The LAI George Washington Chapter welcomed members and guests for an insightful luncheon featuring Malaika Scriven, Vice President of Planning & Development, and Ashley Shook, AICP, Planning & Economic Development Senior Manager with the National Landing Business Improvement District (BID). The presentation explored how National Landing is transforming into one of the nation’s leading innovation districts through strategic planning, public-private partnerships, and targeted investments.
The speakers introduced National Landing—the unified urban district encompassing Crystal City, Pentagon City, and Potomac Yard—and discussed how its exceptional regional accessibility, strong transportation network, and diverse mix of businesses, residents, and institutions provide a strong foundation for innovation and economic growth. They highlighted the BID’s role in advancing mobility, placemaking, economic development, branding, and community programming to create a vibrant and competitive destination.
Attendees learned about the district’s remarkable transformation, supported by approximately $12 billion in public and private investment, millions of square feet of existing and planned office space, thousands of residential units, parks, bike lanes, and a highly educated workforce. The presentation also highlighted the catalytic impact of Amazon HQ2, Virginia Tech’s Innovation Campus, and numerous technology, defense, and research organizations that are helping establish National Landing as a premier innovation hub.
A key focus of the presentation was defining what makes a successful innovation district. Drawing on national best practices, the speakers explained that thriving innovation districts combine talented people, academic institutions, businesses, mixed-use development, quality public spaces, transit accessibility, and strong partnerships. National Landing has benchmarked itself against leading innovation districts such as Kendall Square, Mission Bay, Tech Square, University City, and South Lake Union to guide its long-term strategy.
The presenters also shared encouraging market trends, including continued job growth in professional and technology sectors, strong residential development, increased retail activity, and significant investments in multimodal transportation and community programming. These efforts are creating a balanced, walkable district that supports innovation while enhancing quality of life for residents, workers, and visitors alike.
The luncheon provided valuable insights into how thoughtful planning, collaboration, and sustained investment can transform an established urban area into a globally competitive innovation district. The LAI George Washington Chapter thanks Malaika Scriven and Ashley Shook for an informative presentation and extends its appreciation to everyone who attended and supported another successful networking and educational event.