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B 26-0533

San Romero Plaza Designation Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Brianne Nadeau

Designates the public right-of-way at Sacred Heart Way and 16th St NW as “San Romero Plaza,” creating an accessible space for daily gatherings near Powell Recreation Center.

Public Hearing on B26-0533 View Public Hearing Record
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Bill Summary · B 26-0533

Summary: San Romero Plaza Designation Act of 2025 (B 26-0533)

Purpose and Intent

  • To designate a specific public right-of-way as “San Romero Plaza” in the District of Columbia, honoring San Óscar Romero and reflecting the community’s values of justice, inclusion, and accessibility.
  • The designation is aligned with the Ward 1 vision for revitalized, usable public spaces that support everyday gathering, cultural expression, and social connection.
  • The adjacent Powell Recreation Center is highlighted as an anchor for youth, families, and working-class residents, with the plaza intended to strengthen community ties and reflect local identity.

Key Provisions

  • Designation of Public Space

    • The bill designates the public right-of-way abutting Square 2675, Lot 832, at the corner of Sacred Heart Way and 16th Street Northwest, as “San Romero Plaza.”
    • Designation administered under the Street and Alley Closing and Acquisition Procedures Act of 1982 (Sec. 401), with the designation implemented in accordance with DC law (D.C. Official Code §§ 9-204.01 and 9-204.22).

  • Legislative Formalities

    • The bill may be cited as the “Saint Romero Plaza Designation Amendment Act of 2025.”

  • Fiscal Impact

    • The Council adopts the fiscal impact statement prepared by the Budget Director, per the General Legislative Procedures Act of 1975. The Secretary to the Council will transmit this bill’s fiscal materials to the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation upon the bill’s effective date.

  • Effective Date and Review

    • The act becomes effective after mayoral approval (or Council action to override a mayoral veto) and a 30-day Congressional review period as required by the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, followed by publication in the District of Columbia Register.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Public Space and Community Access

    • The designation recognizes and preserves a public right-of-way space for communal use, potentially enhancing accessibility and usability for outdoor gathering, cultural activities, and daily public life.

  • Local Institutions

    • Nearby Powell Recreation Center and surrounding Ward 1 communities are identified as primary beneficiaries, with the plaza serving as a flexible space for residents to meet, rest, and participate in everyday activities.

  • Governmental and Administrative

    • Involves coordination with the Council, the Mayor, the Secretary to the Council, and the Department of Parks and Recreation for implementation, fiscal assessment, and official designation.

Timeline and Status

  • Introduced: December 8, 2025
  • Legislative Action: Referred to Committee of the Whole on December 16, 2025
  • Status: Referred to Committee of the Whole; Bill is in the standard process for DC Council consideration

Notable Context

  • The bill’s introduction references community input from the Columbia Heights and Mt. Pleasant Public Life Study, emphasizing the desire for designed public spaces that support everyday social life and inclusivity.
  • The designation also echoes broader thematic goals of honoring the legacy of San Óscar Romero as a global symbol of democracy, justice, and compassion.

This summary provides a concise overview of B 26-0533, focusing on what the bill changes, who is affected, and the procedural steps and timelines involved.

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

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