Public Space for All? Examining the Role of Privatization, Visions of Redevelopment, and BID Governance in Capitol Riverfront
Open AccessThe redevelopment and rebranding of the neighborhood formerly known as "Navy Yard" began with a private-public partnership on federal land in one of the first attempts at creating a mixed-income community. In 2003, Forest City Washington won the contract for 42 acres of the Southeast Federal center for redevelopment, this was followed by the formation of a Business Improvement District (BID) in 2007, and the opening of Nationals Park in 2008. Since then, the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood has grown to house 10,500 residents, over 60 restaurants, and 35,000 daytime employees. The BID has been acclaimed for its public spaces; over 26,000 people attended their public events in 2019. This study analyzes the history of the redevelopment of the nearly 50-acre area, assesses the plans for redevelopment, assesses the costs and benefits of BID governance, and examines consequences of privately held public spaces. By using interviews and archival research, this research gives an overview of the development of the area and issues of privatization and securitization. It concludes that although many of the visions of redevelopment were achieved through a mixed-use waterfront redevelopment, there were many visions overlooked, especially in the form of affordable housing and the consequences generated by the privatization of public space.
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