Poplar Point Plan Alternatives

The National Park Service and the District of Columbia are requesting input from the public on three alternatives

Alternative A: Greenway Connections

Greenway Connections emphasizes physical connections across the site and into Anacostia. This concept links the wetlands with the Anacostia River and the 11th Street Bridge Park. It also places a cultural use and memorial at the point, creating a dynamic gathering space. Additionally, it establishes a focal point along the waterfront, with diagonal roads oriented toward it to enhance accessibility and visibility.

The potential open space programming for Alternative A includes a native meadow area, educational wetlands, waterfront park, water taxi terminal, neighborhood parks and general playfields.

Several components are being proposed to improve access to Poplar Point and connect it with historic Anacostia. Improved access will be provided by enhancing existing roadways that cross under 295, such as Marion Barry Avenue and Howard Road, as well as roadways that extend from the South Capitol Street oval.

In addition, another potential connection could a possible extension of W Street over 295 as a greenway; however, such a roadway overpass would need extensive study with respect to feasibility, functionality, timing, and funding.


Alternative B: Central Wetlands

Central Wetlands Alternative includes preserving the wetlands at the center of the site and surrounded by development. This concept strengthens connections between the wetlands, the Anacostia River, and the point while introducing mixed-use development at the point. Additionally, it establishes a continuous stretch of development along the shoreline and provides an activated roadway connection to Anacostia, therefore framing the central
wetlands on all sides.

The potential open space programming for Alternative B includes a native meadow area, educational wetlands, waterfront park, water taxi terminal, neighborhood parks, general playfields, and river walk.

Alternative C: Anchor Use on Point

Anchor Use on the Point Alternative, envisions a wellness anchor at the point. It frames the wetlands with surrounding development and fronts the wetlands while reinforcing the waterfront as a place of respite.

The potential open space programming for Alternative C includes a native meadow area, educational wetlands, waterfront park, water taxi terminal, neighborhood parks, general playfields, river walk, and dedicated outdoor space for the anchor use.

Potential Sites for NPS Facilities Relocation

A requirement of this project is to provide for the relocation of existing facilities and related properties of the NPS. These facilities include U.S. Park Police (USPP) Anacostia Operations Facility (AOF), USPP Anacostia Aviation Facility, and National Capital Parks-East (NACE) Headquarters. Potential sites have been identified for the relocation of these facilities. The potential sites include Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Option 2 and Option 3. The Environmental Assessment (EA) will include an analysis of the relocation of these facilities.

Topic Questions:

1. Framing the Wetlands: Would you rather frame the wetlands with a wooded buffer, recreation, or development?

2. Anacostia River Waterfront: Which waterfront experience would you prefer?

3. Open Space + Commemorative Works: In addition to the wetlands and waterfront experiences, what kind of open space would you like to see as part of development opportunities in the eastern portion of the site?

4. Connection to Existing Community: Which type of potential connection to the existing community would you prefer?

5. The Point: What kind of use or activity would you like to see at the point?

6. Alternative A: What do you like most about Alternative A?

7. Alternative B: What do you like most about Alternative B?

8. Alternative C: What do you like most about Alternative C?

Document Content:

March 18, 2025 Public Meeting Boards   (26.5 MB, PDF file) Disclaimer: Links within the above document(s) were valid as of the date published. Note: Some of the files may be in PDF format and can be viewed using the Adobe Acrobat Reader software. You may download a free copy of from Adobe Systems.