James Dalpee is one of those Hill rarities we sometimes hear about, but don’t often get to see live and in person. He’s a native! Not just a native DCer, but native to Capitol Hill. He’s also the Executive Director of Barracks Row Main Street, which was one of the first five official DC Main Streets programs. BRMS has been instrumental in the revitalization of the 8th St. SE commercial corridor, and it’s really neat to see someone so young and dynamic at the helm. This week, I asked James to tell us a little more via Five Questions.
Why did you stay on the Hill instead of moving away?
I just moved back here from the West Coast. I was there for 6 years; 4 in Seattle, and 2 in Portland. Ever since I moved out West I knew I wanted to return to DC eventually. When I finished my MBA at Portland State University, it seemed like the opportune time to return home. When I got the job offer on Barracks Row, I knew Capitol Hill was my destiny. I’ve been here 4 months now, and love it.
What’s the best way to spend a weekend on the Hill?
Eastern Market, going out to eat at many of the fabulous restaurants like Cava, Belga, Montmarte, an afternoon at the Capitol Skyline Hotel pool party, walking around enjoying the beautiful neighborhood and view of the Capitol, taking visitors sightseeing around the city.
Are there still “hidden gems” in the neighborhood that remain relatively undiscovered? Do you have a favorite?
I love the down home diner-style brunch at the Tune Inn. No pretensions, just good.
What’s your favorite childhood memory of growing up on the Hill?
Playing on the playground at Turtle Park when I was very little. Later it was Soccer on the Hill and doing theater and taking a wide range of classes at CHAW: piano, dance, art, etc.
Barracks Row has seen a lot of redevelopment in a relatively short amount of time, and has grown in a way that’s allowing local, independent businesses to flourish. Why has there been so much success here (particularly when other neighborhoods in the city seem to struggle with this)?
The founders of Barracks Row Main Street, Linda Gallagher and George Didden, had a very strong vision of what the future could be like here. They were passionate about the revitalization, and determined to make it happen. The streetscape renovation, the first big change, was what lead the way. It made businesses want to come here. Linda and George were forces in making that happen.