activities that provide people living with memory loss and their caregivers a meaningful opportunity to connect and learn supportive practices. Workshops will be facilitated by dementia care experts from the George Washington University Institute for Brain Health & Dementia.
Portrait sessions with professional photographers to capture and preserve meaningful moments. Participants will receive a copy of the photograph.
Recording memories honoring their expansive lives and allowing them to shape their own narratives.

Saturday, April 4. 10:30a-12:30p. Chevy Chase Library.

The initiative will culminate in a June public exhibit (Alzheimer’s Awareness Month) featuring portraits, photography from the workshops, and oral histories.

For more information, please visit: www.DementiaStoriesDC.com

WMATA

Revisions to Metro's proposed FY27 Budget means that WMATA has been able to consider additional Metro Bus service improvements in the District, above those originally proposed when the FY27 Budget was first published in December 2025. The additional service improvements are meant to make bus service more frequent & reliable, when and where our customers want to travel.

Before these proposed improvements are finalized by the WMATA Board this spring, Metro is seeking feedback from the public on the proposed service improvements. Please see take the customer survey and the proposed service improvements here FY27 Budget Public Comment - DC Proposals | QuestionPro Survey. The survey will open on Friday, March 27 at 9AM and close on Monday, April 6 at 5PM, and will be posted towmata.com/budget. If implemented, the additional proposed service improvements will impact Metro Bus riders across every ward of the District.

Department of Public Works (DPW)

Spring Services

Spring services will begin the first Monday in April. These services include Street and Alley Cleaning, Grass Cutting & Mowing, and Graffiti Removal. For additional information regarding our Spring Operations see: https://dpw.dc.gov/spring

Street & Alley Collection Division teams will complete any remaining leaf collections during the transition to Spring Services. Residents are encouraged to rake leaves into the tree box area or place them in paper bags and set them out in front of their residence, then submit a Yard Waste Collection 311 service request for pickup.

Mechanical Street Sweeping

Mechanical Street Sweeping has resumed. Vehicles parked during posted Street Sweeping hours will be subject to ticketing and relocation.

Helping Hand Program

DPW offers assistance to community groups that organize Saturday neighborhood clean-up projects through the Helping Hand Program. The program runs seasonally from March 1st to October 1st. Applications must be submitted 2 weeks prior to the event. For more information visit: https://dpw.dc.gov/page/dpw-helping-hand-neighborhood-cleanup-0

Roll Off Days in DC are back for 2026!

Here is your opportunity to bring certain large, non-hazardous materials for disposal to the next Roll Off Day near you. Roll Off Days take place in all 8 wards at locations convenient to you. Find the complete list of events and RSVP at tinyurl.com/RollOffDC. While registration is not required, it is appreciated so that DPW can anticipate attendance: tinyurl.com/RollOffDC. Questions? Call the organizing team at 202-442-8150, 10 am-5 pm, Monday-Friday. Note: Roll Off Days occur in all eight wards and each is open to all DC residents (no matter your ward). Find one happening near you at tinyurl.com/RollOffDC. Please see the complete list of what cannot be accepted here: https://communityaffairs.dc.gov/page/items-not-accepted-roll-events

Mark your calendars — Truck Touch 2026 is rolling in!

On Saturday, May 2, 2026, RFK Stadium’s Lot 8 will rev up with excitement from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM for the District of Columbia’s annual "Truck Touch" celebration — a high-energy, hands-on experience for all ages. Hop in a dump truck, cheer on student EV racers, enjoy games & free lunch for kids. Reserve your spot: DC’s Annual Truck Touch Tickets, Saturday, May 2 from 8 am to 2 pm | Eventbrite

Food Waste Collection Program & Food Waste Drop-Off Sites:

For the latest information about DC DPW’s food waste drop-offs citywide, visit zerowaste.dc.gov/foodwastedropoff.

DC DPW’s Special Waste Collection Events:

DPW Special Waste Collection Events for safe disposal of household hazardous waste, recycling of electronics, and secure document shredding will be conducted twice quarterly. Register for them at tinyurl.com/hhw-register.

For more information on residential special waste, visit the District's Zero Waste

DC DPW’s Special Waste Collection Event has been moved slightly to RFK Stadium’s Lot 8, the entrance is off of Independence Ave SE, through September 2026. Registrations as well as proof of DC residency will be required to enter the event.

REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO PARTICIPATE:
Eventbrite registration is now open for:

Thursday, April 30, 2026, 10 AM - 2 PM, at RFK Parking Lot 8 (2500 Independence Ave SE)
Saturday, May 9, 2026, 8 AM - 2 PM, at RFK Parking Lot 8 (2500 Independence Ave SE)

Eventbrite registration will open soon for the following events:

Saturday, Sep 12, 2026, 8 AM - 2 PM, at RFK Parking Lot 8 (2500 Independence Ave SE)
Thursday, Sep 24, 2026, 10 AM - 2 PM, at RFK Parking Lot 8 (2500 Independence Ave SE)

‍ ‍To accommodate everyone in a safe and timely manner, DPW is now requiring registration to participate in the Special Waste Collection Events District residents can sign up for a 30-minute arrival period, arrive anytime during the period, and a DPW staff member will be there is assist you. There are also walk-up and bike-up tickets available for attendees without vehicles. The nearest metro station is the Stadium-Armory Metro Station.

Please note that the time selected is the arrival window, not necessarily the time of service. Open to DC residents only. Only one ticket is required per vehicle. No entry will be allowed after 2:00 pm. Please bring proof of residency (e.g., driver's license, utility bill, lease agreement) and Eventbrite registration. No bulk trash, construction & demolition waste, or commercial waste will be allowed.

Unified Communication Center UCC:

DPW is committed to delivering efficient and effective services to residents and quickly resolving issues. To ensure smooth communication for everyone, DPW’s leadership team is here to address continual issues or problems that have not been satisfactorily addressed by the UCC. UCC Phone: (202) 673-6833 (Mon – Fri) 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Central Email: dpw@dc.gov.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 2/21/26 K Simmons 2/21/26

Snow Reminder & Upcoming Community Meetings

Hi Neighbors,

With another potential snowstorm on the way, please remember to shovel and salt your sidewalks and alleys. The city does not normally clear alleyways and the last snowstorm I believe was an exception. If you know of a neighbor who may need assistance with shoveling, let me know.

Also, if you notice any potholes on your street, please submit a 311 request with photos, or send the location and pictures to me and I’ll report them. Stay safe!

· The ANC will have its next meeting on Monday, February 23, at 7 pm. The link to register for the meeting is here: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/meeting/register/7Kfk6ICCSL-OJAgy5RS1kQ#/registration.

· On Tuesday, February 24, at 7pm, The Chevy Chase Community Association and the ANC will jointly host a zoom meeting titled “Ranked Choice Voting Explained – Virtual call with the DC Board of Elections.” You can register in advance here.

· DC Water is having a community meeting this Wednesday, February 25, at 7:00 PM where DC Water leadership will provide a comprehensive update on the Potomac Interceptor response, current system status, and next steps in emergency repair and long-term rehabilitation efforts.

Date: Wednesday, February 25, 7:00 PM at: DC Water Headquarters | 1385 Canal Street SE, WDC 20003.

This is your opportunity to hear directly from DC Water officials and technical staff about:

· What occurred

· Immediate response actions taken

· The current repair timeline

· Long-term Capital Improvement Plan commitments

There will also be a dedicated opportunity for community questions and answers. RSVP to events@dcwater.com. If you have any questions you’d like to ask in advance of the meeting, you may send those questions to events@dcwater.com along with your RSVP.

· On Saturday, February 28, 2025 from 12:00-1:30pm at the Chevy Chase Community Center (5601 Connecticut Ave NW), The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) will hold a community meeting regarding the redevelopment of the “Chevy Chase Civic Site” located at 5601 and 5625 Connecticut Avenue NW. The project will deliver a new library, community center, and housing. Community members will meet the redevelopment team, led by Rift Valley Chevy Chase LLC, and learn more about its vision for the property. Attendees will also engage with representatives from DMPED, DC Public Library, and the Department of Parks and Recreation about opportunities to shape the new library and community center. For more information, visit: https://www.dmped.dc.gov/page/chevy-chase-civic-site

K Simmons 2/10/26 K Simmons 2/10/26

Collection Service Update & Wards 3 and 4 DPR Construction Update

Hi Neighbors,

Please see the write ups below about DPW's service collection and DPR's construction update for wards 3 and 4.

