Where Arts and Entrepreneurship Meet Community: The Anacostia Arts Center Redevelopment Project
With your support, WACIF seeks to transform this community asset into a regional hub for arts, culture, and entrepreneurship, driving economic growth in one of D.C.'s most underinvested areas.
Support the AAC's Next Chapter
WACIF is excited to bring to life the ambitious initiative of reimagining the Anacostia Arts Center (AAC) as a vibrant, modern hub for creativity, entrepreneurship, and community growth.
Why Now?
Historic Anacostia is at a crossroads, with over $1 billion in new development. This growth creates opportunity, but also puts pressure on existing community. We aim to ensure that Anacostia’s creative entrepreneurial spirit not only survives—but thrives.
Current Progress
As of January 2026, the building is closed to the public, and construction is underway on this transformational project. The renovation is being led by a DC-based design-build team grounded in community-centered design: Corenic Construction Group as the construction partner and Drummond Projects as the architect. The local, small business, and artistic community has been at the heart of this redevelopment project from its inception, as building design has been directly informed by the feedback from community listening sessions that took place over the past year. The project is expected to take 9-12 months, with reopening planned for the first Quarter of 2027.
Hard Hat Tour Opportunity
Want to learn more? Join us for an exclusive Hard Hat Tour of our space, a rare opportunity to experience our space during active construction. This is a rare opportunity to experience the transformation in real time and be part of the journey. Email info@wacif.org to learn more.
Your Investment Will:
1) Preserve a Community Anchor: Keep AAC’s open-door tradition alive, offering free and affordable access for residents, entrepreneurs, and artists.
2) Fuel Small Business Growth: Expand HIVE co-working, affordable retail, pop-up markets, workshops, and access to capital—equipping local entrepreneurs to prosper in place.
3) Elevate Arts & Culture: Enhance gallery and performance spaces, support makers, and offer dynamic programming for all ages.
Our Vision:
We will modernize the AAC with state-of-the-art technology, sustainable upgrades, more versatile training and working spaces, expanded gallery and event spaces, and enhanced programmatic offerings for artists and small business owners. This project will strengthen Anacostia’s creative and small business ecosystem for generations to come.
Let’s build a bold future for Anacostia—together. Join Us!