Community Voices at the Center: North Capitol Phase 2 Public Meeting
Earlier this summer, PSI led the first public meeting for North Capitol Street Phase 2, a project led by the District Department of Transportation (DDOT). This effort focuses on one of the District’s most iconic and complex corridors, stretching north from the U.S. Capitol and serving as a vital connector for commuters, neighbors, and visitors alike.
The meeting brought together residents, community leaders, and agency partners to discuss the project’s purpose and vision. A combination of presentations, boards, and breakout discussions helped make the process accessible and encouraged active participation. Over the course of the event, participants heard about safety and traffic issues, proposed alternatives, and next steps, while also sharing their own concerns and ideas for the future of the corridor.
Our Role: Facilitating Meaningful Engagement
PSI played a critical role in designing the engagement approach, preparing meeting materials, and facilitating the discussion so every voice could be heard.
Our team helped:
- Explain project goals and context clearly for community members.
- Gather input on concerns such as traffic safety, pedestrian crossings, and transit access.
- Document feedback to ensure it informs the next phases of design.
This was more than a presentation — it was a two-way conversation. The interactive exercises and comment opportunities gave planners real data on what matters most to neighbors.
What We Heard
Feedback from the meeting underscored the community’s priorities
- Safety for all users – especially addressing dangerous intersections and speeding.
- Better pedestrian and bicycle connections to parks, schools, and Metro stations.
- Reduced congestion while maintaining access for residents and businesses.
This input will guide the design team as they develop alternatives and refine solutions.
Why Engagement Matters
Projects like North Capitol Phase 2 succeed when they are co-created with the people who will use them every day.Early engagement builds trust, surfaces local knowledge, and helps avoid costly redesigns later.
At PSI, we believe community engagement is not just a box to check — it is a catalyst for better design outcomes, safer streets, and stronger communities.
Looking Ahead
The feedback collected at this first meeting will feed directly into the next phase of design, with additional opportunities for input planned throughout the project. PSI is excited to continue supporting DDOT and agency partners to make North Capitol Street safer, more connected, and more welcoming for everyone.
Photography by TB&A