News Room

Modified District Government Services for Independence Day

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 15:16:53 +0000

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

(Washington, DC) – On Friday, July 4, District Government will observe Independence Day. While some services will be affected, many District employees will continue serving to maintain essential District operations.

What's Open on Friday, July 4

Access to Emergency Shelter

All low-barrier shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round. The following low-barrier shelters are open 24 hours and will remain open all day on Friday, July 4. 

New York Avenue Men’s Shelter (1355 New York Avenue NE)
801 East Men's Shelter (2722 MLK Jr. Avenue SE)
Adams Place Men’s Shelter (2210 Adams Place NE)
Emery Men’s Shelter (1725 Lincoln Road NE)
Pat Handy Women’s Shelter (810 5th Street NW)
Harriet Tubman Women’s Shelter (1910 Massachusetts Avenue SE)
Living Life Alternatives LGBTQ+ Shelter (400 50th Street SE)

Individuals and families seeking accessible transportation to homeless services should call the DC Shelter Hotline at (202) 399-7093, between the hours of 8. to 12 am., or the Mayor’s Citywide Call Center at 311 at any time of the day or night.

Zoe’s Doors Youth Drop-In Center for residents experiencing homelessness, located at 900 Rhode Island Avenue NE, offers a safe place for youth 24 hours a day and will be open on Friday, July 4.

DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH): Residents facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol/drug use concerns, or just need to talk as well as those who are concerned about family members/friends can call 988 anytime to talk with a trained, caring crisis counselor for free, confidential support. The following services also are open on Friday, July 4:  

The DC Stabilization Center, located at 35 K Street NE, is a 24/7 safe place for people experiencing a substance use disorder crisis to get the help they need and is open to individuals 18 years and older at no-cost, and with no insurance necessary.
The Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) provides 24/7 emergency psychiatric services and extended observation beds for individuals 18 years of age and older by calling (202) 673-9319.
The Community Response Team (CRT) provides 24/7 support to adults who are experiencing emotional, psychiatric or substance use vulnerabilities, including on-the-spot assessment and referral to behavioral health care. The response team is available by calling (202) 673-6495.

The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Outdoor parks, playgrounds, athletic courts, and fields will be open. All adult outdoor pools are open from 10 am– 6 pm. Splash parks are open 10 am– 6 pm. Check DPR’s real-time information website to updates on outdoor pool and splash park operations. All previously permitted events on these outdoor spaces will take place as scheduled.    

Modified Service Adjustments

The DC Department of Public Works (DPW) will not collect household trash, recycling and food waste collection on Friday, July 4; collections will slide to Saturday, July 5.

The Benning Road Transfer Station is closed for renovations until further notice.

The Fort Totten Transfer Station will be closed to the public on Friday, July 4. All services will resume on Saturday, July 5 for bulk trash and recycling.   

Construction:

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will suspend construction and work zones for non-emergency work in roadways, alleys, and sidewalks within the District’s right of way. This includes manhole access and construction-related deliveries. Approved construction activities may resume Saturday, July 5 during permitted work hours.

Lane Restrictions:
DDOT will suspend reversible lane operations citywide on Friday, July 4 on the following:

Canal Road between Chain Bridge and Foxhall Road NW
Rock Creek Parkway (controlled by the National Park Service)
16th Street NW between Irving Street and Arkansas Avenue NW

The DC Department of Buildings (DOB) will not allow construction on Friday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day without an issued after-hours permit. Construction activity that proceeds on the holiday without this required permit will result in a Stop Work Order. Illegal construction reports can be made using the Illegal Construction Inspection Request Form, or afterhours by calling 311. To learn more about the authorized construction hours and how to apply for an after-hours permit, please view the following link: After Hours Permit. DOB offers many online services, tools, and resources, enabling customers to conduct business 24 hours per day, seven days per week.    

Parking Enforcement:

All parking enforcement will be suspended on Friday, July 4, except for Streetcar ticketing and towing, enforcement around National Stadium for the baseball game and also for multiple 4th of July parades including downtown, the Palisades, and Takoma Park. Parking enforcement will resume on Saturday, July 5.

DC Streetcar will operate on the standard schedule Friday, July 4. Riders can visit dcstreetcar.com for the latest updates on routes and schedules.

What's Closed on Friday, July 4 

DC Public Schools (DCPS)  remain closed for Summer Break. Summer school programs will be closed on Friday, July 4 and will resume on Monday, July 7.

DC Public Library (DCPL) locations will be closed on Friday, July 4. For more information on available Library programs, visit dclibrary.org or download the Library’s app.

Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) recreation centers, community centers, indoor aquatic centers, and offices will be closed on Friday, July 4.   

The Department of Human Services Economic Security Administration Service Centers will be closed on Friday, July 4.

The Virginia Williams Family Resource Center, the central intake office for all families in the District of Columbia seeking assistance with their housing needs, will be closed on Friday, July 4.
The DC Health & Wellness Center (77 P Street NE) will be closed on Friday, July 4.

DC Health’s Vital Records Division will be closed on Friday, July 4.

DC Health’s Licensing and Renewal Division will be closed Friday, July 4 with the exception of the online license applications system which will be available at doh.force.com/dchealthrenewals/s/portal-page.

All Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) locations will be closed in observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 4. All locations will reopen Saturday, July 5. Many of DC DMV's services will remain available online or via the agency's free app.

The Department of Employment Services Navigation Call Center and all-American Job Centers will be closed on Friday, July 4.. Residents are encouraged to file unemployment insurance claims online at does.dc.gov.

The Sasha Bruce Youth Drop-In Centers for District residents experiencing homelessness will be closed on Friday, July 4.

The Latin American Youth Center Youth Drop-In Center for District residents experiencing homelessness, located at 3045 15th Street NW, will be closed on Friday, July 4.

