The proposed "Supermarket Tax Incentive Expansion Approval Resolution of 2024" aims to broaden the geographic scope of the Supermarket Tax Incentive Program in Washington, D.C. This expansion will include downtown areas and several Northeast neighborhoods, specifically Woodridge, North Michigan Park, Lamond Riggs, Queens Chapel, and Fort Totten. The initiative seeks to provide tax exemptions to grocery stores that establish themselves in these areas, thereby encouraging investment and development in regions that currently lack sufficient access to fresh food options. The Mayor, Muriel Bowser, emphasizes that this expansion is crucial for supporting the District's goal of increasing downtown residency by 15,000 by 2028, as grocery openings typically lag behind housing development, creating a food access gap.

The resolution outlines the benefits of this expansion, including improved access to affordable food for over 23,000 residents in the Northeast neighborhoods, which currently have limited grocery options. By incentivizing supermarket development in these areas, the District aims to recapture grocery spending that currently occurs outside its borders and enhance food access for its residents. The financial implications of the resolution have been reviewed and deemed sufficient for implementation, with no immediate supermarket constructions planned in the newly eligible areas. Overall, the resolution is positioned as a strategic move to foster economic growth, improve food accessibility, and support the District's broader urban development goals.