November 20, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: David Carson Lipscomb
202-727-5820 office
WASHINGTON, D.C.: Councilmember Jim Graham (D-Ward One) was joined today by representatives from DC USA and several city agencies to announce plans for Black Friday.
“This is the first Black Friday since this neighborhood shopping center opened in March,” Councilmember Graham said. “We are happy to offer residents a unique holiday shopping option inside the District. We have worked diligently to accommodate shoppers when stores open at 5 a.m.”
Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving and generally the day when retail stores in the U.S. generate their highest sales.
Representatives from DC USA, Metropolitan Police, Metro/WMATA, the Department of Transportation and the Development Corporation of Columbia Heights worked with Councilmember Graham to prepare for the thousands of shoppers expected to visit DC USA.
Councilmember Graham, a voting member of the Metro/WMATA board, has secured the early opening of Metro at 4 a.m.
Other plans include store specific lines for early bird shoppers, access to restrooms before stores open and street entertainers for patrons in outdoor lines.
“We are excited to start what we hope to be an annual tradition for residents of Columbia Heights and shoppers across the District,” said DC USA Building Operations Manager David Stein. “We hope shoppers will visit DC USA not only on Black Friday but throughout the holiday season.”
DC USA is a 500,000 square foot shopping center anchored by a two-level, 180,00 square foot Target. The center features more than a dozen other stores including Best Buy, Marshalls, Bed Bath & Beyond and a Washington Sports Club.
“DC USA brings new retail to Columbia Heights and to the District,” said DCCH President and CEO Robert Moore. “The sales and employment taxes generated are a significant benefit at a time when new jobs and revenue are vital to the District.”
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