Beyond the Data: 2024 NAEP math results are alarming

Category: Policy & Legislative Updates

Beyond the Data: 2024 NAEP math results are alarming

Posted on by Board of Trade

Below is a letter on the Release of 2024 NAEP Math Results from our member and partner at the Collaborative for Student Success that the Greater Washington Board of Trade has signed on to and supports:

The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results in mathematics should alarm us all and spur urgent action — particularly as recent research shows that math scores are closely tied to salary at age 30 for children of all backgrounds.1 Yesterday’s release of the Nation’s Report Card highlights significant and ongoing challenges in student math achievement — challenges that must be addressed by states, districts, and schools to prepare students for the workforce demands of today and tomorrow.

“Every time our nation is faced with low results on the NAEP exam, we express shock and dismay at the state of math education in our country,” said Jim Cowen, Executive Director of the Collaborative for Student Success. “But 48 hours later, the headlines fade, and little changes. This time must be different. Let’s commit to concrete action to improve math achievement for all students.”

We, the undersigned, recognize the challenge these results present. Rather than dwell on the numbers, we call on states and districts to take decisive action by adopting policies that will raise student math achievement. United, we ask policymakers to embrace bipartisan solutions that help ensure all kids — especially those from under-resourced communities — have access to a high-quality math education.

Together, we recommend six key strategies, backed by research and practice:

  • Expand access to high-quality instructional materials aligned to rigorous standards.
  • Provide educators with high-quality professional learning focused on effectively using instructional materials in the classroom.
  • Increase instructional time by extending learning opportunities before, during, and after the school day.
  • Automatically enroll students into advanced math courses based on objective assessment results or other data.
  • Hold teacher preparation programs accountable for equipping teachers with the skills and content needed to succeed in math instruction.
  • Leverage math coaches at the school or district level to work closely with teachers to improve classroom practice and, ultimately, student math achievement.

Moreover, we call upon local leaders to directly connect the math needs of our students to the workforce necessities of our communities. There’s no question that the more students that have a strong math education, the stronger our workforce will be.

“Business and industry leaders across our region, and the nation, are seeking applicants with strong math, reasoning, and data analysis skills,” said Jack McDougle, President & CEO, Greater Washington Board of Trade. “Both a child’s potential for success and the future health of our workforce are dependent on equipping students with the skills that math helps form and strengthen.”

Progress is Possible — and Already Happening
States across the country are proving that progress is within reach:

  • Rhode Island and Mississippi alike have taken concrete steps to increase access to high-quality instructional materials in math.
  • Texas, Washington, and North Carolina have implemented automatic enrollment policies to ensure students are not overlooked for advanced math coursework.
  • Arkansas and Massachusetts have strengthened teacher preparation programs, requiring higher standards for math instruction.
  • Alabama and Colorado are offering programs and resources that empower teachers to improve instruction and extend learning beyond the classroom.

These success stories demonstrate that bipartisan action can yield real results. Now is the time for every state and district to follow their lead.

Yes, the NAEP results are concerning — but we cannot let them be the final word. Instead, they should be the starting point for collective action. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to excel in math.

It is time to move past the data and ensure that our collective actions speak louder than the numbers released yesterday.

Below are companies and organizations that have signed on to support this letter: 

A+ Education Partnership
Best NC
Collaborative for Student Success
EdTrust
EdTrust-West
Educate Texas
Education Reform Now
Educators for Excellence – NY
EmpowerK12
ExcelinEd
Greater Washington Board of Trade
Just Equations
Maryland Out of School Time Network
Maryland STEM Education to Employment Ecosystem
Memphis Lift
Nashville PROPEL
National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
National Council on Teacher Quality
National Parents Union
NewMexicoKidsCAN
OhioExcels
Parent Shield Fort Worth
Powerful Parent Movement
Prichard Committee
STEM Center of Excellence, Inc.
Thomas B. Fordham Institute
TNTP
Zearn Math

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2025 and Beyond for GWBOT Policy Team

