About Us
Westminster a very diverse, friendly, and active neighborhood. Neighbors look out for each other and are always willing to help. If you have any questions, feel free to ask a Westminster neighbor or any of the WNA officers.
WNA is an incorporated 501(c)(3), District of Columbia, non-profit corporation representing approximately 147 households. Residents started meeting in 1994 to organize neighborhood projects and talk about ways to improve the quality of life in the neighborhood. At that time, the neighborhood (defined as the area bordered by Ninth Street, S Street, T Street, and Tenth Street) had about 15 vacant, boarded up houses and a lively drug trade in the Westminster Playground and on the streets. The first big success for WNA was the planting of 25 new trees and the building of tree boxes for them in 1995. That effort encouraged the residents to continue working to improve the neighborhood.
WNA supported the designation of Greater U Street, including the WNA neighborhood, as an historic district in 1998. Over the years, and on an ongoing basis, WNA has organized and executed:
- Planting of trees (over 75 to-date) and flowers
- Brick sidewalk repair
- Graffiti abatement
- Building and maintenance of tree boxes
- Alley and street cleaning
- Boarding up of vacant properties
WNA also arranged a successful rat abatement program and, to keep the neighborhood rat free, purchased large garbage cans with lids for people in the community. At the recommendation of the local police and in compliance with DC law, WNA purchased rear house address plates for houses within WNA’s boundaries. The most ambitious WNA project was the renovation of the Westminster Playground for which WNA won a Committee of 100 Vision award in 2003.
At its monthly meetings, WNA provides a forum for local police and community organizers to educate residents about activities in the community. And, through block and holiday parties, WNA provides an opportunity for neighbors to get together in a social setting.
WNA is supported by members dues of $15 per year per household ($5 per year for seniors), and donations.
WNA meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7 PM in the Westminster Playground (on Westminster St.) If the weather is bad, the meetings are held in the basement of 922 Westminster.