OFFICE OF VINCENT C.

GRAY
CHAIRMAN, COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Takiyah “T.N.” Tate

April 2, 2021 ttate@dccouncil.us | (202) 705.2980

Councilmember Vincent C. Gray Proposes Use of Eminent Domain to

Create an Urban Park and More Green Space in Ward 7
Washington D.C. – Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent C. Gray filed a measure to authorize the
Mayor to exercise eminent domain in Downtown Ward 7 for the purpose of creating green space.

Urban green spaces, such as parks and playgrounds, promote mental and physical health.
Outdoor recreational facilities play an important role in reducing morbidity and mortality in
urban residents by providing stress alleviation, promoting social cohesion, supporting physical
activity, and reducing exposure to air pollutants, especially in historically underserved
communities.

The intended location of this urban park, Lot 0807 in Square 5044, is centrally located in
Downtown Ward 7 within walking distance of public transit and is easily accessible to all Ward
7 residents. The parcel’s 14,157 square feet is of sufficient size to provide greenspace, recreation
areas, and space for community gatherings.

Councilmember Gray issued the following statement:

“Downtown Ward 7 is seeing considerable redevelopment. The immediate area will benefit from
a mixed-use development plan that increases residential density as well as create opportunities
for more dining and retail offerings. However, with all the development now anticipated it is
important to create community-accessible green space. The building currently on the land in
question is slated for demolition. We have the opportunity to create a public park in Downtown
Ward 7 and the time to move forward is now," said Gray.

"Eminent domain has been used for projects in Ward 7, such as the Skyland Town
Center, and elsewhere in the city. Eminent domain is in our toolbox for exactly these situations,
to further advance economic development, retail and quality of life amenities," said Gray.

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