The Advoc8te doesn't doubt there is an affordable housing crunch in popular neighborhoods like Shaw, Dupont Circle, U Street, and Chinatown ( and they could use more affordable housing). But there is also a significant amount of "affordable" rental housing stock located east of the Anacostia river.  In fact, one could argue there is no "high end" rental properties located east of the river. Most (if not all) of the rental properties in Wards 7 and 8 have income cap restrictions so working class and low-income people should be able to qualify. 

So keeping that in mind, The Advoc8te has to ask, "Does DC have an affordable housing problem or a lack of affordable housing in trendy neighborhoods?" Neighborhoods high in demand that are close to jobs, amenities, and transportation?

I have to follow that question up with a few others. 

What could happen if Ward 7 and Ward 8 were seriously considered as places to live? 

Would investment, jobs, and amenities follow those new renters east of the river?

Would rents west of the river stop skyrocketing if there was less demand for the same space?