We welcome growth — but not without you.
The 1601 Washington Avenue project is moving forward without real community input.
We’re coming together to change that.
Join us. Stand with us.
Let’s get the time we need to do this right.
We’re coming together to make sure 1601 Washington works for everyone.
Date: Wednesday, August 20th, 2:00 PM
Where: Attend on Zoom or in person (details here)
What to do: Speak up or simply be present to show support for a continuance.
Find out More
The 1601 Washington Avenue development will shape our neighborhood for decades. We welcome new neighbors, new businesses, and thoughtful growth — but the current process has left too many voices out.
In July, our local Registered Community Organization (RCO) moved forward with a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) written by a small, non-diverse committee without open community input. That agreement does not reflect our neighborhood’s diversity, needs, or vision for the future.
We believe this process needs a reset.
After the informational meeting on July 23rd where the CBA was presented for the first time, we started to organize. We reached out to the developer. Our working group was given an impossible deadline: meet with the community, collect feedback, and return proposals by August 7. We did what we could in the short time provided — producing broad priorities based on a single meeting — but we made it clear more time was needed to meet, discuss, and prioritize potential benefits.
Despite this, the process moved forward and a new version of the CBA was produced. This updated agreement still fails to address our concerns about the lack of community involvement and the substance of the benefits proposed.
We need the time and opportunity to gather meaningful input from across our community — representing all races, genders, backgrounds, and experiences — so the final CBA truly reflects what we decide together.
Please email us to find out more information
and when we're next meeting!
We’re Not Against Development
This isn’t about stopping the project.
It’s about making sure it is done right, with respect for the people who live here now and a commitment to long-term benefits for the community.
Our Immediate Goal: Ask for a Continuance at the ZBA
The Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) is scheduled to decide on this project's variances on August 20th. We will be asking for a continuance so we have time to create a truly community-led CBA.
The more of us who show up, the stronger our case.
Date: Wednesday, August 20th, 2:00 PM
Where: Attend on Zoom or in person (details here)
What to do: Speak up or simply be present to show support for a continuance.
Find out More
How You Can Help Right Now
- Come to the ZBA hearing — even if you don’t speak, your presence matters.
- Join our community-led working group — we welcome all voices.
- Share this website with your neighbors, friends, and local groups.
Join the Effort →
Get ZBA Hearing Info →
Together, we can make sure 1601 Washington is built with the community — not just in it.