Policy & Advocacy Statements

Greater Washington remains one of the most congested regions in the country—a challenge amplified by the transformation of the federal government and the rise of disruptive technologies. These forces are reshaping our economy and communities and accelerating the need for a transit system built for a digital, fast-moving world.

New capital funding would generate $460 million annually in dedicated, bondable capital for Metro beginning FY2028, addressing long-standing funding gaps to keep the system safe and modern. Furthering modernization and financial stability for Metro is important for growing our economy and workforce to meet the future needs of this region.

The Board of Trade applauds the Transportation Planning Board’s decision this week to defer action on the I-495 Southside Express Lanes project — a step that reflects real progress toward a coordinated, forward-looking transportation strategy for our region.

The Board of Trade testified a second time before the D.C. Council and sent a letter to Council Chairman Phil Mendelson in support of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s proposal to bring the Washington Commanders back to the District as part of a larger mixed-use redevelopment of the RFK site.

This letter expresses strong support for the proposed I-495 Southside Express Lanes project, citing its potential to ease congestion, support transit, and strengthen regional competitiveness. The letter highlights the project’s preservation of free lanes, addition of high-occupancy toll lanes, and integration of multimodal infrastructure including express bus service, biking, and pedestrian access. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining right-of-way for future Metrorail expansion and notes that the project delivers critical improvements without new taxes.

The Board of Trade provided testimony before the D.C. Council in support of the Mayor’s proposal to bring the Washington Commanders back to the District as part of a broader mixed-use redevelopment of the RFK stadium site.

In this letter to the WMATA and WMSC Boards, the Greater Washington Board of Trade urges the establishment of a formal process for resolving disputes over proven transit safety technologies, citing the years-long delay in approving Automatic Train Operation.

Letter of Support to the United States House of Representatives (including House Speaker Mike Johnson, and both Senate and House members that represent Greater Washignton) commending congressional leadership for advancing the District of Columbia Fiscal Autonomy Act to the House floor.

This testimony was submitted to the D.C. Council’s Committee on Executive Administration and Labor. It addresses D.C.’s economy and the need for a modern and regionally aligned workforce system.

Submitted testimony to the United States House of Representatives showing strong support for the District of Columbia Local Funds Act of 2025 (S. 1077), a bipartisan bill that protects D.C.’s authority to spend its locally raised revenue, without cost to the federal government.

Submitted testimony to the District of Columbia Council’s Committee on Business and Economic Development for the hearing titled Building a Resilient Economy: Strategies for the District’s Future Growth, Investment, and Stability.

This letter was sent to both Governor Wes Moore of Maryland and Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia to rally support for the reconstruction of the American Legion Bridge.

Letter to Senator John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson expressing deep concerns over House Concurrent Resolution 14 (H.Con.Res.14) and its potentially devastating impact on the region’s economy and budget funding for Washignton, D.C.

This letter advocates for implementing Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community.

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.

Support of small cell infrastructure deployment in Washington D.C. to expand 5G internet access, which will provide better wireless service for first responders, allow for better education resources for students, and help grow community connectivity.

The Board of Trade testified during a hearing on Mayor Bowser’s “Addressing Crime Trends (ACT) Now Amendment” focusing on addressing organized retail theft in the District.

Submitted testimony on May 9, 2024, in favor of fully supporting the BEST Act, which was before the D.C. Council’s Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection Oversight Hearing before the Committee on Public Works and Operations. This piece of legislation would help spark economic equity and allow for a community that fosters entrepreneurship, which is much needed to help spark economic growth in the Greater Washington region.

testified in front of the Maryland General Assembly Appropriations Committee to encourage full support of HB198 – funding WMATA to support the region’s vital public transit system.