Public Life in DC

Washington, DC is fortunate to have a wealth of park spaces, squares, and pedestrian-friendly streets that provide opportunities for a vibrant and rich public life. As DC grows, existing and new public spaces are used by an increasing diversity of groups. Ensuring that our shared public spaces are designed to be inclusive, inviting, and delightful is a key component to maintaining a high quality of life for current and future DC residents of all ages and abilities. Through the use of policies and regulations, tools, and public space activation, the DC Office of Planning (OP) is working to provide a more accessible, convivial, and vibrant public realm.

From the overlapping themes of culture and the creative economy, OP's work in public space design and activation has expanded beyond traditional plans and streetscape guidelines with a focus on people and human experience. In tandem with DC's growth, OP's approach to the public realm has accelerated and expanded in scope, with a more intentional focus on fostering a robust and vibrant public life in the city. 

Learn more within this story map.