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.