Greenbelt

As part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, the town of Greenbelt was the first and largest experimental "ideal" community.

One of three green towns established during the Great Depression, the town was planned and built by the federal government; despite opposition, the project put struggling Americans to work, provided low-income housing to the overcrowded D.C. region, and was a bold experiment in town planning and cooperative living. Its first residents enjoyed modern homes, schools, a pool, movie theater, library, and a town center--all within walking distance from your modern, new home. Despite nearly doubling in size to accommodate World War II-era housing and steady growth through the second half of the 20th century, Greenbelt's original streamlined architecture, ample green space, and innovative design have been preserved and recognized as a National Historic Landmark. After 75 years, the city continues to thrive as it looks towards sustainability and the future.