MANUFACTURING & GLOBAL BUSINESS ATTRACTION

Policy Mission

Ward 5 sits at a unique geographic and economic crossroad — adjacent to freight rail, the New York Avenue corridor, and NoMa’s booming tech ecosystem, coupled with Ivy City’s manufacturing capabilities. Ward 5 will attract advanced manufacturing, logistics, local, and international businesses that create quality union jobs and innovative careers for Ward 5 residents.

Policy Priorities

  • Partner with DMPED to create a Ward 5 Manufacturing Corridor designation along New York Avenue NE and Bladensburg Road corridors and key areas of Ivy City
  • Advocate for manufacturing-protective zoning that prevents industrial-to-luxury conversion without community benefit agreements
  • Attract clean manufacturing in sectors including healthcare devices, electronics, and sustainable goods production
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  • Work with WDCEP and Destination DC to market Ward 5 as a hub for international business
  • Recruit international trade offices, consulate-adjacent businesses, and global logistics firms to New York Avenue NE
  • Host a Ward 5 Global Business Summit annually to connect international investors with local development partners
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  • Establish a Ward 5 Manufacturing Workforce Pipeline in partnership with UDC Community College and DC Infrastructure Academy
  • Negotiate Community Benefits Agreements (CBAs) with incoming manufacturers requiring local hiring minimums of 35–50%
  • Create pre-apprenticeship programs targeting Ward 5 residents without college degrees
  • Advocate for funding for the development of workforce development schools in Ward 5 to ensure adequate training and apprenticeship programs for at-risk youth and adults in need of career development
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  • Require Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) participation plans for all businesses receiving Ward 5 TIF or incentives
  • Create a Ward 5 Global-Local Business Matchmaking Program connecting international firms with MBE/WBE subcontractors
  • Partner with DSLBD to ensure all small businesses are aware of the CBE program and its benefits
  • Curate a Ward 5 RFK awareness initiative, ensuring Ward 5 residents and businesses are ready for new opportunities from stadium development
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Target Sector Attraction Table

Sector
Target Businesses
Ward 5 Location
Job Creation Potential

Advanced Manufacturing

Medical device, clean tech, food production, cosmetics

NY Ave NE Corridor

500–1,000 jobs

Logistics & Distribution

E-commerce fulfillment, freight services, brewery, production

Bladensburg Rd / Ivy City

300–600 jobs

Technology & Data

Cybersecurity, data centers, AI firms

NoMa Adjacent / Fort Lincoln

200–400 jobs

International Trade & Commerce

Embassy trade offices, export-import firms

NY Ave / Union Station Adj.

100–200 jobs

Creative & Arts Industry

Film production, design firms, studios

Ivy City Arts District, Brentwood

150–300 jobs

Healthcare Manufacturing

Pharmaceutical, biotech, health devices

NY Ave / Brentwood

200–400 jobs

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