The Henry E. Baker Alley Designation Act of 2025 aims to officially designate the alley within Square 2857, bordered by Harvard Street N.W., Sherman Avenue N.W., Girard Street N.W., and 11th Street N.W. in Ward 1, as "Henry E. Baker Alley." This designation honors Henry Edwin Baker for his significant contributions to documenting and promoting the achievements of Black inventors and innovators. Baker, who was the third African American to enter the United States Naval Academy, faced racial discrimination but went on to work at the U.S. Patent Office, where he identified and documented over 1,200 Black innovators, ultimately publishing works that highlighted their contributions.

The bill includes legal language that designates the entire public alley system in Square 2857 as Henry E. Baker Alley, in accordance with the Street and Alley Closing and Acquisition Procedures Act of 1982. The Advisory Neighborhood Commission 1A has expressed its support for this naming through a resolution, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Baker's legacy and the rich history of the Columbia Heights community. The act will take effect following the Mayor's approval and a 30-day congressional review period.