===

The Department of Public Works continues working to restore full residential trash, recycling, and food waste collections. We recognize some residents are experiencing missed collections, and we understand how frustrating and disruptive the situation is.

To address these delays, DPW has activated seasonal employees as part of a dedicated escalation protocol. This will allow us to route 311 service requests more quickly, get teams into the field faster, and operate seven days a week. These teams will run newly created escalation routes, focusing on missed trash and recycling pickups.

As this enhanced response continues, residents should keep their cans and household trash at their normal collection point until it is collected. If service is still missed, we encourage residents to submit a 311 request. If a previous request has not been resolved, submitting a new one ensures it is captured in our updated routing system.

For households that are now receiving normal collections, continue to place your cans out on the normal collection schedule. Trash and recycling are no longer being collected together, so only put out recycling cans on your normal recycling collection day.

===

Please join the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) for a virtual community meeting regarding the upcoming capital construction projects coming to the Ward 3 and 4 communities.

Your attendance and feedback are greatly appreciated!

Meeting details:

Date: Thursday, February 12th, 2026, Time: 6:00 PM, Location: Virtual For more information and to RSVP, please visit: https://wardupdates.splashthat.com/

K Simmons 2/8/26 K Simmons 2/8/26

Neighborhood Updates: ANC Meeting, DPW, & Civic Core

Hi Neighbors,

I hope you had a great Sunday and are staying warm. Please see a few updates below.

ANC Meeting Monday, February 9, 2026 @7pm

Our next ANC meeting will be tomorrow, Monday, February 9th at 7pm. Link to the agenda and registration link is here: ANC 3/4G Regular Public Meeting – Virtual Only – February 9, 2026 – 7:00 pm | Advisory Neighborhood Commission 3/4G

Department of Public Works

I am aware that many homes in our SMD missed trash pickup. This has been reported to DPW, and I’m hoping that everyone will have their trash picked up on Monday. If your trash is missed, please make a 311 request for trash pick up and share with me your 311-request number.

DC DPW’s Special Waste Collection Event has been moved slightly and will now take place at RFK Lot 8, entrance off of Independence Ave SE, through March of 2026. Registrations as well as Proof of DC residency will be required to enter the event.
Eventbrite registration is presently available for the following event:

Saturday, March 14, 2026, at RFK Parking Lot 8 (2500 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003)

Chevy Chase Civic Core Site Updates

Below are a few updates related to the Civic Core site. The height of the building is approximately 55 feet, measured from a point on Northampton Street NW. The proposal contemplates a penthouse level that could be 15' in height and contemplates step downs in height toward the rear of the site. The chart below depicts the housing makeup of the units.

Parking: the total number of spaces in the selected proposal is 147. Of that amount, a minimum of 30 spaces will continue to be provided for civic purposes, matching the number of spaces currently available on the site for civic use. All the civic spaces will be accessible to the public and free of charge. Parking spaces designated for other uses, including apartment residents will be separate. The proposal also relocates most on-site parking below ground.

Reminder: DCPL 23,500-square-foot library and a 21,600-square-foot community center. Design guidelines for a new library were set at 23,000 and 21,000 for the new community center. DCPL and DPR will lead a community engagement process to inform the design and programming of the site’s civic uses. The ANC is still working on stakeholder meeting with DMPED, the Developer, DCPL, and DPR.

Lafayette-Pointer Erosion Project- Community Walkthrough – February 9, 2026, 3pm

Please join the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the DC Department of General Services (DGS) and other DC government agencies for a walk-through of Lafayette-Pointer Park.

Date: Monday, February 9, 2026, 3pm, Location: Meet in front of the Lafayette-Pointer Recreation Center, 5900 33rd Street, NW

For additional information about the project including scope and budget, please visit: https://dgs.dc.gov/page/lafayette-pointer-park-erosion-control.

To RSVP for event and to sign up for updates about this project please visit: http://dpr.dc.gov/stakeholder

Remembering Mr. Benab

Please join the Lafayette community with honoring Mr. Afsheen Benab at a Remembrance Gallery. This will be a time to honor, reflect, and celebrate his amazing life. Stop by to view photos, memories, and reflections that capture Mr. Benab’s lasting impact at Lafayette and the community.

