Slideshow: As Amazon HQ2 Approaches, Get A Look Inside Crystal City’s Strategic Plan
A flood of public and private investments is flowing into National Landing, the business district encompassing Crystal City, Pentagon City and Potomac Yard — Arlington. As new businesses move in and call the neighborhood home, officials are working to redefine the entire area as a dynamic, mixed-use urban center.
The Crystal City Business Improvement District recently released its strategic plan for National Landing, which outlines a series of initiatives designed to enhance the quality of life for those who live, work and visit the area on a daily basis.
“The BID reached out to almost 3,000 stakeholders in the process of drafting this plan, including elected officials, county staff, property owners, business and community leaders, area residents and local employees,” said Tracy Sayegh Gabriel, the president and executive director of the Crystal City BID.
Click below to look behind the scenes as National Landing comes to life.
Theme 1: Build Identity
The BID is dedicated to building a new, nationally recognized, modern identity for Crystal City, Pentagon City and Potomac Yard — National Landing. By unifying the area into a singular downtown district, the BID can best market it to investors, businesses and residents who are seeking a high-profile, diverse urban experience.
There are also plans centered around the goal of fostering a culture of inclusion and strengthening community through events and partnerships throughout the district.
Theme 2: Improve Place
By supporting public space enhancements and pedestrian-oriented urban design, the BID aims to create a memorable, dynamic environment for workers, residents and visitors.
In addition, new developments and contemporary architecture will usher in an exciting new era in the district’s design.
Theme 3: Foster Cultural Vibrancy
Culture, arts and entertainment are the hallmarks of a great city. The BID will foster opportunities for new venues and events designed to enliven and enrich the community while enhancing the attractiveness of the district.
Theme 4: Increase Connectivity
The district is poised to achieve next-generation mobility through major investments in a second Crystal City Metro entrance, a new VRE station, a transformed Richmond Highway and the construction of an Intermodal Connector to National Airport, an idea that the BID initiated and championed.
Theme 5: Grow The Economy
Amazon’s arrival validates the district’s status as a tech hub. The BID aims to build upon Amazon’s presence and the market’s existing strengths in order to support diversifying the economy, attracting additional investment and cultivating innovation, as well as attracting and retaining top talent.
Theme 6: Enhance Livability, Equity and Sustainability
The BID will help balance growth and changes to the area by championing new community assets, inclusive policies and the creation of a sustainable, resilient and amenity-rich environment.
The organization plans to serve as a forum for community dialogue while also expanding local collaborations. The BID will support homeless outreach services and encourage local hiring and sustainability best practices.
This feature was produced in collaboration between Bisnow Branded Content and the Crystal City Business Improvement District. Bisnow news staff was not involved in the production of this content.
