DC Government

“Dear PoPville,

After losing my DC retail manager job due to COVID-19 closures, I filed for unemployment insurance (UI) in DC in mid-March on the DOES website, and was approved quite quickly, and have continued to file every week for UI every week since mid-March.

With the CARES Act passed by Congress at the end of March, an additional $600 per week was to be added to whatever people qualified for with UI. My original UI amount was $200; I still have a part-time job based in Maryland that I can do remotely, and with that pay I make just too much to receive for any UI money in DC. But according to these DOES calculations  (see question 8), with the additional $600, I should get a total of $800 in UI, and after subtracting what I make with my Maryland job and taxes on UI, I should get around $400. (more…)


Dear PoPville

A reader reports: “Dodge Chargers(?) Part II. They came back yesterday [Sunday] around 7 pm. 4th and I street NW intersection. 2 red cars (one with white stripes down the top of the car and looked like NY plates), 1 gray, 1 black.

Not sure if that’s why this FBI Car patrolled the block after they spun through.”


Dear PoPville


Photo by Pablo Raw

“Dear PoPville,

I’m a total newbie to roller skating (trying to keep my brain and body active), and just bought some quads this week. Are there any roller skaters in DC that have suggestions for socially-distant locations to practice? Obviously the rinks are closed, and I don’t want to risk tearing up any tennis courts, but am looking for a smoother surface + low traffic area as I expect to fall a lot.

Would prefer around SW, but can drive if necessary!”


Sponsored

This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

1416 Geranium Street NW
1416 Geranium Street NW

DC Open House List for This Weekend: May 15, 2026

Spring is in full bloom across the District this weekend, and with over 354 open houses across the city, there’s no shortage of places to wander into between brunch and an afternoon stroll along the Potomac. Whether you’re house-hunting in earnest or just curious to peek behind a few front doors, it’s the perfect weekend to step inside. To see the full DC Open House list, click here.

  • 1416 Geranium St NW — $1,100,000 — Shepherd Park
    Open Fri. 5-7PM, Sat. & Sun. 2-4PM — Jason Lallis
    “1416 Geranium Street NW — Spanish/Mediterranean Style in Shepherd Park. Tucked into one of Northwest DC’s most established neighborhoods, this Spanish/Mediterranean-inspired stucco home stands apart from the typical DC housing stock. With its classic clay tile roof, clean lines, and warm architectural character, it offers a rare blend of design and livability. Inside, 9’+ ceilings and hardwood floors create a bright, open feel throughout the main level. The living space is anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and framed by oversized windows, bringing in natural light and enhancing the home’s inviting flow.”

  • 3422 Pennsylvania Ave SE — $939,900 — Hillcrest
    Open Sat. 12-2PM — Stephanie Cooper
    “Price Improvement. Assumable FHA Loan at 4.875%. Welcome to your dream home on Pennsylvania Avenue — a stunning, thoughtfully renovated four-level, 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence that seamlessly blends timeless charm with modern luxury in the heart of the Hillcrest/Penn Branch neighborhood. From the moment you arrive, the transformation is undeniable. The refreshed exterior, highlighted by premium Hardie board siding and a newly constructed Trex front porch, creates an inviting first impression and a stylish outdoor retreat.”

  • 5309 14th St NW — $1,095,000 — 16th Street Heights
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “Beautifully updated and well-maintained Tudor home in desirable 16th St Heights neighborhood, featuring 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, lovely & spacious living spaces, a huge lot, and a two-car garage. Best of both urban convenience and calming residential vibes. The main level offers a comfortable living room with wood-burning fireplace, a dining room, a gorgeous sunroom facing the backyard, a powder room, and a renovated kitchen that boasts newer Calacatta Laza Quartz countertops, Williamsburg white shaker cabinets, brushed champagne and bronze hardware and stainless-steel appliances.”

  • 50 Florida Ave NE #725 — $624,900 — Eckington
    Open Sat. 1-3PM — Mandy Hursen & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “Elevated city living at The Lexicon, NoMa’s premier full-service building! This home comes complete with garage parking ($45K value) and extra storage ($10K value) included. Perched on the coveted NW corner of the 7th floor, this 2BR/2BA stunner delivers front-row views of downtown DC. Inside, it’s all clean lines and modern luxury—floor-to-ceiling windows, wide-plank white oak floors, and a sleek open layout designed for real living and effortless entertaining. The kitchen impresses with GE stainless steel appliances, gas range, Calacatta quartz, and an oversized island.”

