The Bridge District, Ward 8’s newest neighborhood, opened Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by city officials, stakeholders and residents.
Located a block west of the Anacostia Metro Station in Southeast Washington, the development represents a $400 million investment — the largest private-sector project in Ward 8’s history, according to developers.
Though Mayor Muriel Bowser did not attend the ceremony, she issued a statement supporting the project.
“We are thrilled to open the Bridge District and deliver housing, amenities, and opportunity to Ward 8,” Bowser said. “We are excited by the potential this project holds — to be not only a world-class, sustainable residential neighborhood, but to serve as a mixed-use waterfront destination.”
Thomas Skinner, managing partner of city-based developer Redbrick LMD, told the gathering of 120 people that the project culminates more than a decade of planning.
“Opening the first phase of the Bridge District is the culmination of more than 10 years of working with the city, our neighbors, capital partners, and other stakeholders,” Skinner said. “With its serene and connected location, Bridge District is attracting residents, retailers and employers, while adding a major contributor to the economic growth of the city.”
Skinner noted that future additions will include a hotel and a full-service grocery store.
D.C. Council member Kenyan McDuffie, an independent who chairs the Committee on Business and Economic Development, praised the development.
“What this means is more housing, more jobs and more opportunities for District residents,” McDuffie said. “This is laying a solid foundation for a more dynamic District of Columbia.”
The Bridge District sits within walking distance of Nationals Park and The Yards, adjacent to a waterfront national park. The development offers water views, open spaces, recreational facilities, bike trails and Metro access, along with neighborhood shops and restaurants.
At full buildout, plans include 2.5 million square feet of mixed-use development aimed at residents, businesses and visitors.
The first phase includes 757 apartment units across three buildings: Stratos, Alula and Poplar House. Bozzuto Management Company manages Stratos and Alula, while Barsala oversees the furnished corporate housing units at Poplar House.
The project emphasizes sustainability, with Stratos, Poplar House and Alula seeking LEED Platinum Certification. Developers say the complex encompasses the largest multi-family structure worldwide pursuing International Living Future Institute Zero Carbon certification.
New retail establishments will open by year’s end, including Atlas Brew Works — a solar-powered brewery — and a restaurant owned by Ethiopian-born Chef Elias Taddesse.
Additional attractions include DC Fray, featuring outdoor sports and events through FrayLife Rec at Bridge District. Members and local residents can participate in seasonal sports leagues starting this year. The space includes ping pong, cornhole and areas for programming and private events.
Sandlot Anacostia has also opened for community events, live entertainment and cultural experiences, supported by Redbrick and Mayor Bowser’s Food Access Fund Grant.
