CFA 15/APR/04-8

Owner
U.S. Department of Defense
Property
Fort McNair
Description
National Defense University. New Physical Fitness Facility and modification to the Small Area Plan
Review Type
Revised concept-new site
Previous Review

Letter

Dear Mr. Russo:

During its meeting of 15 April 2004, the Commission reviewed the revised concept design and new site for the Physical Fitness Complex for Fort McNair in Washington, D.C. The members found the proposed new location for the facility in the northern portion of Tempo-C area to be more appropriate and approved the new site. The members also approved the revised concept design for the complex, provided that the leading edges of the roof overhangs on the gymnasium are terminated in a straight line, perpendicular to the lower roof, as shown on the model, and not on the outward curving edge as shown in the drawings. In addition, the members requested that the entrance arcade be given additional study as it was felt that its concave curve was out of character with the features of the other historic buildings in the fort. Another suggestion made during the review was to see if additional brick patterning can be incorporated into the building's large flat walls to add more visual interest. Perhaps careful study of the brick patterning used on the fort's other existing historic structures could be useful on achieving the desired effect.

The Commission would like to commend the planning and design teams for the thoroughness of the study that suggested the modifications to the fort's Small Area Plan that will allow this building to be located on the new site. The members look forward to working with the Military District of Washington as additional future projects are developed for Fort McNair. To help facilitate our review of new submissions, we would like to request an inspection trip to the fort before the next submission. The staff is available to coordinate this for the members.

Sincerely,

/s/
Charles H. Atherton
Secretary

John T. Russo, Director,
Public Works and Logistics, FMMC
Military District of Washington Headquarters
204 Lee Avenue
Fort Myer, VA222ll-ll99

cc: Leonard Morton, Engineering Plans and Services Division, FMMC