The Streets for People Grant Program makes investments in infrastructure for streets, sidewalks, and alleys to encourage people to enjoy civic spaces, cultural amenities, and local businesses. This includes things like art, seating, shade, and landscaping. The grants support projects that strengthen the pull of Downtown’s public spaces, inviting people of all backgrounds to play, dine, shop, and enjoy one-of-kind entertainment and the distinct culture of Washington, DC.
Launched in 2022, Streets for People has supported over 200 events that have attracted more than 160,000 people to Downtown DC. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of event attendees surveyed made a purchase at a nearby business.
View a video recap of the first year of the Streets for People Grant Program.
Streets for People is building on that success with a targeted focus on long term improvements to Downtown neighborhoods. In 2025, the DC Office of Planning awarded nearly $2 million in grants to the DowntownDC Business Improvement District and the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District to further the implementation of the Downtown DC Public Realm Plan.
More Information on Public Space Activation, Urban Design and Public Life:
District of Columbia Public Space Activation & Stewardship Guide