Columbia Heights: From Segregation to Gentrification

Columbia Heights experienced trends of exclusion, renewal, disinvestment, revitalization and gentrification typical of American urban history. The community and city government has done a better job providing affordable housing and resisting displacement in Columbia Heights than other areas of DC, leading to a diverse neighborhood today. However, significant displacement has occurred, and many long-term residents have experienced a disruptive change in community culture.

Columbia Heights is a story of racial and economic flux. It is also a story of mixed outcomes. More recently, the government and community groups have successfully implemented affordable housing initiatives. However, significant gentrification and displacement has occurred. Columbia Heights is in transition, and just as in the past, public policy and racial difference are prime movers in its unfolding spatial reality.

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