Posted on by Board of Trade

The Greater Washington Board of Trade’s Policy team has been busy engaging with key stakeholders, tracking critical legislation, and continuing conversations around crucial initiatives to start the year. As we look forward to an exciting 2025, our policy team is gearing up to tackle a wide range of pressing issues that will shape the future of our community, economy, and workforce. From transportation and technology to workforce development and economic growth, we are committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Here’s an overview of the key issues we’ll be focusing on in the coming year: 

Transportation: Budget Negotiations, Autonomous Vehicles, and Regional Connectivity  

In 2025, transportation remains a critical area of focus. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) funding will be a central issue as we work to ensure the sustainability and reliability of the region’s transit network. Securing stable, long-term funding for WMATA is essential for maintaining services and improving infrastructure to meet growing demand, which is an effort that Jack McDougle, President and CEO of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, has played a pivotal role in advancing as the DMVMoves Community Partners Advisory Group Chair for the DMVMoves initiative. The coalition brings leaders in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia together to develop a unified vision that will deliver a more efficient, reliable, and seamless experience for transit users across our region. Enhancing rail infrastructure can reduce congestion, lower emissions, and improve access to economic opportunities across the region. 

Additionally, the rise of autonomous vehicles is poised to revolutionize how we approach transportation, and our team will be monitoring regulatory developments and opportunities for integration. We will continue to advocate for policies and opportunities that support innovation while ensuring safety and accessibility.  

Technology: AI, Data Centers, and Digital Transformation 

In the technology sector, 2025 will bring an increasing focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and the growth of data centers, which will play a critical role in shaping industries, workforces, and policies across the Washington, D.C. region. As digital transformation accelerates, AI will continue to revolutionize sectors like healthcare, defense, cybersecurity, and education, creating new opportunities and challenges. In tandem with this technological evolution, the region is seeing a surge in the development of data centers, which are essential for supporting the vast amounts of data AI systems require to function effectively. These data centers not only support the AI-driven innovations but also enable the broader digital economy by providing the backbone infrastructure for cloud computing, storage, and high-speed connectivity.  

On the heels of President Trump’s recent announcement of  an investment of $500 Billion over the length of his presidency, the policy team will remain engaged with stakeholders to ensure that AI and data centers are developed in a manner that meets our region’s growing demands for a robust technological infrastructure such as reducing the digital divide, fostering workforce development in AI and tech sectors, and creating a balanced, equitable approach to inclusive economic growth.  

Follow news and updates on policy and legislation in the region on our GWBOT Policy & Priorities web page

Workforce Development: Federal Workforce Return to Office, Public-Private Partnerships, Automation  

The return to a full, five-day workweek for federal employees, as outlined in recent executive action taken by President Trump, will have significant implications for workforce development. Our team will monitor the impact of these changes, and we will also continue to support initiatives that foster workforce development, particularly as industries evolve in response to technological and workplace advancements. 

Federal workforce initiatives will remain a priority as we work to ensure that government agencies attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive job market. This includes advocating for policies that promote professional development and training programs to equip workers with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age, as well as taking a comprehensive well-round approach to what attracts skilled workers to the region including housing affordability, cost of living, and opportunities for advancement.  

Economy: Tax Reform, Housing Affordability, and Hospitality 

In 2025, our team will also focus on key economic issues, including possible tax reform initiatives in Virginia, Maryland, and the federal government. Recent state legislation in both Virginia and Maryland has proposed tax reforms aimed at easing the financial burdens on residents and businesses, such as efforts to reduce income taxes, automobile taxes, and reform business taxes to encourage investment and job growth. Housing affordability remains a significant challenge, as the D.C. metro area continues to experience high demand as a desirable location to settle in. Meanwhile, the hospitality sector, a key driver of the regional economy, is undergoing change once again as it responds not only to the COVID-19 pandemic but also to the impending return-to-work executive order, which is expected to drive up demand for these services and have an impact on the Downtown DC Revitalization Plan. 

As we monitor and engage on these economic issues, our goal will be to ensure that tax policies, housing strategies, and support for hospitality contribute to a thriving, resilient regional economy. Our team will stay engaged with stakeholders to ensure that reforms foster economic growth, improve quality of life, and enhance the D.C. region’s competitive position. 

