Takoma Langley Crossroads Development Authority was created in 1987 as a 501(c)(6) organization to represent the interests of business and property owners in the Crossroads. Our domain includes all commercial properties along University Boulevard from Merrimac Drive to the eastern boundary of the City of Takoma Park and along New Hampshire Avenue from University Boulevard to Holton Lane.
Our mission is to support and enhance the vitality of the Takoma/Langley Crossroads commercial district through strategic marketing, safety initiatives and collaborative efforts for a welcoming and prosperous business community.
Our vision is to foster a thriving multicultural commercial district developments, cultural vibrancy and community well-being.
Our core values are inclusivity, innovation, stewardship, and community empowerment.
Leadership Insights
Wisdom from Our Community Pillars
One of the things that I am most proud of as a Latina is our resiliency and tenacity – our unwavering disposition to never give up. The Latino immigrant community here in Langley Park is the essence of that.
Silvia Huezo
Our Impact
Security
We work closely with the Takoma Park Police Department to implement safety measures in our district, such as off-duty police patrols and mobile surveillance trailers.
Maintenance
We conduct regular litter pickup, provide upkeep of trees and planters, and organize community clean-up days.
Beautification
We design and fund murals throughout the district and improve the facades of our businesses.
Advocacy
We use our partnerships with the Takoma Park government, Montgomery County, and state-level elected officials to advocate for what we believe is in the best interest of our businesses.
Promotion
We promote our businesses through social media, newsletters, and community events to increase their visibility and engagement.
Technical assistance
We help businesses apply for grants, create Yelp and Google pages, and connect them with community partners who provide more specific technical support.
Staff
JAVIER RIVAS
Executive Director
I am a former entrepreneur and Equitable Economic Development Professional. I owned and operated two businesses in Washington, DC. Like many entrepreneurs, I taught myself the trade – “learning by doing”. Throughout my time running my coffee shops, I enjoyed the process of learning a craft, tackling problems, and constantly finding more efficient ways of achieving my goals. More than anything, I am proud of having been able to run businesses that were centered in community, making long-lasting connections, and helping employees gain confidence, vocational training, and grow personally and professionally.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Virginia. I spent my childhood in El Salvador and have been a resident of the DMV area since 1989. I have lived in the Long Branch Neighborhood of Takoma Park since 2011; now with my wife and daughter (and Quico the dog!). I am a neighbor and community member. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my life and professional experience and follow a path of service and positive impact.
KALYSTA PEREZ
Community Engagement Coordinator and Executive Assistant
I am a recent college graduate from the University of Maryland. During my time in college, I was the ambassador of the U.S. Latina/o Studies (USLT) minor program. Through this experience I developed a deeper understanding of the unique and diverse demographic in the DMV area. Additionally, I made life-long connections with like-minded individuals who are eager to uplift the surrounding Latino/immigrant community.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in USLT. As a second-generation Latina who grew up in the area, I am so proud and excited to serve my community and create positive change.
RACHEL PEARL
Marketing and Social Media Manager
I am a creative professional with a passion for the people in our community. A native Marylander, I’ve worked in the region since 2009 from TV production to dance theater. I’m a lifelong photographer and married my production skills with marketing in 2014. Since then, I have worked with over a dozen businesses in the creative arts and non-profit sectors. Above all, I am a storyteller and everyone in this community has a story to tell.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Film, Television, and Theater Production from a small school north of Baltimore. I’ve lived in California, Prague, South Africa, and managed to make my way to Fort Myers, Florida where I met my husband. We returned to the region within a year and eventually moved to a small farm just south of DC. The only animal on the farm is our cat, Frank. I am thrilled to utilize all my skills and passion for people in support of the Takoma/Langley Crossroads mission.
