Dear Washingtonians,  

In the aftermath of this week's snow, DC’s third largest snowstorm over the past decade, I want to thank and recognize the many DC Government employees and community members who worked together to ensure our city could stay open, our kids could get back to school, and we could fulfill our role as the host of multiple national events, including a beautiful and inspirational service for President Carter.   

Here are some highlights of those collective efforts: 

• The Department of Public Works mobilized 700 snow team members for snow removal efforts. Equipped with over 200 plows, DPW covered more than 4,440 lane miles, applying salt and brine to roads across DC.  

• Crews from the District Department of Transportation plowed nearly 40 miles of protected bike lanes and three miles of the Metropolitan Branch Trail. 

• More than 250 employees from the Department of General Services salted, treated, and cleared sidewalks around District facilities, such as schools, fire stations, and police stations. 

• And thank you to you – the community – for helping your neighbors. If you called the Shelter Hotline, thank you. Additionally, nearly 500 people signed up to become Snow Team Heroes and help seniors and neighbors with disabilities clear their sidewalks, steps, and walkways. And I know many other residents may not have signed up for the program, but you also checked on neighbors and helped clear sidewalks in your neighborhoods.   

But the work continues. Our Snow Team will be out again this evening, monitoring the conditions. Please continue to clear your sidewalks if we get more snow accumulation. The team at the Department of Public Works is also working through the weekend to collect trash, with the goal of restoring normal trash and recycling collection by Monday, January 13.  

Let’s continue to look out for one another as we move through the winter season. It is still very cold outside, so if you encounter someone in need of free, accessible transportation to a shelter, please call the Shelter Hotline at (202) 399-7093 or dial 311. And the District Snow Team is still accepting volunteers to help keep our city shoveled, safe, and accessible for all Washingtonians.  

Sincerely,

Ready to make an impact and kickstart a meaningful career? The HBCU Public Service Program is designed for graduating seniors from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) ready to launch careers in public service.

A partnership between the DC Department of Employment Services, Howard University, and the University of the District of Columbia, this program offers a year-long apprenticeship with DC government agencies. Participants gain hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development, culminating in full-time positions.  

To qualify, applicants must graduate in December 2024 or Spring 2025 and obtain DC residency within 180 days of hire.  

• Applications due: Friday, January 24
• Learn more at: skillsnation.org/hbcu-public-service 

Experience the vibrant creativity of Washington, DC at the Touchstone Gallery’s latest exhibition, showcasing works from 51 influential local artists. 

• When: Now through Sunday, February 9
• Where: The Touchstone Gallery, 901 New York Ave NW 
• For more information and hours: visit touchstonegallery.com