Regionalism: How the Region Continues to Engage with the Federal Government 

The Washington, D.C. region is home to a remarkable concentration of federal agencies, business and thought leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, scholars, to name a few. This unique proximity enables unparalleled collaboration between the federal government, local, and state governments, fostering an environment where policies can be developed, implemented, and refined efficiently. The concentration of federal agencies in this region not only enhances governance and drives innovation, but also generates billions in economic activity, creating jobs and supporting businesses of all sizes. The synergies created by this ecosystem contribute to the broader regional economy, particularly through federal investments.  

Projects like the Metro expansion exemplify how these investments can improve quality of life while stimulating economic growth. Furthermore, effective coordination between federal, local, and state leaders ensures that investments in vulnerable communities—ranging from affordable housing to workforce development—reach those who need them most, helping to realize the vision of a thriving, inclusive region. The Greater Washington Board of Trade will continue to work together across all levels of government, to ensure that the Washington, D.C. business community and government can continue to collaborate to maximize the region’s economic and societal impact. 

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2025 and Beyond 

While these issues are top of mind, our policy team remains vigilant in identifying emerging challenges and opportunities on the horizon. Whether it’s navigating policy shifts or advancing crucial regional efforts, we are committed to adapting and leading the way in shaping policies that benefit our community and economy. In the coming year, we will continue to collaborate with stakeholders, engage in thoughtful dialogue, and advocate for evidence-based solutions that drive progress and innovation. Together, we look forward to making meaningful contributions toward a prosperous and sustainable future. 

Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger meets with Greater Washington’s business community

Posted on by Board of Trade

Former Congresswoman and current Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger recently engaged with our members in a discussion hosted at our office in Downtown D.C. that highlighted critical issues shaping Virginia’s future. 

Spanberger shared her vision to make Virginia the best place to live, work, and raise a family, focusing on workforce development, transportation, housing, and innovation. Her approach emphasizes collaboration between both the public and private sectors in our region to address regional challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth. 

Explore her insights on transportation priorities, technological innovation, and workforce development in our detailed recap below:

Strengthening Virginia’s Workforce 

Spanberger underscored the importance of preparing Virginia’s workforce to be ready on day one post-graduation. She aims to prioritize education, workforce training, and initiatives like paid family leave to create an environment where families and businesses thrive. A well-trained workforce, she noted, is the backbone of the economy, driving innovation and growth across sectors. 

Transportation and Infrastructure Priorities 

Transportation remains a critical area for Virginia’s economic vitality. Spanberger highlighted the integral role of the Metro system, particularly in Northern Virginia, in connecting the region and boosting the local economy. She advocated for sustained funding for regional transit systems like Metro, emphasizing their impact on commuting, tourism, and business operations. Additionally, Spanberger called for a unified statewide strategy on infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and broadband, to ensure equitable development across urban and rural areas. 

Affordable Housing and Economic Development 

Affordable housing is a widespread challenge in Virginia, affecting industrial, factory, and service workers in both urban and rural areas. Spanberger supports innovative public-private partnerships to increase housing supply and affordability, tailored to the diverse needs of the workforce. Her vision includes leveraging cross-state insights and working with builders to address unique regional challenges. 

Innovation and Technology 

Former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger sees technology, particularly AI, as a powerful tool for advancing Virginia’s capabilities. She encouraged leveraging AI to streamline operations, identify irregularities, and drive efficiencies across sectors. By embracing AI and other innovations, Virginia can position itself as a leader in tech-driven growth. 

Veterans and Second Careers 

With its significant military presence, Virginia has a unique opportunity to attract veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Spanberger stressed the need for better communication about resources that are available to veterans through the Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring veterans have access to employment opportunities and support networks. 

Public-Private Collaboration 

Spanberger emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and businesses. From expanding broadband access to addressing workforce challenges, she pointed to public-private partnerships as essential for achieving lasting solutions. Engaging businesses in the legislative process through white papers and research ensures policymakers are informed and equipped to address evolving challenges. 

