Dupont Underground

MISSION To revitalize the abandoned trolley station beneath Dupont Circle for presenting, producing, and promoting cutting-edge arts, architecture, design, and creative endeavors. VISION To establish a cultural destination in the nation’s capital that partners with emerging voices in contemporary arts and architecture; encourages public participation, education, and engagement; and leverages development of the Dupont Underground as a catalytic force for the city in the 21st century. STRATEGIC GOALS To drive discussion about the essential role of contemporary arts and architecture in the District of Columbia by presenting groundbreaking work and hosting temporary exhibitions and events that challenge artists, designers, and audiences. To contribute to the ongoing evolution of Dupont Circle as a vital public space that engages D.C.’s diverse residents and visitors. To foster a cultural identity unique to the nation’s capital by partnering with local and international artists and architects and offering a public platform for emerging voices and new audiences. +++++ The Dupont Underground is transforming a forgotten space beneath D.C.’s iconic Dupont Circle into a cultural destination. Opened in 1949 as a trolley station, 75,000 s.f. of underground platforms and tunnels were closed off in 1962, when the city’s streetcar system shut down. Other than use as fallout shelter in the late '60s and hosting a short-lived food court in the mid-'90s, the space has remained empty. Until now. In late 2014, the Dupont Underground signed a five-year lease for the entire space. We plan on activating it in many ways: • art & design exhibitions • public arts performances • community events • pop-up retail & dining • creative economy incubators • demonstrations of emerging technologies • film/TV/commercial photography shoots In addition, we are working on long-term plans to permanently redevelop all 75,000 s.f. as a mixed-use cultural destination.