Commissioner Travis R. Swanson

Today’s the day Metro Forward’s BetterBus routes officially rolled out! Just before 1 AM, I rode the inaugural westbound D10 from Randle Highlands to Eastern Market. By pure chance, on my way back I caught the final eastbound 32. A fitting farewell and fresh start all in one ride!

Not sure how your routes changed? Visit: https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/Better-Bus/index.cfm

Yesterday, I was honored to join Mary’s House for Older Adults to celebrate the opening of their first (but certainly not their last) home in the District for LGBTQ+SGL adults.

Mary’s House provides a safe, affirming, and communal space where LGBTQ+SGL seniors in Washington, D.C. can thrive while living authentically. I’m especially proud that their first location is in ANC 7B.

Huge shoutout to Dr. Imani Woody for her incredible vision and tireless perseverance to make this long-awaited dream a reality.

Washington, D.C. has long been recognized as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the nation—back in 2013, the New York Times dubbed us the “gayest place in America,” and just last year, the UCLA Williams Institute reported that more than 14% of Washingtonians identify as LGBTQ—nearly double the percentage of the next highest state.

We love to see spaces like Mary’s House opening right here in our community, ensuring that LGBTQ+SGL seniors—who’ve given so much to our city’s history and culture—can age and thrive in place with dignity and pride.

Welcome to the neighborhood—I can’t wait to meet our new neighbors!