Brentwood Neighborhood in Ward 5 Emerges as Thriving Community Hub

History

Picture this – the Brentwood Mansion, a grand wedding present in 1817, laying the foundation for a neighborhood that's not just historic but alive with stories of the past. With a rich history steeped in the luxury of previous generations, Brentwood is named after the Brentwood Mansion, which Robert Brent, the first mayor of Washington City, established in 1817. The house was a wedding present for Eleanor, the daughter of Brent, and it was built on a large plot of land that would ultimately grow into the Brentwood area that we know today.

Geography and Location

Shaped like a trapezoid, Brentwood is bordered to the south by New York Avenue, to the east by Montana Avenue, to the north by Rhode Island Avenue NE, and to the west by the Northeast Corridor of Amtrak and the Red Line tracks of the Washington Metro. The Rhode Island Ave.-Brentwood Metro station serves the neighborhood.

Size and Demographics

In the heart of Brentwood, a community of 20,084 residents, embodying diverse ages and backgrounds, is orchestrating a symphony for change. With a median age of 40.6, Brentwood residents are not only contributing to the distinct rhythm of their neighborhood but are passionately uniting for environmental justice. In 2021, a poignant call reverberated through Brentwood as residents voiced concerns about becoming an undesired dumping ground for construction waste. "We all deserve to live in a clean environment," declared one resident, encapsulating the sentiment prevalent in the community. This sentiment is vividly captured in a compelling video unearthed by Empower DC, providing tangible evidence of the challenges faced. Tomorrow, October 26 at 11 am, the community will gather at 1601 W St NE, not just to announce legal action, but to collectively declare: #JusticeForBrentwood.

The statistics tell a story of a community refusing to be silenced. With an average annual household income of $105,022 and a median household income of $74,412, the residents, especially those aged 25 to 44 earning $119,365, are investing not just in their homes but in the future they envision. In 2018, the median home price skyrocketed to $456,000, prompting worries about affordable housing. However, recent trends show a shift, with December 2023 witnessing an 8.9% decrease in home prices, selling for a median price of $538K. The community is not just battling environmental concerns; they are also navigating the challenges of housing affordability.

As the residents of Brentwood prepare to make their voices heard, they underscore the movement with key statistics, echoing the commitment to environmental justice. "We refuse to be the dumping ground for every construction," asserts a passionate resident. Tomorrow's gathering at 1601 W St NE is more than an announcement; it's a statistical and vocal crescendo that harmonizes with the history and demographics of a community striving for a cleaner, greener tomorrow. Stand in solidarity, be part of the movement, and witness the convergence of data, quotes, and community resilience. #EnvironmentalJusticeNow #Organize

Challenges

One of Brentwood's main problems is the cost of housing. In 2018, the average house price increased to $456,000, which alarmed locals. Nonetheless, current data indicates that in December 2023, the median price of a property will have dropped by 8.9%.Community


Involvement and Local Governance: A Community Tapestry Woven with Purpose

As reported by Natalie Jones in The Washington Post on February 5, 2020, Brentwood emerges as a thriving community with a population of 20,084, flourishing not merely as a neighborhood but as a tightly-knit collective. Beyond the statistics, Brentwood residents actively engage in shaping the destiny of their community. Streets echo with the rhythm of renovation plans, a testament to the neighborhood's dedication to preserving its deep historical roots while embracing the technological era. Local governance transforms into a participatory symphony, utilizing neighborhood gatherings and municipal council sessions as vibrant forums for public discourse. These gatherings, highlighted by Jones, transcend mere formalities; they are animated conversations where neighbors share their hopes and ideas, actively participating in the authorship of Brentwood's future. It's not just governance; it's a dynamic partnership where locals are not passive observers but essential participants, ensuring the ongoing narrative of Brentwood is crafted by the heartbeat of its engaged and empowered community

Key Leaders

Zachary Parker, an influential figure in DC Council Ward 5, serves not only as the representative on the DC State Board of Education but as a passionate advocate for the close-knit community he now calls home. Having observed the tight bonds within the neighborhood since relocating seven years ago, Parker's commitment extends beyond professional duties. He proudly states, "Since moving here seven years ago, I've noticed how close-knit the community is; my neighbors all know each other." This personal connection fuels his dedication to the community, which has deep roots in his extended family for decades.

Parker's impact resonates, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic. Going above and beyond his duties, he organized volunteers to knock on over 3,000 doors, ensuring Ward 5 neighbors had the support to navigate vaccination plans and access rental assistance programs. Additionally, according to his website Zachary Parker Dc Council Ward 5 it highlights his commitment to the well-being of Ward 5 seniors is evident as he provided over 1,000 meals and care packages, including essential protective gear, throughout the pandemic. His leadership extends to education, where he established the Ward 5 Education Equity Committee, breaking through years of inactivity to give the community a voice in citywide education policy debates. Zachary Parker exemplifies a public servant deeply intertwined with his community, actively working to uplift and empower every resident of Ward 5.

Local Institutions and Organizations

Brentwood's community tapestry is woven with the threads of faith and education, anchored by key institutions that define its cultural identity. The historic Israel Baptist Church stands as a testament to both spiritual and historical significance, offering a sense of continuity and connection. Complementing the church's mission, Israel Manor Inc., a non-profit organization affiliated with the church, extends its reach, contributing to the well-being of residents across all age groups. On the academic front, the esteemed Gonzaga High School and the St. Jerome Institute play pivotal roles in shaping the neighborhood's educational landscape, fostering a sense of community pride and intellectual vibrancy. Together, these institutions form the backbone of Brentwood, nurturing a resilient and enriched community spirit that thrives on shared values and a commitment to collective growth.

Businesses and Future Outlook:

Established in 1996 with the mission "We Serve...So Others May Prosper," Israel Manor Inc. (IMI) is a cornerstone in the Brookland, Edgewood, Brentwood communities of Ward 5 in Washington, DC. Partnering with public and private agencies and situated in proximity to the historic Israel Baptist Church, IMI relies on volunteer support, charitable donations, and diverse funding resources to build state-of-the-art community facilities and affordable housing. Over its 25-year history, IMI has championed initiatives ranging from a Child Development Center to entrepreneurship training programs, embodying a commitment to community growth. The guiding principle permeates IMI's comprehensive programs, which span early childhood education, adult entrepreneurship training, counseling support, and community development projects. Notable projects include the Visionary Square at Rhode Island Avenue providing affordable housing and The Rev. Dr. Morris Shearin Sr. Community Life Center, a multifaceted facility offering health care services, education, training, fitness, recreation, and cultural arts programs. Through its unwavering dedication, IMI not only envisions but actively contributes to a community where residents, regardless of age, can thrive and prosper.

To conclude, Ward 5's Brentwood unfolds as a dynamic story intertwined with the strands of community resilience and history. While navigating the difficulties of the present, the neighborhood honors the rich history of the city. Brentwood is positioned for good changes because of its excellent leadership and dedication to community involvement. As Israel Baptist Church's backdrop resonates with Israel Manor Inc.'s non-profit rhythm, the future unfolds with the promise of revitalization—a remix that masterfully combines tradition with a modern touch. Brentwood is a community that celebrates its historical origins and looks forward to a healthy future where the patterns of development and unity blend perfectly with the echoes of the past.