As the largest development in Washington, D.C.; the second-largest active waterfront development in the United States; and the first significant development in Southwest D.C. in more than 50 years, the Wharf has made a lasting impact as a waterfront neighborhood and destination for residents and visitors alike through its unique and diverse offerings. Through a public/private partnership, this remarkable $2.5 billon, 24-acre (9.7 ha) development along one mile (1.6 km) of the Potomac River’s Washington Channel features new residential, office, hotel, shops, restaurants, cultural, marina, and public uses, including 10 acres (4 ha) of public waterfront parks, promenades, piers, and docks, all designed by a thoughtfully selected group of world-renowned architects and designers. Completed in October 2017, phase one consists of more than 2 million square feet (185,800 sq m) of mixed-use development. When complete, the Wharf will feature more than 3.2 million square feet (297,300 sq m) of space offering something for everyone, with a mix of best-in-class brands, local favorites, concepts by renowned chefs, and shops.

About 30 percent of the Wharf’s rental units are designated as affordable. Phase one includes 200 affordable and workforce housing units and phase two will include an additional 115 units of affordable housing. All residents have access to their respective building’s amenities and services ranging from outdoor terraces, pet-friendly units and spaces such as a dog run, and pools to fitness centers and lounges. In addition to the multifamily rental housing options, the Wharf has affordable condominiums at 525 Water, which features five homes at 50 percent median family income (MFI) and six homes at 80 percent MFI.

In addition to exceeding the affordable housing requirements set by the city, the development team sought to bring economic development and support to local businesses through the construction of the Wharf. Upon completion of the second phase, the Wharf will have generated roughly $70 million annually in taxes for the city. HMW intends to employ District residents in at least half of the created construction and service jobs.

With the long-term ecological and economic benefits in mind, the team has incorporated innovative strategies for sustainable stormwater runoff management such as a cistern system, permeable pavements, and vegetative bioretention; urban access to nature through green roofs, the planting of new trees and preservation of existing trees, as well as floating wetland systems; and sustainable on- site energy production and conservation through multiple co-generation plants and energy-efficient lighting. The Wharf has achieved LEED Gold certification and is targeting LEED Gold or Silver for its individual buildings.

Location: Washington, D.C.
Developer and owner: Hoffman-Madison Waterfront
Development partners: Hoffman & Associates and Madison Marquette