The Adams Place Day Center for District residents experiencing homelessness, located at 2210 Adams Place NE, will be closed on Friday, July 4.

The 801 E Day Center for District residents experiencing homelessness, located at 2722 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, will be closed on Friday, July 4.

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Statement on June 2025 Revenue Estimates

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 21:32:17 +0000

Friday, June 27, 2025

(Washington, DC) – Today, the DC Government released the revised revenue estimates for the District of Columbia Budget and Financial Plan. The revenue forecast remains relatively unchanged across the financial plan compared to the February estimates. The Fiscal Year 2025 revenues were revised upward on a one-time basis largely due to higher-than-expected income tax collection, and the Chief Financial Officer has indicated these funds will be set aside for year-end spending pressures and year-end closing needs. In response, Mayor Bowser released the following statement:

“We knew when putting together the FY26 budget that our priority as a city must be on growth, and the estimates confirm we have our focus in the right places. We’re seeing some positive data – more residents employed, a slightly lower office vacancy rate, and strong financial reserves. Now, we are balancing these positive indicators with the fact that there’s still a great level of uncertainty ahead. We know, unfortunately, that the biggest impacts of the DOGE cuts won’t hit us until the fall. And we also know that we won’t be able to tax and spend our way out of this. That is why the Growth Agenda is so important – so that we can generate new economic activity, create new jobs for DC residents, and bring in new revenues to fund city services and programs. If we can do that – if we can evolve with a rapidly changing economy – we’ll keep our economy resilient, our finances strong, and our city the best in the world.”

Mayor Bowser Invites Residents to Celebrate First-Ever Capitol Hill Open Streets Event, Highlights FY26 Budget Investments in a Multimodal DC

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:08:10 +0000

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Open Streets Returns on Saturday, June 28 to Capitol Hill

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the first-ever Open Streets Capitol Hill on Saturday, June 28 from 9 am to 3 pm. Open Streets transforms District roads into vibrant, car-free spaces that encourage walking, biking, playing, and community connection. This Saturday’s event will be held on North Carolina Avenue SE, East Capitol Street, and Massachusetts Avenue SE in Ward 6, between 6th Street SE and 17th Street SE, creating more than one mile of open roadway in the heart of Capitol Hill.

Open Streets will feature free, family-friendly activities focused on health, safety and community engagement, with programming led by local businesses, community organizations and District agencies. Attendees can enjoy fitness classes, bike maintenance clinics, Double Dutch, foam parties, live music and more. Eastern Market will operate its usual weekend market and has partnered with DDOT to showcase additional vendors along the route.

“We are excited to bring the community together to experience our streets in a fun and safe way as we take over Capitol Hill for the first time in Open Streets DC history,” said DDOT Director, Sharon Kershbaum. “We are thankful for Mayor Bowser’s support in this initiative as we engage local businesses, educate about transportation safety and get moving together across the community.”

The event will take place rain or shine. Residents are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring their bike, scooter or skates to experience the variety of activities on the route.

Open Streets underscores Mayor Bowser’s commitment to building safer, more connected neighborhoods. Over the past decade, the Bowser Administration has built 55 miles of bike lanes—including 35 miles of protected lanes—added 13 miles of dedicated bus lanes, expanded the trail network to 67 miles and nearly doubled the number of Capital Bikeshare stations. The FY26 Budget: Grow DC builds on that progress with historic multimodal investments across all eight wards, from $76 million in additional WMATA funding to $73 million for new pedestrian and bike trails. Learn more at budget.dc.gov.

Find more information about the event at openstreets.dc.gov.

Mayor Bowser Highlights Free, Safe and Fun Summer Opportunities for DC Youth, Encourages Families to Stay Cool During Extreme Heat

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 19:36:02 +0000

Monday, June 23, 2025

FY26 Budget, Grow DC, Expands Access to Camps, Learning, and Fun for 17,000+ Students Across All Eight Wards

(Washington, DC) – Today, as thousands of District youth start summer camps, summer learning programs and the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP), Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME) are reminding families that it’s not too late to register for free, enriching summer activities across all eight wards. From STEM camps and library programming to field trips, pool parties and evening hangouts, the District is offering a wide range of activities for children and teens this summer. With the District currently under an Extreme Heat Alert through Wednesday, June 25, families are also encouraged to visit heat.dc.gov for resources on how to stay safe and cool this summer.

“We want every young person in DC to have a summer filled with opportunities to grow, connect and have fun,” said Mayor Bowser. “We make big investments in summer programming because we know how important it is to our kids and to the community. With most.dc.gov, we’ve made it easier to find and register for out of school time programs, and now we’re spreading the word to families that there are still free opportunities available for the summer. And this week, as our young people are out and about, we're reminding everyone to stay safe in the heat by staying hydrated, being mindful of time spent outdoors, and taking advantage of our pools, spray parks, and cooling centers.”

This summer, thousands of free program slots are available through a coordinated effort led by DME and supported by DCPS, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the DC Public Library, and the Office of Out of School Time Grants and Youth Outcomes. To help families navigate their options, the District launched the Out of School Time DC (MOST-DC) portal earlier this year. The user-friendly site allows parents to search and register for programs based on location, age, school, or cost, and thousands of families have already used it to plan their summer.

“Our job is to make opportunity easy to access and hard to miss,” said Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn. “This summer, we’re proud to offer not just programs but experiences that bring learning to life and meet the needs of every student, in every neighborhood.”