A Regional Perspective 

Spanberger also reflected on how federal policymakers perceive Virginia and the Greater Washington region. While the proximity of Northern Virginia to federal institutions offers advantages, it can also lead to regional issues being overshadowed by other priorities. Building stronger relationships between regional stakeholders and federal decision-makers is key to advancing collective goals. 

Moving Forward: A Call to Action 

Spanberger’s insights underscore the importance of collaboration and strategic planning to tackle Virginia’s most pressing issues. Whether through policy initiatives, public-private partnerships, or workforce investment, her vision offers a roadmap for creating a vibrant, equitable, and innovative Virginia. 

More policy discussions with the Board of Trade in the months to come

Thank you to Abigail Spanberger for joining us for this important discussion. We look forward to further policy discussions with leaders this spring and summer, including seperate discussions with both Virginia Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears and Maryland Lt. Governor Aruna Miller. We also have a firstside chat on airtificial intelligence with Don Beyer in early-April.

Upcoming Opportunities for Regional Government and Business Leaders:

Join us for our 105th Mid-Winter Dinner, presented by G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc., and enjoy an evening of elegance and entertainment at the Washington National Cathedral! This black-tie gala includes a delicious three-course dinner and allows you the opportunity to mix and mingle among the region’s most prominent business leaders and government officials. This is one of our premier networking events that helps our member and partner organizations fully take advantage of the Board of Trade and its connections with the community that we continue to help grow.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Join us for Coffee & Conversation, where member executives engage in interactive, peer-to-peer discussions on timely topics impacting the business community. These conversations play a vital role in shaping programs and policies that drive the region’s economic resilience, workforce development, transportation systems, technological progress, and overall health and wellness.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Letter of Support: Enable Enhanced Broadband Deployment for Improved Connectivity in Prince George’s County

Posted on by Board of Trade

About This Letter of Support: Greater Washington Board of Trade signed on to this letter of support with our member Crown Castle, which advocates for implementing Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community.

We are writing to advocate for the implementation of Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community. While the County’s Department of Public Works & Transportation and Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement has been engaged since the spring of 2024, we have yet to see movement on its implementation.  

Rapid Connect uses a small moving crew and safety vehicles to simultaneously cut, place, and seal underground fiber. This method meets the highest safety standards, is environmentally conscious, minimizes disruption and community impact, reduces deployment time, and blends seamlessly into our streetscape. As a result of this simplified construction process, Crown Castle can complete fiber construction in weeks instead of months, and at a fraction of the cost.  

Data demand is growing quickly. For instance, it’s expected that mobile data traffic in North America will grow by 150% by 2029. Improved connectivity is crucial for improving access to vital resources and services, including educational opportunities, digital healthcare, connected transportation, public safety and many of the Plan Prince George’s 2035 strategies. As connectivity demands surge, Rapid Connect is the fastest and most effective solution to build networks that can keep pace with each community’s growing needs. In Addition, embracing this type of innovation can help communities become broadband ready and more competitive as states allocate funding. Crown Castle has successfully rolled out Rapid Connect in neighboring communities, including Montgomery County, D.C., and Alexandria.  

We urge the County to support the adoption of Rapid Connect. Modern life depends on broadband access, and Rapid Connect can expand access much faster than traditional construction methods to foster a more connected community and ensure Prince George’s County remains competitive and prosperous. 

Sincerely, 

Ashley Greenspan 

External Affairs – DC, MD & VA 

Crown Castle 

Inauguration Day Regional Safety & Travel Guide

Posted on by Board of Trade

Stay Safe & Connected on Inauguration Day

Local and federal agencies in D.C. continue their preparations for the 60th Presidential Inauguration on Jan. 20, a pivotal time for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington region. This update shares information provided by transportation, government, and business leaders. Pay close attention to the resource links below for real-time information on travel and safety.

