About the Initiative
The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), the General Services Administration (GSA), the National Park Service (NPS), and the District of Columbia Government formed an Executive Committee and launched the Pennsylvania Avenue Initiative to consider near- and long-term improvements to the Avenue.
Pennsylvania Avenue is one of Washington’s–and the world's–most recognized streets, physically and symbolically connecting the U.S. Capitol with the White House. As a home to federal headquarters, businesses, museums, residents, civic activities, and lively downtown events, it plays a significant economic and cultural role in the capital city. A major redevelopment effort led by the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation (PADC) from the 1970s to the 1990s shaped the design and character of the street and surrounding neighborhood.
Today, the Avenue retains a strong civic identity and character, but does not provide a consistently engaging experience. With public input and the guidance of the Executive Committee, the Initiative will improve the Pennsylvania Avenue experience.