What’s Happening This Summer

A wide variety of free programs are still open for registration, including but not limited to:

DCPS Middle School Summer Learning: Offers rising sixth through ninth grade students a variety of engaging academic and non-academic programs, from STEAM enrichment and math camps to career exploration and outdoor adventures.
DC Public Library’s Discover Summer: Hundreds of events available through August 31, including author visits, museum partnerships, the Know Your Power teen art contest, mobile programming and prize giveaways.
Late Night Hype and Late Night Drip: DPR’s weekly evening programming includes music, games, and extended pool hours for teens.
Junior Lifeguard Academy: Young people ages 13 to 17 can start their lifeguarding journey by gaining the skills needed to enter comprehensive lifeguard training. Meets twice a week for four weeks.
DPR Youth Field Trips: Free Saturday drop-off experiences for ages 7–12, including transportation, lunch and fun activities.
Roving Leaders Day: Annual day of games, moon bounces, biking, live animals, water games and much more taking place on Saturday, July 26.
Weekly Veggie Giveaways: DPR’s Communal Farms allow kids and community members to volunteer, participate in hands-on educational opportunities and receive free veggies four times a week at three locations across DC.
Fitness in DC Gardens & Parks: Taking place monthly on the second Wednesday at DPR parks and gardens. Fitness sessions include yoga, Zumba and meditation.

In addition to the programs listed above, families can explore even more DPR activities and events, including fitness classes, movies and neighborhood celebrations, at dprevents.com and dprprograms.com. A full calendar of citywide summer festivals and special events is available at summer.dc.gov/summerevents. For more DCPS-specific summer opportunities, families are encouraged to check in with their child’s school and visit most.dc.gov.

Some of the most popular summer options filled quickly this year, including DPR’s Camp Riverview, an overnight camp in Scotland, Maryland, featuring horseback riding, ATVs and fishing; DPR Boost Camps for tweens ages 11–13, offering hands-on experiences in robotics and journalism; the DC Summer Swim League; and DCPS Summer Acceleration Academies for students in grades K–4, along with high school original credit courses that help students get ahead.

In addition to camps and learning opportunities, families can beat the summer heat at DC’s free pools and spray parks, operated by DPR:

Indoor pools are available year-round across the city. Visit dpr.dc.gov/indoorpools for a full list of locations and hours.
Outdoor pools are now operating six days a week on individual schedules. For locations and schedules, visit dpr.dc.gov/outdoorpools.
Spray parks across the city are operating daily. Some spray parks may be offline for scheduled weekly maintenance. To find the closest spray park, visit dpr.dc.gov/sprayparks.

Visit heat.dc.gov to find information about the District’s heat emergency plan, locate cooling centers, and access important safety tips and available services. To stay informed about heat alerts and other emergency notifications, sign up for AlertDC at alert.dc.gov.

The Mayor’s FY26 Budget, Grow DC, invests in both classroom learning and year-round enrichment for students. The budget includes $2.8 billion for DCPS and public charter schools, $270 million for teacher pay raises, and $2 billion to modernize school buildings across the city. It also includes $27 million to support out-of-school time grants, ensuring more than 17,000 students can access free, high-quality afterschool and summer programs that keep learning going all year long. Learn more at budget.dc.gov.

Mayor Bowser Activates Heat Alert for Sunday, June 22, Extreme Heat Alert for Monday, June 23 through Wednesday, June 25

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 22:01:34 +0000

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Residents and visitors urged to exercise caution, avoid overheating, and check on vulnerable neighbors and unsheltered residents

(Washington, DC) – Due to high temperatures and humidity levels, Mayor Muriel Bowser has activated a Heat Alert for Sunday, June 22, and an Extreme Heat Alert for Monday, June 23 through Wednesday, June 25, with the possibility of an extension, depending on updated forecasts.

For Sunday, the National Weather Service is forecasting air temperatures reaching 98 degrees. When combined with high humidity levels, the heat index may reach 104 degrees at times. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop to around 78 degrees. For Monday through Wednesday, the National Weather Service is forecasting air temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. When combined with high humidity levels, the heat index may reach 110 degrees at times. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop to the low to mid 80s.

When the heat index forecast exceeds 95 degrees, the District issues a Heat Alert. When the heat index forecast exceeds 105 degrees, the District issues an Extreme Heat Alert and may implement additional resources as needed to support public health and wellness. Learn more about updates to the District’s Heat Plan here.

The Bowser Administration urges residents to take precautions during these two alerts. That includes staying indoors when possible, remaining hydrated, checking on seniors and other vulnerable neighbors, and calling the shelter hotline at (202) 399-7093 or 311 for unsheltered residents in need of free, accessible transportation to a low-barrier shelter or day center. The District will also deploy cooling buses at locations across the city to assist unsheltered residents in need of immediate relief from the heat.

Residents are encouraged to visit heat.dc.gov to find information about the District’s heat emergency plan, locate cooling centers, and access important safety tips and available services. To stay informed about heat alerts and other emergency notifications, residents can sign up for AlertDC at alert.dc.gov.

Cooling Centers
Cooling centers are locations across the District where individuals can go to gain respite from the heat. In addition to providing an air-conditioned place to cool off, some cooling centers provide additional services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Facilities serving as cooling centers include low-barrier shelters, day centers, public libraries, community centers and recreation centers, and youth services centers. Find your closest cooling center using the map located at heat.dc.gov.

Low-Barrier Shelters and Day Centers
Low-barrier shelters and day centers for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round, provide an air-conditioned and safe place to stay, and offer additional support services and case management. Follow this link for more information.