  • 1349 Otis Pl NW — $974,900 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3PM — Kevin Wood
    “Welcome to 1349 Otis Place NW, a classic 3BR/2BA Wardman house that beautifully blends historic Washington character with modern sustainability and convenience in the heart of Columbia Heights. Showcasing the timeless craftsmanship and original charm that define Wardman houses, the property features rich architectural details alongside energy-efficient solar panels and a detached garage complete with an EV charging station. The house offers exceptional outdoor living with a welcoming front yard, a covered front porch, a large private rear patio and deck perfect for entertaining, and a separate front basement entrance.”

  • 3612 Jamison St NE — $835,000 — Fort Lincoln
    Open Sat. 2-4PM & Sun. 1-3PM — Brittany Dixon
    “Welcome to this beautifully maintained and thoughtfully updated townhome in the sought-after The Reserves at Dakota Crossings, where modern comfort meets a peaceful, community-oriented setting. Offering 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths across four well-designed levels, this home delivers exceptional space, flexibility, and style. At the heart of the home, the expansive kitchen shines as a true centerpiece, remodeled in 2024 with striking white quartz countertops, abundant cabinetry, and generous prep space. The open-concept main level is ideal for everyday living and entertaining.”

  • 508 Kenyon St NW — $849,900 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 2-4PM — David Bediz
    “Welcome to 508 Kenyon St NW — a beautifully renovated four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath rowhome on a charming tree-lined street in the heart of Park View. Thoughtfully updated across three finished levels, this home offers the perfect blend of modern style, flexible living space, and income-generating potential. The main and upper levels have been extensively renovated since purchase, featuring freshly refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint, and stylish modern finishes throughout. The updated kitchen showcases sleek two-tone cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, contemporary tilework, and direct access to the private rear patio and secure off-street parking for two cars.”

  • 567 Ingraham St NE — $689,995 — Riggs Park
    Open Sun. 11AM-1PM — Michele Collison
    “Walk to the Metro from this Riggs Park rowhouse that offers the perfect blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. This 4 bedroom/3.5 baths also has an au-pair suite and is close to a public library, restaurants and shopping. Built in 1955 and meticulously maintained, this home stands as a testament to timeless design and quality craftsmanship. This contemporary residence provides ample space for both relaxation and entertaining. As you step inside, you are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by the rich brick exterior that exudes character and charm.”

  • 332 N Street SW — $350,000 — Waterfront
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Joseph Himali
    “Own a world-renowned architect’s masterpiece for under $4,500 a month! Charles Goodman’s River Park is one of Washington’s great mid-century treasures, conceived by the Reynolds Aluminum Company to prove what modern design and materials could achieve. This stunning three-bedroom, three-level townhouse is the proof, and it can be yours for less than most people pay for a two-bedroom apartment. The bright main level features refinished hardwood floors, custom electric roller shades, sliding glass doors to a private fenced patio, and WiFi-enabled Lutron recessed lighting.”

  • 3450 Summit Ct NE #3450 — $335,000 — Fort Lincoln
    Open Sat. 12-2PM & Sun. 1-3PM — Mandy Hursen & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “Completely renovated penthouse condo delivers space, style, and value in one irresistible package. Step inside to a light-filled home with soaring vaulted ceilings and skylights that make every day feel open and airy. The expansive two-bedroom layout offers true flexibility, while newer flooring throughout keeps everything feeling fresh, modern, and move-in ready. The kitchen and bath have been fully renovated with clean, contemporary finishes that elevate the entire space. A cozy woodburning fireplace adds warmth and character, while the oversized private balcony—stretching the full length of the home—sets the scene for relaxing afternoons.”

  • 2412 17th St NW #305 — $575,000 — Kalorama
    Open Sat. 11:30AM-1:30PM — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “Welcome to one of DC’s most sought-after neighborhoods and this sun-drenched, two-bedroom, one-bathroom condo. With hardwood floors and crisp, neutral tones, this contemporary home is truly move-in ready. The open floor plan creates an effortless flow between the living and dining areas — ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying the expansive feel. The gourmet kitchen boasts new flooring, Silestone quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, maple cabinets, and a great flow. High ceilings and large windows with custom shades flood the space with natural light throughout the day.”

  • 1512 F St NE #2 — $599,900 — Kingman Park
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Mandy Hursen & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “A bright and airy two-level condo that feels more like a private home, offering nearly 1,400 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Step inside to soaring ceilings, rich Brazilian wood floors, and refined contemporary finishes that blend sophistication with everyday comfort. The standout kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, a stylish backsplash, generous cabinetry, and a breakfast bar for four—ready for everything from quiet mornings to lively gatherings. With 3 bedrooms and 3 full baths, the layout is as flexible as it is functional, including a main-level bedroom and bath plus upstairs laundry for everyday ease.”


