Month: November 2025

If you haven’t explored Skyland Town Center yet—or even if you live at Crest and want to know more about the place you call home—here are 7 things that make this growing neighborhood one of the most exciting in Southeast DC.

1. This Has Been in the Works for a Long Time

The idea of revitalizing this stretch of Southeast DC dates back to the 1980s. The community came together in the year 2000 with a clear vision—not just a renovation, but a brand-new shopping center. After years of planning, the first groundbreaking took place on March 12, 2014. Today, that vision is a reality, and it’s still growing.

2. Crest Was a Major Milestone

When Crest at Skyland Town Center opened its doors, it marked the first new market-rate apartment building East of the River in over 40 years. This wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting—it was a turning point for housing options and neighborhood revitalization in this part of DC.

3. The Workforce Center Helped Build It—and Now Calls It Home

To support the community during construction, developers WC Smith and Rappaport created the Skyland Workforce Center, opening it in 2014 directly across the street from the site. The goal? Train local residents for construction jobs and other career paths. Now, a decade later, the Center has moved into Skyland Town Center—bringing the story full circle.

4. You Can Tune Up Your Bike Without Going to Georgetown

Trek Bikes is one of the few places East of the River where you can buy, service, and gear up for outdoor recreation. In fact, it’s Trek’s second and only other DC location—the first being in Georgetown. Whether you’re a casual commuter or serious cyclist, this shop makes biking more accessible for residents across Southeast.

5. Small Businesses Are Getting Big Support

Skyland is home to some seriously craveable food spots, and many of the restaurant owners here have been awarded Food Access Grants from the DC government. Restaurants like Tropical Smoothie Café and Jersey Mike’s are part of a growing movement to expand healthy, affordable food options in underserved areas. When you dine here, you’re supporting more than a local business—you’re backing a mission.

6. This is Where Community Comes Together

Skyland isn’t just a shopping center—it’s become a true gathering space for neighbors, friends, and families.

• In August, the Metropolitan Police Department hosted National Night Out at Skyland, bringing together residents, first responders, and local organizations for a night of community connection.
  
• In September, we welcomed the Can I Kick It? community movie night, with an outdoor screening and DJ-spun soundtrack that transformed the plaza into a cultural hub.
  
• And on December 6th, Soulful Santa is coming to town—bringing holiday cheer to Skyland families of all ages.
  

Want to stay in the loop on more events like these? Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear about our 2026 schedule of community happenings.

7. It’s a Community That Keeps Growing

Skyland Town Center is the largest mixed-use development in Southeast Washington. It’s home to 263 rental apartments at Crest, and an additional 126 townhomes and condos are being built. Retail continues to expand—and yes, that really was comedian Kevin Hart at the Chase Bank ribbon cutting.

Skyland is more than just a shopping center—it’s a destination, a home base, and a community that’s taken decades of vision, planning, and partnership to create.

Whether you’re a Crest resident or just curious about the neighborhood, now’s the time to experience everything Skyland has to offer.