In the heart of Washington, D.C., a significant legislative proposal is making waves as the Council of the District of Columbia considers the Langston Slater Surplus Declaration and Disposition Approval Act of 2024. Introduced on March 4, 2025, this bill aims to transform the landscape of a once-bustling educational hub into a vibrant mixed-income community, addressing both housing shortages and economic development in the area.

The bill designates the District-owned property at 33-45 P Street, NW—formerly home to Langston and Slater Elementary Schools—as surplus. This move paves the way for the Mayor to sell or lease the land, with Lebanon Village, LLC selected as the developer to spearhead the project. A key provision of the bill mandates that 30% of the residential units be allocated as affordable housing, a response to the pressing need for accessible living options in the city. Additionally, the developer is required to adhere to a First Source agreement, ensuring that local residents are prioritized for job opportunities arising from the project.

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on affordable housing, it has not been without its critics. Some community members express concerns about the potential for gentrification and the displacement of long-time residents. The sunset clause, which limits the District's authority to dispose of the property to two years from the bill's effective date, has also sparked debate among council members regarding the long-term implications of such a rapid timeline.

Financially, the bill is deemed neutral, with the Chief Financial Officer, Glen Lee, confirming that the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development can manage the project within its existing budget. This assurance of fiscal responsibility may bolster support among council members wary of budgetary impacts.

As discussions continue, the Langston Slater Act stands at the intersection of housing policy and community development, reflecting broader trends in urban planning. Experts suggest that if successful, this initiative could serve as a model for similar projects across the District, potentially reshaping the narrative around affordable housing in urban settings.

With the Council poised to vote on this pivotal legislation, the outcome could significantly influence the future of the neighborhood and set a precedent for how the District addresses its housing crisis. As the community watches closely, the Langston Slater Act may well become a landmark moment in D.C.'s ongoing efforts to balance development with the needs of its residents.