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B 26-0550

Ralph J. Bunche Way Designation Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Zachary Parker

Designates a public street as Ralph J. Bunche Way to honor the Nobel laureate; updates signage, maps, and records, affecting residents, EMS, mail, and navigation.

Act A26-0329 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 008181
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Bill Summary · B 26-0550

Summary: Bill B 26-0550 — Ralph J. Bunche Way Designation Act of 2025

Overview

  • Bill number: B 26-0550
  • Title: Ralph J. Bunche Way Designation Act of 2025
  • Purpose (as indicated by title): Designates a street or public right-of-way to be named “Ralph J. Bunche Way.” The act serves to honor Ralph Bunche, a prominent diplomat and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Status and Timeline

  • Introduced: December 15, 2025, by Councilmember Parker (Office of the Secretary noted for introduction)
  • Current status: Referred to Committee of the Whole
  • Legislative actions to date:
    • 2025-12-15: Introduced
    • 2026-01-06: Referred to Committee of the Whole

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill’s primary intent is to designate a public street or corridor as “Ralph J. Bunche Way” to commemorate Ralph Bunche’s contributions. The designation is typically intended to honor a historical figure and provide a geographic marker that reflects civic values and local history.

Likely Provisions (Based on standard street-name designation bills)

Note: The exact text and specific provisions are not provided in the summary available. The following are common elements found in designation bills and may appear in B 26-0550 if enacted:
- Designation scope: Identification of the specific street, segment, or public right-of-way to be renamed.
- Signage requirements: Authorization or requirements for installing street name signs reflecting the new designation (and any style or funding provisions).
- Maps and records: Updates to official maps, GIS data, and municipal or county property records to reflect the new name.
- Operating and maintenance: Responsibilities for maintenance of signage and related infrastructure.
- Effective date: When the designation takes effect (often upon enactment or a specified future date).
- Translations and inclusivity: Provisions for accessibility, multilingual signage if applicable.
- Transition provisions: Handling of existing street names in emergency and utility systems to ensure clarity during the transition.

Potential Impact

  • Geographic and civic impact: The renaming would affect residents, businesses, emergency services, mail delivery, and navigation systems along the designated street. Signage updates would be required.
  • Administrative impact: Municipal departments (e.g., public works, planning, GIS, permitting) would implement name changes, update records, and coordinate with emergency services and mapping providers.
  • Cultural/educational impact: Public recognition of Ralph Bunche’s legacy within the community, aligning with broader efforts to honor historical figures in public space naming.

What’s Next

  • As the bill progresses, the Committee of the Whole will review the proposed designation, proposed language for signage, and any administrative or fiscal implications.
  • Leadership or Council vote would determine adoption, followed by necessary updates to municipal maps, 911/addressing records, and public communications.

Quick Facts

  • Introduced by: Councilmember Parker
  • Date of introduction: December 15, 2025
  • Current action: Referred to Committee of the Whole as of January 6, 2026

If the full bill text becomes available, a more detailed section-by-section summary of the exact designated location, signage requirements, and implementation timeline can be provided.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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