The Harmony Park Designation Act of 2025 aims to symbolically designate the triangle park located between New Jersey Avenue NW and Rhode Island Avenue NW as "Harmony Park." This name honors the Columbian Harmony Society and the nearby Columbian Harmonean Cemetery, reflecting the historical significance of the area and its connection to the African American community in the District. The proposal for this designation originated from resolutions passed by Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANC) 6E and 1B, which recognized the importance of the park's name in celebrating the harmonious relationship among the neighboring wards.
The bill outlines the procedural framework for the designation, referencing the Street and Alley Closing and Acquisition Procedures Act of 1982. It includes a fiscal impact statement and stipulates that the act will take effect following approval by the Mayor, a congressional review period, and publication in the District of Columbia Register. The legislation serves to acknowledge the historical contributions of the Columbian Harmony Society and the significance of the Harmonean Cemetery, which was a burial site for many African Americans in the District before its relocation.