2001 Potomac Index Released

The 2001 Potomac Index confirmed that the Washington region has a strong economy well positioned for future growth, a highly educated population and range of vigorous educational, philanthropic and nonprofit activity. It showed strong gains for minorities in homeownership, business ownership and Internet access, as well as improved high school dropout rates and plans for college attendance among District of Columbia public school students. However, the Index raised cautionary flags about the shortage of affordable housing, poor water quality in the Anacostia River, and persistent traffic congestion and air pollution. The index is a product of the Potomac Conference and a research team led by the Brookings Greater Washington Research Program.