Monday, February 9, 2026
4:00–6:00 p.m.
Lafayette Elementary School Gymnasium

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 1/23/26 K Simmons 1/23/26

Snow Preparedness and A Few More Updates

Hi Neighbors,

I’m looking forward to the snow and wanted to send a quick reminder to please shovel and salt your sidewalks.

The next ANC meeting is Monday, January 26th at 7pm. You an review the agenda and register at this link: ANC 3/4G Regular Public Meeting – Virtual Only – January 26, 2026 – 7:00 pm | Advisory Neighborhood Commission 3/4G

Review Councilmember Frumin’s newsletter here: mattfruminward3.com/newsroom

Today at 10am, Mayor Bowser will hold a press conference about the coming snowstorm. The DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment will provide a live feed of this event. To view the event, visit mayor.dc.gov/live (https://mayor.dc.gov/multimedia/mayor-bowsers-live-event), tune in on Channel 16 (DCN), or watch on Mayor Bowser’s Facebook or X.

Some of our friends and neighbors may need a helping hand clearing sidewalks. The Snow Team Heroes are volunteers who help clear snow for seniors and residents with disabilities, access, or functional needs.

We need heroes in ward 3 to help vulnerable residents. If you volunteer, DC will match you nearby and provide the supplies you need to successfully support our neighbors!

How You Can Help:

Please sign up at snowteam.dc.gov to become a Snow Team Hero. Your support is vital to our success this weekend.

Important Details for Volunteers:

Orientation: After sign-up, you will be sent an orientation video to review before deployment.

Supplies: Shovels and additional Snow team supplies will be available for pickup at Serve DC Headquarters located at 2235 Shannon Pl SE or 899 North Capitol St NE, from now until Friday, January 23rd, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Scope: Please note that Snow Heroes assist with residential snow removal; we do not service public areas or treat ice.

Let’s work together to help our neighbors!

DC School Lottery is Open

The My School DC lottery for School Year 2026–27 is now open, with deadlines of February 2, 2026 for grades 9–12 and March 2, 2026 for grades Pre-K3–8. Families can apply to up to 12 schools at www.myschooldc.org.

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 1/17/26 K Simmons 1/17/26

Civic Core Update & More

Hi Neighbors,

I hope this newsletter finds you well as we continue into the new year. Here are some key community updates.

Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED)

Friday, January 16, 2025, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) announced the selection of Rift Valley Chevy Chase, LLC (Rift Valley) to redevelop the Chevy Chase Civic Site. You can read the press release here: Mayor Bowser Selects Proposal to Deliver New Community Center, Library, and Housing at Chevy Chase Civic Site in Ward 3 | mayormb

As the ANC Commissioner for where this project is located, I am committed to working closely with residents, DMPED, and the developer, and other stakeholders to ensure this site becomes a space the community can truly come together around. I want to make sure the community knows that there are several important strengths of the selected developer worth highlighting. The project exceeds the space requirements outlined in the RFP for both the DC Public Library (DCPL) and the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). It also delivers twice the amount of outdoor space, along with underground and paved on-site parking, a significant benefit for the community. In addition, the proposal includes up to 30 percent affordable housing within the planned 177 residential units.

After the selection was announced, I spoke with several residents and want to collect more feedback. Please take a moment to complete this short survey: Civic Core Developer Selection Survey

Thefts from Autos

There has been an increase in thefts from autos in our neighborhood. Please see the links below to reduce the risk of thefts from autos. Auto Theft Prevention | mpdc, Protecting Your Vehicle_translations (ALL).pdf and Safety and Crime Prevention | mpdc

21st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade

Monday, January 19 at 11 am, community members are encouraged to walk in this annual celebration honoring the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. You can learn more about the walk here.

Remembering Mr. Benab

Please join the Lafayette Elementary School community in honoring Mr. Afsheen Benab at a Remembrance Gallery. This will be a time to honor, reflect, and celebrate his amazing life. Stop by to view photos, memories, and reflections that capture Mr. Benab’s lasting impact on our school and community on Thursday, January 29, 2026, 4:00–6:00 p.m. Lafayette Elementary School Gymnasium. All are welcome to come together in gratitude and remembrance. Please bring a photo ID and enter through the Northampton Street gymnasium entrance.

