Benning

Situated in Washington’s Ward 7, the tiny triangle that comprises Benning may not look like much on a map but stroll the streets, and you’ll see there’s more than meets the eye. From longtime residents that know and look out for one another to a wide range of community resources, Benning is a community that cares. Within its borders are the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington leadership offices, the DC Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, a Unity Health Care Center and the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization, a nonprofit promoting home ownership and community development.

Benning is primarily residential with most of the urban amenities located at the northern tip and several apartment complexes occupying the eastern section of the neighborhood. Midcentury modern brick row houses and semi-detached homes ranging from around 1,000 up to 2,000 square feet comprise much of the housing market. Characterized by simple architecture and flat roofs, many of these homes are dressed up with painted facades, recessed or enclosed porches, brightly colored awnings, and tidy fenced yards. Most homes, including a selection of single-family homes, were built between 1940 and 1960, but the neighborhood wears its age well, as mature trees create an inviting greenway along the wide, sidewalk-lined streets.

For homebuyers, Benning’s price points are hard to beat. “Overall, I feel like this neighborhood is one of just a few in the city where you’ve got solid, single-family, non-condo product options for under $500,000 right now which is a really desirable price point for DC,” says Harrison Beacher, a Realtor and Managing Partner with Coalition Properties Group. While larger or more elaborately updated homes sell over the $500,000 mark, Beacher points out, “You can still find bang for your buck with homes that have at least two full bathrooms and over 1,000 square feet of living space above grade.”

Many Benning residents have lived there for decades, choosing to renovate rather than move. And it’s no wonder given the neighborhood’s friendly suburban feel, walkability, easy freeway access and ample public transport, including the Benning Road Station Metro where you can pick up the Blue and Silver lines.

Families also have a special advantage thanks to the neighborhood’s premier charter schools, DC Prep Benning Elementary and Middle Schools. The elementary school serves children through third grade and boasts high marks from Niche, including an A-minus rating for academics and an A-plus for teachers. Likewise, DC Prep Benning Middle School has an A- and A-plus rating for academics and teachers respectively with a college-focused curriculum and personalized high school placement for fourth through eighth graders. Applications are required, so if you prefer the noncharter route, Smothers Elementary, Kelly Miller Middle and Woodson High School are nearby.

When it comes to activities, the Dorothy I. Height Neighborhood Library delivers. This modern building features local art, study/meeting rooms, computers, special events and, of course, plenty of books. If it’s green space, walking trails or playgrounds you’re looking for, head to nearby Fort Chaplin Park, Fort Mahan Park or the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Finally, for a more festive feel, the Minnesota Avenue corridor at Minnesota Avenue and Benning Road Northeast is home to downtown Ward 7. As one of the largest historic commercial districts in the area, you’ll find community events like the annual “Ward 7 Day” celebration and visual and performing arts festivals.

For shopping, the East River Park Shopping Center, also in the Minnesota Avenue corridor, offers a Safeway, a CVS and other retail staples. You can even stock up on farm-fresh fruits and vegetables when the Minnesota Avenue Farm Stand sets up in the center’s parking lot on Thursday afternoons from June to November. Northeast Heights, a new development with mixed-use retail and office space brings even more vitality and convenience to the area.

Want local flair? Be on the lookout for Benning’s brightly colored murals or head to the historic “Shrimp Boat,” a 1950s hotspot for fresh seafood. Today, Shrimp Boat Plaza is a neighborhood landmark, carrying on its seafood and soul food legacy while welcoming new clientele with a Ledo’s Pizza. Locals also stop at Yum’s Carryout for traditional Chinese dishes and specialty items like the Steak and Cheese Egg Rolls. Additional options include burgers and subs, most with a price tag under $10.

With ever-growing urban convenience, a friendly suburban sensibility and a wealth of community resources, you’ll want to keep your eye on this Ward 7 pocket because the future looks bright indeed.

Written By

Anna Strock

Photography Contributed By

Jack Adams

Video By

Zoe Sarris