Letter
Dear Mr. Lott:
In its public meeting of 15 September conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed the final design for a new public park spanning the Anacostia River at 11th Street, SE, to be built on the piers of the demolished 11th Street Bridge. The Commission expressed strong support for the final design, approving the submission contingent upon the resolution of several issues.
The Commission members commended the bridge park project as thoughtful and visionary, complimenting the overall strength of the design, which promises to provide an innovative and equitable public space at a key crossing over the Anacostia River; they also cited the excellence of the robust and continuing engagement with the adjacent communities for the design and future programming of the park. However, they requested additional information on several topics, including how certain areas of the park, such as the amphitheater and the central plaza, will be protected from wind and noise, and how plantings will be used to mitigate environmental impacts resulting from the adjacent vehicular bridge. They requested further documentation of how the goals of inclusivity and accessibility will be met for all visitors, with attention to the convenience of parking and access; the availability of fully inclusive restroom facilities; and the provision of additional seating with backs and armrests, as well as seating areas accessible to people in wheelchairs.
In its approval action, the Commission delegated completion of the final review process to the staff; please coordinate the resolution and submission of documentation addressing the Commission’s comments with the staff which, as always, is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Everett Lott, Director
D.C. Department of Transportation
250 M Street, SE
Washington, DC 20003
cc: Scott Kratz, Building Bridges Across the River
James Guinther, WRA
Jason Long, OMA
Hallie Boyce, OLIN