The Lafayette Home and School Association also announced that in Spring 2026, the Lafayette Elementary School gymnasium will be formally dedicated in honor of Mr. Afsheen Benab, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Afsheen Benab Memorial Fund, which will be operated by the Lafayette HSA to install the gymnasium dedication and ensure all children have access to after school activities and sports for years to come. If you’re interested in donating, please see the link here: Remembering Mr. Benab - Lafayette Home & School Association Donation Link.

Department of Behavioral Health (D - Homeless Services & Housing Resources

The Department of Behavioral Health’s Homeless Services and Housing Resources website provides information and support for individuals and families in D.C. seeking emergency shelter, housing assistance, and related services. You can review the site here: (https://dhs.dc.gov/page/homeless-services-housing)

Access Helpline available 24/7 – 1-888-7WE-HELP (1-888-793-4357)
Community Response Team (CRT) 24/7 – 202-673-6495

Department of Public Works (DPW)

Holiday Trees & Greenery Collection: DPW will collect holiday trees and greenery from January 2 through February 28 from DPW-serviced homes for composting—please place items at the curb (not in food waste bins). If items are not collected within 7 days, residents may call 311 and request “Christmas Tree Removal – Seasonal.” After February 28, trees and greenery should be disposed of with regular trash and recycling.

Residents may also drop off items Monday–Friday at:

Bryant Street Sweep Shop (201 Bryant St NW), 8 AM–3 PM
Guy Mason Recreation Center (3600 Calvert St NW), 8 AM–4 PM
DPW Salt Storage Facility (2700 South Capitol St SE), 8 AM–2:30 PM

For more information on Holiday Reduce & Reuse Tips, please visit Zero Waste DC website.

DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) News You Can Use: January 2026

Check out the DMV’s January newsletter here: DC DMV News You Can Use: January 2026

DC School Lottery is Open

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov

www.ksimmonsanc.com

K Simmons 12/30/25 K Simmons 12/30/25

ANC 3/4 SMD 05 Community Updates 12.30.2025

Hi Neighbors,

I hope you’re doing well as we head into the final days of 2025. Wishing you all the best in 2026 and beyond!

DC Water

For residents of La Reine and Legation House, please note that DC Water has scheduled a water shutoff on January 8, 2026, lasting approximately 9 hours (9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.). The water shut off is to complete sewer rehabilitation work.

Update on Clean Rivers Impervious Area Measurement and Implementation Pause

DC Water has decided to pause the implementation of the Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC). See the note below sent on behalf of David L. Gadis, CEO and General Manager to Community Stakeholders/ANC Commissioners.

I am writing to provide an update regarding recent customer notifications related to updated Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC) measurements and to outline DC Water’s next steps.

The Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge was established in 2009 as part of the funding framework for DC Water’s Clean Rivers Project, a federally mandated, long-term infrastructure initiative to significantly reduce combined sewer overflows into the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers and Rock Creek, and to improve water quality across the District. The program relies on deep storage tunnels, diversion facilities, and green infrastructure to capture and treat wastewater during rain events.

Impervious area measurements, which form the basis for CRIAC, were last comprehensively updated in 2016. The most recent systemwide review was completed using updated aerial imagery in March 2025. The goal of this review was to ensure the most accurate and equitable billing for customers based on current property conditions. As expected, the updated measurements resulted in both increases and decreases across properties.

While the measurement process itself followed long-standing program requirements, we recognize that the recent customer notifications did not provide sufficient detail, context, or advance notice, particularly given that some customers experienced significant increases. We understand that for many residents, the primary concern is the impact on their bills, and we acknowledge that we should have engaged earlier and more comprehensively with both customers and elected officials before issuing the notices.

In response to this feedback, DC Water has paused implementation of the updated CRIAC measurements while we strengthen our communications and outreach approach. Over the coming months, we will undertake an expanded engagement effort that includes:

Direct outreach to customers most significantly impacted by the updated measurements
Briefings and coordination with Council offices and Advisory Neighborhood Commissions in affected wards
Public webinars and community information sessions to explain the Clean Rivers Project, CRIAC methodology, and impervious area measurements
Enhanced website content and customer tools, including clearer explanations, FAQs, and visual resources
Expanded education on how impervious surfaces affect stormwater runoff, as well as stormwater management options that may help customers manage future costs

Our goal is to ensure that customers and stakeholders have the information, time, and opportunity needed to understand what changed, why it changed, and what options may exist before any future implementation occurs.