View the Public Walking Safety Map provided by Federal Officials

Safety & Transportation Information

Rally ahead of Inauguration Day at Capital One Arena on Jan.19

A rally is scheduled to take place ahead of Inauguration Day at Capital One Arena on Sunday, Jan. 19. According to the DowntownDC BID, which is following a variety of closure and parking information for Downtown residents and businesses, these streets will be closed to vehicle traffic on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from approximately 12:01 a.m. to approximately 6:00 p.m.:

  • 7th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW
  • 6th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW
  • 5th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW
  • G Street from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW
  • G Street from 6th Street NW to 4th Street NW
  • F Street from 9th Street NW to 4th Street NW

Learn more about the rally from here: https://bit.ly/4gV2evM

WMATA sets route and station closures for Inauguration Day

Beginning Sunday, Jan. 19, until Tuesday, Jan. 21, buses will detour daily due to the 60th Presidential Inauguration and specific Metrorail transit stations will be closed in the Downtown area including Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station, Federal Trianlge Station, McPherson Square Station, Mt. Vernon Square/7th Street-Convention Center Station, and the Smithsonian Station.

Please allow additional travel time and avoid the area if possible. Learn about all the closures WMATA has announced here: https://bit.ly/407R1Rl

D.C. Government & Metropolitan Police Department

D.C. officials and leaders will be on high alert for Inauguration Day and the large number of people and activities going on downtown. Inauguration Day is a National Special Security Event, which helps D.C. get better support from federal law enforcement agencies and the military to keep the District safe. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and her office are helping residents in the region better understand traffic restrictions during Inauguration Day, which can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/4g6bkow

In addition, MPD is working with local and federal authorities to keep people in the downtown area safe and is providing updates here. Please report threats and emergencies to 911. Keep your community safe by reporting suspicious activity by calling 202-727-9099, texting 50411, or visiting iwatchdc.org.

Capital Police:

The National Park Service (NPS) has instituted a partial closure in Lafayette Park and along the White House sidewalks for public safety in support of preparation and activities associated with the presidential inauguration. Closures will remain in place through February 2025. The northern part of Lafayette Park remains open for visitors and First Amendment activities. This year, work began Oct. 1 to accommodate additional time needed for a safer and more secure environment for construction activities. The Washington Post has also confirmed that Capitol Police is working with the D.C. National Guard to coordinate response needs better ahead of Inauguration Day.

For those attending Inauguration Day, review this list of prohibited items on U.S. Capitol Grounds: https://bit.ly/40yZIFO

Expect Closure to Museums on National Mall

Most museums on the National Mall in D.C. will be closed on Inauguration Day to help reduce traffic.

Learn more about these closures here: https://bit.ly/40a8pVH

Advice For Downtown Businesses

Sign up to receive real-time alerts from the District on public safety, traffic impacts, and more on election and inauguration updates by visiting alertdc.dc.gov.

ReadyDC has resources to help businesses create emergency plans, protect critical information, and improve your workforce’s personal preparedness efforts. Learn more by visiting ready.dc.gov/business.

Report suspicious activity. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it at iwatchdc.org inform a police officer or call 911 if there is an emergency or you are in immediate danger. Also, keep up-to-date on the latest on Inauguration Day from D.C. Government here.

Driving Regional Progress Together: 2024 Programs & Advocacy Priorities

Posted on by Comms Department

The Greater Washington Board of Trade has long been a powerful voice in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, championing policies that foster economic growth, enhance urban living, and ensure equitable development. Our extensive portfolio of work is demonstrated through a wide range of activities, including high-impact events, strategic communication campaigns, private consultations with key stakeholders, active committee engagements, and advocacy efforts that drive regional progress.

Driving Regional Progress Together

In 2024, we focused on key areas critical to the future of our region: strengthening the business climate, advancing transportation systems, cultivating innovation, and preparing our workforce for tomorrow’s challenges. Each initiative reflects our commitment to fostering collaboration, advocating for policy change, and delivering measurable results.

Improving the Overall Business Climate

A thriving business environment begins with a foundation of safety, infrastructure, and smart policy.

  • Public Safety: We actively supported the Secure DC Crime Bill, collaborating with local governments to enact policies that enhance community safety and create a stable environment where businesses can grow and residents can thrive.
  • Water Infrastructure: Partnering with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) and other regional authorities, we prioritized sustainable water solutions, securing commitments for long-term supply and climate resilience.
  • Downtown Redevelopment: Advocating for urban renewal, we supported D.C.’s Comeback Plan and testified in favor of the BEST Act, and Downtown Arena Revitalization Act which boosts economic activity, revitalizes commercial districts, and supports job creation.
  • Regulatory Environment: We successfully advocated for streamlined processes, including securing authority to extend 5G small cell deployment in D.C., reducing barriers for businesses and driving competitiveness.