Dear PoPville

“Dear PoPville,

I live in Ward 1 and am in the processing of purchasing my vehicle that is at the end of its lease. I have not changed my out of state plates since moving here because it was leased through another state. Once the title transfers over from the dealership to my name, I intend to switch my plates, registration, and license to DC.

I was recently self quarantining with my girlfriend, who lives in Ward 4, and received a parking violation for having out of state plates and registration. The officer that wrote the violation – who coincidentally lives in her apartment building – first took note of my car in March and recently gave me a violation at the end of April. (more…)


Bars


1334 U Street, NW

Thanks to Matt for sharing the Codmother‘s GoFundMe:

“Hello friends and family!

As you know, COVID-19 has been a huge blow to small businesses everywhere. From a recent survey of 1,500 small business owners in the U.S., more than 50% said that they may not be able to continue after 3 months in the current state caused by the pandemic. They were surveyed in March and it is now May, so time is starting to run out for many of us. While a limited reopening could definitely help us out, we also have to consider the health risks involved. As a staff of five working in close quarters, it is more important to us to guarantee the safety of each of us as well as our customers and that’s how we find ourselves here.

We applied for the small business recovery grant and we were only given $1,000 to stay afloat, compared to the astronomical amounts corporate america received!

We are asking for some support for the “shittiest” bar in D.C., where everyone belongs. The bartender knows your name, because we are all taking our shots together. Everyone has a moment here that makes for the best of stories later. (more…)


Event

Join us for an enjoyable evening tasting a wide variety of wines, spirits, craft brews, and other beverages from the Land of the Hellenes… all to benefit the trees! We have brought together an impressive collection of brands that are committed to sustainability, and a splendid time is guaranteed for all.

ForestPlanet is a 501(c)3 organization that supports large scale, low cost-per-tree reforestation efforts all over the world. We help plant trees where they bring the most benefit to the region’s soil, habitat, the global environment, and local communities.


1000 words

We first noted this protest on May 1st. According to Freightwaves:

“A convoy of around 70 small-business truckers convoyed to the nation’s Capitol around 2:30 a.m. on Friday, May 1, to protest low freight rates amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The group plans to remain parked along Constitution Avenue until May 4 in hopes of attracting the attention of President Donald Trump about the plight of small-business truckers, said Scott Jordan of Peculiar, Missouri, and owner of Powerhouse Transportation.”

Thanks to Alex for sending the photo above from 6:50am this morning. It’s obviously now May 11th so not clear how long they’ll be there.


16th St Heights


via google maps

From MPD:

“On May 10, 2020, at approximately 1:23am in the 5500 block of Colorado Avenue NW, a suspect fired two gunshots. MPD units quickly converged on the area and located ballistic evidence on scene. There were no reports of injury or property damage.

Anyone with information regarding this offense is encouraged to contact MPD at (202) 727-9099.”


Map


interactive map also embedded below

Huge thanks to Molly for sharing some perspective on the District’s neighborhoods coronavirus map:

“I’m following up about providing some more details and explanation about my DC COVID map that’s weighted by population. There had been some discussion about wanting to see a version of the map that controlled for population in the comments on your daily data posts this week, and I was really curious so I spent some hours correlating the census tract data against the ‘neighborhood’ COVID map that the city started publishing earlier this week. I would say I’m semi-professional when it comes to things like this–as in, I have professional training but it’s not what I usually get paid to do these days. So I’d call this a citizen data science effort!

The city has been reporting coronavirus data by Ward throughout the crisis. They recently added a report for positive cases by “neighborhood”. The city’s neighborhoods are made up of groupings of DC census tracts (standardized geographic areas) so may not align with what we commonly consider neighborhood boundaries. If you want to look at the city’s neighborhood classifications more closely, zoom in on this pdf map.

The city reports the total number of positive cases per neighborhood in their daily reports. However, some neighborhoods have a much higher population than others. If 200 people are sick, it’s important to know whether it’s 200 out of 2,000, vs. 200 out of 20,000. To provide this perspective, I created a map graphic that can show us the rate of cases in each neighborhood, with an interactive map here:

This way isn’t necessarily “better” than the city’s way of showing it, but I personally find it helpful to understand the extent of the outbreak relative to population. (more…)