Access to Emergency Shelter
All low-barrier shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round. The following low-barrier shelters are open 24 hours:

New York Avenue Men’s Shelter (1355 New York Avenue NE)
801 East Men’s Shelter (2722 MLK Jr. Avenue SE)
Adams Place Men’s Shelter (2210 Adams Place NE)
Emery Men’s Shelter (1725 Lincoln Road NE)
Pat Handy Women’s Shelter (810 5th Street NW)
Harriet Tubman Women’s Shelter (1910 Massachusetts Avenue SE)
Living Life Alternatives LGBTQ+ Shelter (400 50th Street SE)

Access to Day Centers
Day centers provide walk-in services to individuals experiencing homelessness with no appointment required. Entry to the following day centers is permitted on a first-come, first-served basis:

Downtown Day Services Center (1313 New York Avenue NW) – Monday through Friday from 9 am to 7 pm. (extended hours during Extreme Heat Alert) and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.
Adams Place Day Center (2210 Adams Place NE) – Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.
801 East Day Center (2722 MLK Jr. Avenue SE) – Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Zoe’s Doors Youth Drop-In Center for residents experiencing homelessness, located at 900 Rhode Island Avenue NE, offers a safe place for youth ages 18–24 and is open 24 hours for walk-in and full services. Appointments are recommended. For more information, please call 202-248-2098.

Pools and Spray Parks
When it’s hot out, one of the best ways to cool down quickly is to go swimming or splash around in cold water. The District offers free access to indoor pools, outdoor pools, and spray parks for DC residents, operated by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR).

Spray parks across the city operate daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Some spray parks may be offline due to scheduled maintenance. To find your closest spray park,visit dpr.dc.gov/sprayparks.
Indoor pools are available year-round across the city. Visit dpr.dc.gov/indoorpools for a full list of locations and hours.
Outdoor pools operate six days a week on individual schedules. For locations and schedules, visit dpr.dc.gov/outdoorpools.

Heat Safety Precautions
Keep yourself and your family safe from the heat during the summer months by taking the following actions:

Drink lots of water: Drink more water, no matter how active you are, and avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, because your body will sweat more on hot days. 
Rest in cool places: Take frequent breaks in cool, shady areas because your body temperature will increase in the sun.
Keep it cool inside: Close the shades on windows that receive sun during the day to decrease the amount of heat coming inside. During the early morning and late evening, open windows and doors to let heat out and let cooler air in.
Wear loose clothing and sunscreen: Wear protective, loose-fitting clothing and SPF-15 or higher sunscreen.
Take cold showers: Use cold water when showering or bathing to lower your body temperature.
Create makeshift air conditioning: Put a bowl of ice or cold water in front of your fan to cool down the blowing air.
Keep kids and pets cool: Don’t leave kids or pets alone in cars, ever, because the temperature inside a car can rise very quickly. If you see an animal left outside or in a vehicle on a hot day, call the Brandywine Valley SPCA at (202) 888-PETS.
Walk pets safely: Take your pet and/or service animal out in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
Have your emergency kit handy: Keep your emergency kit available in an easy-to-reach location in case of an emergency.

Get Help with Utilities
The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) provides financial assistance, discounts, and energy efficiency programs to help you with utility bills. Visit the Utility Affordability Programs website or call (202) 236-2657 to learn more.

Know Fire Hydrant Laws
Unauthorized use of fire hydrants is unlawful, dangerous, and damaging. To report a fire hydrant that has been tampered with, please call 311.

Volunteer with the Community Emergency Response Team 
Serve DC offers the chance to volunteer with DC’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which will allow you to learn more about emergency preparedness and help your fellow community members during a hazard event. Visit the Serve DC CERT page to learn more.

Senior Wellness Centers
For the most up-to-date information about Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) Senior Wellness Centers, visit dacl.dc.gov/service/senior-wellness-centers. For more information about Senior Centers, seniors are advised to call DACL at (202) 724-5626 during regular business hours, or the District’s Call Center at 311 after hours.

Bowser Administration Highlights Food Assistance Programs for Students During the Summer Months

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 18:20:02 +0000

Friday, June 20, 2025

Programs include DC SUN Bucks grocery benefits and free meals at sites across the district

(Washington, DC) – Today, as students transition into summer break, the Bowser Administration is encouraging families to take advantage of programs that provide students with free meals during the summer months. These programs are part of the Administration’s ongoing commitment to closing food access gaps, supporting families, and promoting student health and well-being all year long. Families are encouraged to explore summer programs and additional resources at summer.dc.gov.

DC SUN Bucks
The DC SUN Bucks program has returned for 2025. DC SUN Bucks is a federal nutrition assistance program that helps families buy food for their school-aged children during summer break when kids lose access to school meals. This program helps close the summer hunger gap when students do not have access to nutritious school meals. Eligible students will receive a one-time $120 Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) benefit to purchase food this summer.

The District will distribute almost $10 million in federally funded food benefits from USDA to an estimated 80,000 students. The benefits will be provided on an EBT card and can be used to buy food at any authorized Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) retailer, like grocery stores and farmers markets. Benefits will be available to use for 122 days (about four months) after they are issued.

“We are excited to announce we have distributed the first round of 2025 DC SUN Bucks benefits to almost 70,000 DC students — and thousands more families will receive benefits in the coming months,” said A.D. Rachel Pierre, Interim Director of the Department of Human Services. “These benefits are critical to help District families provide food for their kids while school is out. Over $8 million in SUN Bucks have already been issued in DC and will be invested in local stores and farmers markets across the District.”

DC SUN Bucks will benefit DC students and school-aged children, pre-K and up, who live in a household with an annual income less than or equal to 185% of the federal poverty level (FPL) and attend a school participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Almost 90% of eligible students have already been issued their benefits automatically and do not need to apply; for students receiving SNAP or TANF, the benefit has already been added directly to their existing SNAP or TANF card. For students who are automatically eligible because they participate in a qualifying Medicaid program, had an approved FARM application at school, or are in foster care or experiencing homelessness, a new DC SUN Bucks card has been mailed to their address on file. Some children between ages 5-18 years old who participate in a qualifying Medicaid program but are not enrolled in school may need to fill out a short opt-in form before they can receive their new DC SUN Bucks card.