Improving Regional Transit and Transportation Systems

A connected region is a competitive region. In 2024, we championed policies that modernize transportation infrastructure and improve mobility across jurisdictions:

  • DMV Moves: As leaders of the Community Partners Advisory Group, we played a key role in advocating for dedicated regional transit funding and integrated transportation systems to reduce congestion and improve reliability for businesses and commuters.
  • I-495 and I-270 Managed Lanes Project: We supported the advancement of Maryland’s managed lanes initiative, promoting solutions that reduce congestion, improve cross-jurisdictional connectivity, and strengthen economic ties across the region.
  • Union Station Modernization: Contributing to plans for one of the region’s most important transit hubs, we supported efforts to transform Union Station into a modern, multi-modal hub that better serves the workforce and businesses.

Positioning Greater Washington as a Leading Innovation Hub

To ensure our region remains a leader in innovation, we advanced policies that accelerate technological adoption and foster collaboration:

  • Disruptive Tech and AI: Promoting innovation, we connected policymakers with industry leaders to advance the adoption of AI and other disruptive technologies, advocating for policies that unlock new opportunities for growth and efficiency.
  • Innovation Ecosystem Mapping: Launched an initiative to map the region’s innovation ecosystem, identifying key players and resources to strengthen collaboration between startups, research institutions, and businesses.

Enhancing Workforce Readiness

Preparing a skilled and adaptable workforce is essential to our region’s economic future.

  • Virginia Workforce Transition: Serving on the Virginia Workforce Transition Stakeholder Advisory Group, we supported the creation of a consolidated statewide workforce system, improving apprenticeship programs and strengthening data-sharing protections to better align skills with employer needs.
  • Pathways to Prosperity: To advance inclusive growth, we convened business leaders, government officials, and nonprofits to strengthen support for minority-owned businesses. By aligning resources across economic development, capital providers, and workforce programs, we are closing opportunity gaps and fostering entrepreneurial success.
  • 5 Generations in the Workforce: We shared best practices to help businesses address the challenges of managing five generations in the workforce, fostering collaboration and inclusivity across age groups.

Building Momentum for 2025

The policy wins and progress achieved in 2024 have created a foundation for even greater success in 2025. In the year ahead, we will continue advocating for regional solutions that strengthen our economy, modernize infrastructure, and build a thriving innovation ecosystem. By addressing emerging challenges and seizing new opportunities, we will ensure Greater Washington remains a resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking region.

Together, we are shaping a future where businesses prosper, communities thrive, and our region leads the way in innovation and growth.

Waterway Economics: Funding increases for region’s Port of Baltimore and Port of Virginia

Posted on by Board of Trade

Our Greater Washington region must continue to invest in all types of transportation and supply-chain infrastructure to ensure our communities and businesses can thrive and adapt in the coming years.

With that, promising news has been announced concerning the two biggest ports that serve our region. Funding for the Port of Baltimore and Port of Virginia will increase after announcements from the federal and state level of U.S. government were made in recent weeks.

President Joe Biden recently announced at the Port of Baltimore that $147 million in awards for the Maryland Port Administration will support jobs by enabling the purchase and installation of zero-emission port equipment, charging infrastructure, and power improvements. It is part of $3 billion in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act that will go towards ports across the country. This is even furthered by the $580 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund 31 port improvement projects in 15 states and one U.S. territory.

As for the Port of Virginia, money from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the amount of $2.4 million for the cities of Norfolk, Newport News, and Portsmouth, all of which are vital communities that support the Port of Virginia and its efforts to serve the region’s commerce and supplies needs. The federal government has also invested $380 million in funding to bolster sustainability efforts that hope to make the port more energy efficient, and this stems from the same money being given to the Port of Baltimore through the Inflation Reduction Act. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. consists of over 360 commercial ports that account for over 95% of cargo containers that come into the country. Additionally, a study from the American Association of Port Authorities, shares that $2.9 trillion in GDP and 21.8 million American jobs stem from our country’s vital port system.

