National Landing 2024 Year in Review: Top 10 Highlights
As 2024 comes to a close, National Landing continues to grow as a vibrant community for workers, residents, and businesses—an 18-hour downtown that buzzes with activity both day and night. From transformative developments to memorable community events, here are 10 highlights that helped shape National Landing this year.
10. Breaking Ground on the Long Bridge Project
This year marked the groundbreaking of the Long Bridge Project, a transformative infrastructure initiative that will enhance regional connectivity. The new pedestrian and bike bridge promises to strengthen the link between National Landing and Washington, D.C., further solidifying our area as a gateway to the nation’s capital.
9. East Entrance to the Crystal City Metro
Progress is on track for the much-anticipated Crystal City Metro entrance. This new addition will provide enhanced access and convenience, ensuring smoother commutes for residents, workers, and visitors alike.
8. A Balanced Neighborhood with New Residences
National Landing welcomed several new residential communities this year, including Zoe, Grace and Reva, Hazel and Azure, and Valen. Major investments in office building enhancements throughout our district, including Crystal & Clark, have continued to attract top innovation companies and new headquarters to National Landing. With these additions, our area has achieved a remarkable 1:1 worker-to-resident ratio. This balance reflects our commitment to developing a neighborhood where people can seamlessly live and work, supported by modern amenities and lively green spaces.
7. 14 New Businesses Join the Community
National Landing’s entrepreneurial spirit is stronger than ever, with 14 new businesses opening their doors this year. From boutiques to dining hotspots, including Fat Fish, these additions join a roster of over 50 businesses that have debuted in recent years. Residents can support these businesses through Open Rewards, a local loyalty program that strengthens our community backbone.
6. First Anniversaries for Water Park and Met Park
This year, we celebrated the one-year anniversaries of two cherished green spaces: the revitalized Water Park and Metropolitan Park. Both spaces have become hubs for community programming, offering everything from fitness classes to farmers markets, and exemplify the vibrancy that defines National Landing.
5. 150+ Events Energize the Year
With over 150 events in 2024, National Landing buzzed with activity. Standout moments included Art of Pink, the return of Fridays at the Fountain, and the winter favorite – The Lodge. Relive the magic of The Lodge with this recap video.
4. A Better Biking Connection to D.C.
The completion of Boundary Channel Interchange Improvements included expanded connectivity to the area's bike network providing a seamless and scenic route to Washington, D.C. Cyclists can now enjoy easier access to the city while exploring National Landing’s trails and pathways.
3. Michelin-Starred Flavor Arrives
This year, National Landing’s culinary scene hit a high note with a visit from a Michelin-starred taqueria. The buzzworthy pop-up brought award-winning flavors to our community, showcasing the exceptional dining options that continue to flourish here.
2. First Annual Dog Sweater Competition
Who could forget the inaugural Dog Sweater Competition? This heartwarming event brought residents together to showcase their pups’ stylish winter wear. Congratulations to our winners and all participants who made it a success.
1. Placemaking Toolkit Launch
National Landing unveiled its first-ever Placemaking Toolkit this year, providing a comprehensive guide for fostering vibrant, inclusive public spaces. This milestone represents our dedication to creative urban planning and community development which also include public art and placemaking wins, like the JD Deardorf mural at MVT Trail and Metroway enclosures by Brandon Hill.
Thank you for being a part of the National Landing community. Cheers to a wonderful year ahead!