Deputy Mayor Nina Albert unveils DC's four-pillar economic recovery strategy post-pandemic

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities held its regular meeting on March 17, 2025, featuring special remarks from Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, Nina Albert. The meeting focused on the intersection of the arts and economic development in Washington, D.C., particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

Deputy Mayor Albert emphasized the importance of the arts in contributing to the city’s economic landscape. She opened a dialogue about how the arts can support the city’s economic development goals, particularly as the demand for office space has decreased due to increased telework. This shift has raised concerns about potential declines in tax revenues, which heavily rely on commercial property taxes.

Albert outlined a four-pillar strategy for economic growth in D.C. post-pandemic. The first pillar focuses on attracting high-growth industries such as technology, marketing, and consulting to fill vacant office spaces. The second pillar addresses the need for affordable housing across all income levels, which is crucial for attracting and retaining a diverse workforce.

The third pillar highlights the significance of unique entertainment destinations, where the arts play a vital role. Albert noted the growing popularity of festivals and events that draw visitors to the city, enhancing its appeal as a cultural hub. She stressed the need to promote and strategically grow these events, which serve as key differentiators for D.C.

The fourth pillar emphasizes the diversity of businesses and entrepreneurs in the city, with a goal of ensuring that 33% of all D.C. businesses are owned by people of color. This diversity is seen as a critical component of the city’s identity and economic future.

Albert also discussed the need to reposition downtown D.C. from predominantly commercial office space to a more mixed-use environment, incorporating residential areas and community services. She highlighted the importance of public art and cultural programs in this transformation, which aims to create a more vibrant and accessible urban landscape.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the vital role of the arts in D.C.'s economic recovery and growth strategy. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations between the Commission on the Arts and Humanities and the Deputy Mayor’s office, aiming to leverage the creative economy to enhance the city’s overall economic health.