Families with students enrolled in a NSLP school and with income at or under 185% FPL who are not automatically eligible for DC SUN Bucks will need to submit an application, opening late June on sunbucks.dc.gov. Families can apply to receive benefits for Summer 2025 through August 25, 2025.

“No child should lose access to healthy food just because school is out,” said Dr. Ayanna Bennett, Director of DC Health. “DC SUN Bucks helps fill that summer nutrition gap by putting grocery benefits directly into the hands of families who need them most. For us at DC Health, this program represents more than a temporary solution — it’s part of a long-term strategy to support healthier kids, stronger families, and a future with fewer nutrition-related health issues. By ensuring families know about DC SUN Bucks and how to access it, we’re advancing our mission to create a healthier DC, one meal at a time.”

Additionally, DHS, DC Health, and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) are collaborating with community-based organizations and partnering with school-based liaisons to ensure students experiencing homelessness can access benefits without a permanent address. Families can check their eligibility, learn more about DC SUN Bucks, and complete the Medicaid opt-in form or application at sunbucks.dc.gov. Support is also available by calling the DC SUN Bucks Call Center at (202) 888-4834, TTY/TTD: 711.

DC Youth Meals Program
The Bowser Administration is also encouraging families to take advantage of the DC Youth Meals Program, which ensures children and youth have access to healthy, free meals throughout the summer. Select DC Youth Meals Program sites opened today, Friday, June 20, with most sites beginning meal service on Monday, June 23 and operating through Sunday, August 24. Families can find meal sites by ward at osse.dc.gov/dcyouthmeals.

In FY24, the program served nearly 384,000 meals at 189 sites with support from 12 sponsoring organizations.

“We know that students thrive when they have access to healthy meals, and these programs are critical to ensuring that no child in DC goes hungry during the summer months,” said State Superintendent Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell. “SUN Bucks and the DC Youth Meals Program provide essential support to families, helping children get the nutrition they need to grow, play, and prepare for the upcoming school year.”

DCPS Summer Food Service Program
Beginning Tuesday, June 24, DCPS will serve free breakfast and lunch to all youth 18 and younger across the city all summer long. Students are welcome to stop into a DCPS summer school site where they can be served a meal to consume on-site. DCPS summer schedules can be found here. Breakfast is generally served from 8 am to 10 am and lunch from 11 am to 1 pm.

Bowser Administration Hosts Third Annual FITDC: Juneteenth in the District

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:11:59 +0000

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Two-day event honors community, culture, and wellness

(Washington, DC) – This week, the Bowser Administration will host the third annual “Juneteenth in the District”— a powerful two-day event centered on mind, body, and community in commemoration of the Juneteenth holiday, which celebrates the formal end of slavery in the United States. Led by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and taking place on Thursday, June 19 at Yards Park and Saturday, June 21 at Franklin Park, the event invites residents to honor the significance of Juneteenth through wellness experiences that promote health and embrace the national holiday.

“Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of freedom, and through movement we honor that legacy,” said DPR Director Thennie Freeman. “This two-day celebration with FITDC invites everyone to connect, reflect, and move together in the spirit of Black culture and liberation. We invite all residents to join us.”

The two-day event offers a powerful blend of movement, mindfulness, and culture, featuring some of the area’s top instructors. The celebration begins with an evening of relaxation, reflection, and a movie at Yards Park on Thursday, June 19. It continues at Franklin Park on Saturday, June 21, with a day full of line dancing, high-energy workouts, yoga, meditation, and a focus on Black health and wellness. Attendees are encouraged to wear their best country-style attire and come ready to move.

Both days are free and open to all residents. Participants will receive a free commemorative shirt on a first-come, first-served basis, as quantities are limited.

Event Schedule
Day 1: Thursday, June 19, 2025 | Yards Park, 355 Water Street SE

6 pm: Yoga & Meditation | Britt Daniels
7:30 pm: Movie Night Begins

Day 2: Saturday, June 21, 2025 | Franklin Park, 1332 I Street NW

10 am: Yoga & Meditation | Britt Daniels
11 am: HIIT | Magalie Enwere
11:45 am: Meditation | Britt Daniels
12 pm: Dance Workout | Gabriel Sanchez
12:50 pm: Black National Anthem | Lexcia Carr
12:55 pm: Spoken Word on Black Wellness | Carlynn Newhouse
1 pm: Yoga | Britt Daniels
1:45 pm: Sound Bath | Allison Frith
2:30 pm: Country/Line Dance | Gabriel Sanchez
3 pm: Event Ends

Residents are encouraged to RSVP for one or both dates. For more information and to RSVP, please visit: juneteenthinthedistrict.splashthat.com.

Mayor Bowser Activates Heat Alert, Announces Spray Parks and Select Recreation Centers Will Open on Juneteenth

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:37:32 +0000

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

(Washington, DC) – Due to high temperatures and humidity levels, Mayor Muriel Bowser has activated a Heat Alert for Wednesday, June 18 and Thursday, June 19 (Juneteenth). To help residents stay safe and cool, spray parks across the District and select recreation centers will be open on Thursday for the Juneteenth holiday.

The National Weather Service is forecasting air temperatures in the upper 80s and lower 90s over the next two days. When combined with high humidity levels, the heat index may exceed 95 degrees at times. Overnight temperatures will drop to the 70s.

When the heat index forecast reaches 95 degrees or higher, the District issues a Heat Alert and opens cooling centers where community members can seek relief from the heat. If the heat index forecast exceeds 105 degrees, the District will issue an Extreme Heat Alert and may implement additional resources as needed to support public health and wellness. Learn more about updates to the District’s Heat Plan here.

