The Anacostia Riverfront project’s transition from a contaminated site to a community and recreational hub provides a model for establishing site qualifications and documenting contamination. Drawing from its experience, documentation should include both current contamination and historical industrial use that contributed to site degradation.

Inspired by the Anacostia’s ecological restoration, redevelopment could aim for enhanced biodiversity through the introduction of native species and sustainable water management practices. Strategies could involve wetland restoration or rain gardens to mitigate pollution runoff, similar to what was achieved along the riverfront to improve local water quality.

Like the mixed use and recreational focus in the Anacostia project, small to medium sites could support community centered uses, integrating public green spaces and mixed-income housing, while larger sites could support regional infrastructure such as transit hubs or flood mitigation. Small site: 1-1,000 acres. Medium site: 1,000-10,000 acres. Large site: 10,000+ acres.

The Anacostia Riverfront’s emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle accessibility, along with its connections to public transit, highlights the potential for enhancing walkability and reducing vehicle dependency, which can be crucial in a brownfield redevelopment project.

The riverfront project preserved historical elements, allowing for educational signage and artistic installations. Similarly, redevelopment efforts could incorporate the historical narratives and cultural resonance of the brownfield site, perhaps through installations or community events that celebrate its transformation.