The U.S. economy depends heavily on America’s ports to connect our communities to international trade, facilitating the movement of goods between the country and the global market and generating substantial employment opportunities for workers. This dynamic of impactfulness on the U.S. economy was recently highlighted by the Port of Baltimore worker’s strike that created inflation fears for the region. 

Testimony: Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024 (DC B25-1004)

Posted on by Board of Trade

About this Testimony: The Greater Washington Board of Trade has expressed strong support for the Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024, emphasizing its potential to drive economic development, boost regional vitality, and enhance downtown Washington, D.C. recovery efforts. Highlighting the Capital One Arena’s legacy of hosting over 47 million visitors and 4,500 events since 1997, the Board underscores the significant impact of this district on local businesses, tax revenue, and the city’s cultural fabric.

Dear Chairman Mendelson, 

On behalf of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, I am writing to convey our strong support for the Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024. This legislation presents a significant opportunity to advance economic development, enhance our region, and preserve the dynamic atmosphere of downtown Washington, D.C. This initiative is particularly important as we strive to recover from the economic challenges of recent years.  

The proposed act aligns with the Board of Trade’s mission to advance a prosperous, inclusive, and vibrant regional economy. The revitalization of the downtown arena district, which is home to Capital One Arena and supported by our member organizations, including Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Clyde’s Restaurant Group, Capital One Bank, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), will have a meaningful impact on the region. Since 1997 the Capital One Arean has hosted 47 million people and more than 4,500 events that support local businesses, drives tax revenue, and contribute significantly to the cultural fabric of our city. A revitalized arena district will build upon this success by attracting more visitors, creating new job opportunities, and catalyzing further investment in downtown Washington. 

Our members recognize the critical role that a modernized arena district can play in sustaining and expanding these benefits. For instance, Monumental Sports’ commitment to enhancing the fan and visitor experience will be a boon for tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors, which are vital components of the downtown economy. WMATA also stands to benefit through increased ridership, connecting more residents and visitors with downtown events and activities, and supporting the ongoing financial health of our public transit system. 

We urge the D.C. Council to move forward with this legislation and invest strongly in our community’s future. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to working together to realize the full potential of this bill. 

Thank you for your leadership and commitment to a stronger, more dynamic Washington, D.C. 

Newly elected officials across the Greater Washington region

Posted on by Board of Trade

The Board of Trade’s policy team has tracked high-profile elections across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that help our members and greater business community understand what changes may be coming as policy takes center-stage to start 2025 as chambers open session.

We congratulate the newly elected members of Congress, State Assemblies, and local offices and applaud their commitment to public service and the trust their constituents have placed in them. As the region’s leading non-partisan business organization since 1889, the Board of Trade is dedicated to fostering collaboration on key priorities like transportation, technology, workforce development, and economic sustainability. We look forward to working together to advance initiatives strengthening the Greater Washington region and its business community.

Angela Alsobrooks (D)

U.S. Senator for the State of Maryland

Formerly the County Executive of Prince George’s County.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

April McClain Delaney (D)

Maryland – 6th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Garrett, Allegany, Frederick, and Washington counties. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Sarah Elfreth (D)

Maryland – 3rd District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Anne Arundel and Carroll counties.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Wendell Felder (D)

D.C. Council  – Ward 7

Represents parts of the Anacostia, Hill East, Stadium Armory, and Deanwood neighborhoods of Washington D.C.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Alyia Gaskins (D)

Mayor – City of Alexandria

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Suhas Subramanyam (D)

Virginia – 10th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Rappahannock, Fauquier, and Loudoun counties. Also represents parts of Fairfax County and Prince William County. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Eugene Vindman (D)

Virignia – 7th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Orange, Culpepper, Spotsylvania, Green, Madison, Fredericksburg, Caroline, King George, and Stafford counties. Also represents parts of Prince William and Albemarle counties. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Featured Members