The Bowser Administration urges residents to take precautions during the Heat Alert. That includes staying indoors when possible, remaining hydrated, and checking on seniors and other vulnerable neighbors, and to call the shelter hotline for unsheltered residents in need of free, accessible transportation to a cooling center. To request accessible transportation for yourself or someone else, call the shelter hotline at (202) 399-7093 or dial 311.

Low-Barrier Shelters and Day Centers
Low-barrier shelters and day centers for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round, provide an air-conditioned and safe place to stay, and offer additional support services and case management. Follow this link for more information.

Access to Emergency Shelter           
All low-barrier shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round. The following low-barrier shelters are open 24 hours.

New York Avenue Men’s Shelter (1355 New York Avenue NE)
801 East Men's Shelter (2722 MLK Jr. Avenue SE)
Adams Place Men’s Shelter (2210 Adams Place NE)
Emery Men’s Shelter (1725 Lincoln Road NE)
Pat Handy Women’s Shelter (810 5th Street NW)
Harriet Tubman Women’s Shelter (1910 Massachusetts Avenue SE)
Living Life Alternatives LGBTQ+ Shelter (400 50th Street SE)

The Downtown Day Services Center (The Center), located at 1313 New York Avenue NW, provides walk-in services to individuals experiencing homelessness with no appointment required. The Center will be open on Wednesday, June 18 and Thursday, June 19 from 9 am to 5 pm. Entry will be permitted on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests will be provided with a wristband that must be worn while in the Center.

Zoe’s Doors Youth Drop-In Center for residents experiencing homelessness, located at 900 Rhode Island Avenue NE, offers a safe place for youth and will be open 24 hours on Wednesday, June 18 and Thursday, June 19 for walk-in and full services. Appointments are recommended.

While some public facilities will be closed on Thursday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday, other Cooling Centers will be open including low-barrier shelters, the Downtown Day Services Center, and the following recreation centers from 10 am to 5 pm:

Facility Name	Address	Ward
Columbia Heights Community Center	1480 Girard Street NW	Ward 1
Takoma Community Center	300 Van Buren Street NW	Ward 4
Turkey Thicket Recreation Center	1100 Michigan Avenue NE	Ward 5
Joseph H. Cole Recreation Center	1299 Neal Street NE	Ward 5
King Greenleaf Recreation Center	201 N Street SW	Ward 6
Benning Stoddert Recreation Center	100 Stoddert Place SE	Ward 7
Barry Farm Recreation Center	1230 Sumner Road SE	Ward 8
Ferebee-Hope Recreation Center	700 Yuma Street S	Ward 8

Pools and Spray Parks
When it’s hot out, one of the best ways to cool down quickly is to go swimming or splash around in cold water. The District offers free access to indoor pools, outdoor pools, and spray parks for DC residents, operated by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR).

Spray parks across the city will operate tomorrow, Thursday, June 19, from 10 am to 5 pm to help people beat the heat. Some spray parks may be offline due to scheduled maintenance. Spray parks will be closed on Friday, June 20, and will reopen for daily operations starting Saturday, June 21. To find the closest spray park, visit dpr.dc.gov/sprayparks.
Indoor pools are available year-round across the city. Visit dpr.dc.gov/indoorpools for a full list of locations and hours. Please note that indoor pools will be closed on Juneteenth.
Outdoor pools will begin operating six days a week on individual schedules starting Saturday, June 21. For locations and schedules, visit dpr.dc.gov/outdoorpools.

Heat Safety Precautions
Keep yourself and your family safe from the heat during the summer months by taking the following actions:

Drink lots of water: Drink more water, no matter how active you are, and avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, because your body will sweat more on hot days.
Rest in cool places: Take frequent breaks in cool, shady areas because your body temperature will increase in the sun.
Keep it cool inside: Close the shades on windows that receive sun during the day to decrease the amount of heat coming inside. During the early morning and late evening, open windows and doors to let heat out and let cooler air in.
Wear loose clothing and sunscreen: Wear protective, loose-fitting clothing and SPF-15 or higher sunscreen.
Take cold showers: Use cold water when showering or bathing to lower your body temperature.
Create makeshift air conditioning: Put a bowl of ice or cold water in front of your fan to cool down the blowing air.
Keep kids and pets cool: Don’t leave kids or pets alone in cars, ever, because the temperature inside a car can rise very quickly. If you see an animal left outside or in a vehicle on a hot day, call the Brandywine Valley SPCA at (202) 888-PETS.
Walk pets safely: Take your pet and/or service animal out in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
Have your emergency kit handy: Keep your emergency kit available in an easy-to-reach location in case of an emergency.

Know Fire Hydrant Laws
Unauthorized use of fire hydrants is unlawful, dangerous and damaging. To report a fire hydrant that has been tampered with, please call 311.

Volunteer with the Community Emergency Response Team
Serve DC offers the chance to volunteer with DC’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which will allow you to learn more about emergency preparedness and help your fellow community members during a hazard event. Visit the Serve DC CERT page to learn more.

Senior Wellness Centers
For the most up-to-date information about DACL Senior Wellness Centers, visit dacl.dc.gov/service/senior-wellness-centers. For more information about Senior Centers, seniors are advised to call the District Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) at (202) 724-5626 during regular business hours, or the District’s Call Center at 311 after hours. All DACL Senior Wellness Centers will be closed for Juneteenth on Thursday, June 19, and will reopen on Friday, June 20, for regular daily operations.

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Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend District’s Juvenile Curfew Laws

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:48:19 +0000

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 extends the juvenile curfew hours and creates more flexibility to protect public safety

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser, working with Ward 2 Councilmember and Chairwoman of the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety Brooke Pinto, announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, emergency legislation to strengthen and enhance enforcement and accountability tools for juveniles, with a specific focus on a stronger and more flexible curfew program.