We appreciate the feedback you and your constituents have shared and value your partnership as we work to improve our outreach and engagement. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you would like additional information or a briefing.

DOEE Grant Opportunity
DOEE is offering grant funding to help private fleets replace older diesel medium- and heavy-duty vehicles with electric alternatives. Applications are due February 9, 2026, with an information session on January 7, 2026. You can learn more here: Private Fleet Diesel Electrification and Low-NOx | doee

Community Meeting: Lafayette-Pointer Park
DPR, DGS, and DCPS invite the community to a meeting on future stormwater management at Lafayette-Pointer Park.

Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026, 6:00–7:30 p.m., Lafayette-Pointer Recreation Center, 5900 33rd Street NW

For more information and to RSVP, please visit https://lafayette.splashthat.com/

For additional information about the project, please visit: https://dgs.dc.gov/page/lafayette-pointer-park-erosion-control.

To sign up for updates about this project please visit: http://dpr.dc.gov/stakeholder.

Department of Public Works (DPW)

Section A: Leaf Collection Begins Monday, January 5, 2026

The second pass for Leaf Collection in Section A (our neighborhood) will begin on Monday, January 5, 2026. Please have your leaves raked to the tree box or curbside by Sunday, January 4, 2026. Find raking tips and more information at dpw.dc.gov/leaf.

Holiday Trees & Greenery Collection: DPW will collect holiday trees and greenery from January 2 through February 28 from DPW-serviced homes for composting and mulch production—please place items at the curb, not in food waste bins. If Holiday trees and greenery are not picked up 7 days after being placed, curbside, residents can call 311 and make a “Christmas Tree Removal - Seasonal” service request. After February 28, 2026, holiday trees and greenery should be placed at the normal point of collection for trash and recycling. Holiday trees and greenery will be collected as space permits in the truck.

Residents may also use designated drop-off locations, at three locations, Monday through Friday:

Bryant Street Sweep Shop (201 Bryant Street NW), 8 AM – 3 PM
Guy Mason Recreation Center (3600 Calvert St NW), 8 AM – 4 PM
DPW Salt Storage Facility (2700 South Capitol St., SE), 8 AM – 2:30 PM

For more information on Holiday Reduce & Reuse Tips, please visit Zero Waste DC website.

DC Snow Safety Tips: The District Snow Team offers guidance to help residents prepare for and stay safe during winter weather, including clearing snow from sidewalks within eight daylight hours after a storm, using safe shoveling practices, dressing warmly, and having emergency supplies ready. It also highlights help available for older adults and people with disabilities and recommends precautions to avoid cold-related injuries and hazards. The DC Snow team provided Commissioner Sherman with a snow blower to assist residents with snow removal. Please reach out to him at 3G02@anc.dc.gov or me if you need snow removal assistance.

Reminder: DC law requires residential and commercial property owners to remove snow/ice from the sidewalks around their property within the first eight hours of daylight after a storm ends. Otherwise, commercial property owners may be fined $150, and residential property owners may be fined $25. Please remember to remove snow and ice from your property so that people can have safe passage while walking.

Warming Centers: From November through March, the District guarantees access to shelter during hypothermic weather to protect people experiencing homelessness. Outreach teams conduct wellness checks and connect people to shelter; call 202-399-7093 or 311 if someone needs help, or 911 in an emergency.

DC School Lottery is Open

In Case You Missed It: Age-Friendly DC 2025 Task Force Bi-Annual Meeting

The Age-Friendly DC 2025 Bi-Annual Meeting highlighted progress on the 2024–2028 Strategic Plan, shared results from the 2025 Livability Survey, and previewed AARP-funded 2026 Block-by-Block Walks in Wards 5, 7, and 8. Residents can watch the meeting recording here. The virtual 2026 Age-Friendly DC Task Force Bi-Annual Meetings will be held Wednesday, June 10, 2026 – 1:00 to 3:00 pm Wednesday, December 2, 2026 – 1:00 to 3:00 pm. You can email rebecca.dooley@dc.gov if you would like to join the Age-Friendly DC newsletter.

Regards,

Karrenthya Simmons

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

3/4G, SMD 05

3G05@anc.dc.gov