“Most of our young people are doing the right thing, but unfortunately, we continue to see troubling trends in how groups of young people are gathering in the community – in ways that too often lead to violence and other unlawful behaviors,” said Mayor Bowser. “And when we see patterns of unsafe or unlawful behavior that put young people and the community at risk, we have to act. This emergency legislation gives us stronger, more flexible tools to prevent violence and disorder before it starts and to keep our community safe.”

The legislation seeks flexibility in the District’s juvenile curfew to allow the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to ensure the safety of juveniles and the public. The legislation is being submitted for consideration by the Council of the District of Columbia’s July 1 Legislative Meeting.

“Our young people deserve safe and engaging recreation spaces throughout our city and this summer we must explore additional programming to support their diverse interests and activities,” said Councilmember Brooke Pinto. “We also must empower the Chief of Police with additional tools to protect our kids and prevent violence before it occurs with the authority to call for certain areas to have earlier curfews for kids if situations get out of control with large groups. We can and must do both.”

While MPD has used various methods to address past conduct of juveniles, including enhanced enforcement of the disturbance of the peace offenses, working with local businesses on signage related to trespassing by unaccompanied minors, and requests for a restricted curfew in the Wharf, the tools available are limited.

The legislation will ensure the safety of juveniles and the public by:

Changing the juvenile curfew hours to 11 pm every day in July and August 2025, and to extend the applicability of the juvenile curfew to 17-year-olds.
Authorizing the Chief of Police of MPD to establish an extended juvenile curfew zone(s). This proposal mirrors the parameters of the popular drug free zones from the Secure DC Omnibus bill signed into law by Mayor Bowser in March 2024. For these extended juvenile curfew zones, the curfew will begin at 7 pm and remain in effect for 15 consecutive days, with a possibility of extension based on public safety considerations for up to 30 days. An Advisory Neighborhood Commission, business improvement district, or Main Street organization can also petition the Chief of Police to establish an extended juvenile curfew hours zone.
Allowing the Mayor to authorize an emergency juvenile curfew.

In May, Mayor Bowser shared she was prepared to adjust the District’s public safety posture, especially as it relates to recent disturbances involving juveniles in commercial areas across the District, and introduce legislation updating the District’s curfew. Recent incidents of large groups of juveniles engaging in harmful, and often times criminal conduct in multiple areas around the city, including the Wharf, Navy Yard, Dupont Circle, and U Street, led to the emergency legislation.

This spring, MPD increased police presence in neighborhoods across the city, with the goal of preventing and disrupting negative behavior and strictly enforcing laws around disturbance of the public peace offenses.

The District continues to support youth who want to engage in positive behaviors by offering a host of summer programming, including the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program as well as the Department of Park and Recreation’s (DPR) summer camps and Late Night Hype series. Late Night Hype is DPR’s nighttime carnival-style event featuring music, food, video games, and talent shows. In addition to its normal setup, the summer-long event series will now feature activations from MPD, including the Side by Side Band and community resources, all while bringing youth and families together with MPD through community engagement.

Modified District Government Services for Juneteenth

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:05:46 +0000

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

(Washington, DC) – On Thursday, June 19, District Government will observe the Juneteenth holiday. While some services will be affected, many District employees will continue serving to maintain essential District operations.                
           
What's Open on Thursday, June 19   

Access to Emergency Shelter           
All low-barrier shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round. The following low-barrier shelters are open 24 hours and will remain open all day on Thursday, June 19.

New York Avenue Men’s Shelter (1355 New York Avenue NE)
801 East Men's Shelter (2722 MLK Jr. Avenue SE)
Adams Place Men’s Shelter (2210 Adams Place NE)
Emery Men’s Shelter (1725 Lincoln Road NE)
Pat Handy Women’s Shelter (810 5th Street NW)
Harriet Tubman Women’s Shelter (1910 Massachusetts Avenue SE)
Living Life Alternatives LGBTQ+ Shelter (400 50th Street SE)

Individuals and families seeking accessible transportation to homeless services should call the DC Shelter Hotline at (202) 399-7093, between the hours of 8 am to 12 am, or the Mayor’s Citywide Call Center at 311 at any time of the day or night.

The Downtown Day Services Center (The Center), located at 1313 New York Avenue NW, provides walk-in services to individuals experiencing homelessness with no appointment required. The Center will be open on Thursday, June 19 from 9 am to 5 pm. Entry will be permitted on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests will be provided with a wristband that must be worn while in the Center.

Zoe’s Doors Youth Drop-In Center  for residents experiencing homelessness, located at 900 Rhode Island Avenue NE, offers a safe place for youth and will be open on Thursday, June 19 by appointment through 7 pm. After 7 pm, the Drop-In Center will be open for walk-in and full services.

DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH): Residents facing mental or emotional distress, alcohol/drug use concerns, or who just need to talk can call 988 anytime to talk with a trained, caring crisis counselor for free, confidential support. The following services also are open on Thursday, June 19:  

The DC Stabilization Center, located at 35 K Street NE, is a 24/7 safe place for adults experiencing a drug/alcohol crisis to get the help they need. Walk in anytime. No cost.
The Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP), located at 1905 E Street SE, provides 24/7 emergency psychiatric care for individuals 18 years of age and older. Walk in anytime. No cost.
The Community Response Team (CRT) supports adults who are experiencing a psychiatric or substance use crisis. The CRT provides support by phone and will travel to the home or a location in the community to conduct an assessment and connect to emergency crises services. Call (202) 673-6495 anytime.

Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR): Outdoor parks, playgrounds, athletic courts, and fields will be open. All previously permitted events on these outdoor spaces will take place as scheduled.

Residents are invited to join FITDC to celebrate Juneteenth in the District on June 19 with a peaceful evening of yoga and meditation at Yards Park, and again on Saturday, June 21, for a high-energy day of fitness and performances at Franklin Park. RSVP here.

The Thursday weekly fruit/vegetable giveaway at Powell Communal Farm, 3149 16th Street NW, will take place at 11 am.
   
Modified Service Adjustments           
         
The DC Department of Public Works (DPW) will not collect household trash, recycling and food waste collection on Thursday, June 19. Trash, recycling, and food waste collections will “slide” for the remainder of the week into Saturday. For example, households that normally receive trash, recycling and food waste collections on Thursday, June 19 will be serviced on Friday, June 20. 
 
The Benning Road Transfer Station is closed for renovations until further notice.        

The Fort Totten Transfer Station will be closed to the public on Thursday, June 19. All services will resume on Friday, June 20 for bulk trash and recycling.

Construction:           
          
The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will suspend construction and work zones for non-emergency work in roadways, alleys, and sidewalks within the District’s right of way. This includes manhole access and construction-related deliveries. Approved construction activities may resume Friday, June 20 during permitted work hours.            
         
Lane Restrictions:             
DDOT will suspend reversible lane operations citywide on Thursday, June 19 on the following:       

Canal Road between Chain Bridge and Foxhall Road NW
Rock Creek Parkway (controlled by the National Park Service)
16th Street NW between Irving Street and Arkansas Avenue NW

The DC Department of Buildings (DOB) will not allow construction on Thursday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth without an issued after-hours permit. Construction activity that proceeds on the holiday without this required permit will result in a Stop Work Order. Illegal construction reports can be made using the Illegal Construction Inspection Request Form or afterhours by calling 311. To learn more about the authorized construction hours and how to apply for an after hours permit, please view the following link: After Hours Permit. DOB offers many online services, tools, and resources, enabling customers to conduct business 24 hours per day, seven days per week.     
  
Parking Enforcement:             

All parking enforcement will be suspended on Thursday, June 19, except for Streetcar ticketing and towing, and enforcement around National Stadium for the baseball game. Parking enforcement will resume on Friday, June 20.  

DC Streetcar will operate on the standard schedule Thursday, June 19. Riders can visit dcstreetcar.com for the latest updates on routes and schedules.       
      
What's Closed on Thursday, June 19  
  
DC Public Schools (DCPS) will be closed for Summer Break starting Wednesday, June 18.

All DC Public Library (DCPL) locations will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, June 20. For more information on available Library programs, visit dclibrary.org or download the Library’s app.        
   
Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) recreation centers, community centers, indoor aquatic centers, outdoor aquatic centers, and offices will be closed on Thursday, June 19. Splash parks will be offline. DPR facilities will resume normal hours on Friday, June 20.
       
The Department of Human Services Economic Security Administration Service Centers will be closed on Thursday, June 19.

The Virginia Williams Family Resource Center, the central intake office for all families in the District of Columbia seeking assistance with their housing needs, will be closed on Thursday, June 19.
           
The DC Health & Wellness Center (77 P Street NE) will be closed on Thursday, June 19. 
  
DC Health’s Vital Records Division will be closed on Thursday, June 19. 
      
DC Health’s Licensing and Renewal Division will be closed Thursday, June 19 with the exception of the online license applications system which will be available at doh.force.com/dchealthrenewals/s/portal-page.      
  
All Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) locations will be closed in observance of Juneteenth on Thursday, June 19. All locations will reopen Friday, June 20.  Customers are encouraged to visit the DMV website at dmv.dc.gov or download the agency’s free mobile app.   
     
The Department of Employment Services Navigation Call Center and all American Job Centers will be closed on Thursday, June 19. Residents are encouraged to file unemployment insurance claims online at does.dc.gov.           

The Sasha Bruce Youth Drop-In Centers for District residents experiencing homelessness will be closed on Thursday, June 19.

The Latin American Youth Center Youth Drop-In Center for District residents experiencing homelessness, located at 3045 15th Street NW, will be closed on Thursday, June 19.

The Adams Place Day Center for District residents experiencing homelessness, located at 2210 Adams Place NE, will be closed on Thursday, June 19.

The 801 E Day Center for District residents experiencing homelessness, located at 2722 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, will be closed on Thursday, June 19.

News Room

Modified District Government Services for Independence Day

What's Open on Friday, July 4

DC Streetcar will operate on the standard schedule Friday, July 4. Riders can visit dcstreetcar.com for the latest updates on routes and schedules. What's Closed on Friday, July 4

Statement on June 2025 Revenue Estimates

Mayor Bowser Invites Residents to Celebrate First-Ever Capitol Hill Open Streets Event, Highlights FY26 Budget Investments in a Multimodal DC

Mayor Bowser Highlights Free, Safe and Fun Summer Opportunities for DC Youth, Encourages Families to Stay Cool During Extreme Heat

Mayor Bowser Activates Heat Alert for Sunday, June 22, Extreme Heat Alert for Monday, June 23 through Wednesday, June 25

Bowser Administration Highlights Food Assistance Programs for Students During the Summer Months

Bowser Administration Hosts Third Annual FITDC: Juneteenth in the District

Mayor Bowser Activates Heat Alert, Announces Spray Parks and Select Recreation Centers Will Open on Juneteenth

Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend District’s Juvenile Curfew Laws

Modified District Government Services for Juneteenth

Modified District Government Services for Independence Day

DC Streetcar will operate on the standard schedule Friday, July 4. Riders can visit dcstreetcar.com for the latest updates on routes and schedules.

What's Closed on Friday, July 4 

Modified District Government Services for Juneteenth