CFA 16/FEB/06-4

Location

Frances C. Perkins Building
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
United States

Owner
U.S. General Services Administration
Property
Frances C. Perkins Building, Department of Labor
Description
Department of Labor, Perimeter security along Constitution Avenue frontage
Review Type
Concept

Letter

Dear Mr. McGill:

In the last meeting of 16 February, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed the concept for the perimeter security along Constitution Avenue, NW, in front of the Frances C. Perkins Building. While the Commission members were generally receptive to the proposed security perimeter within the building yard, the security treatment at the stairway requires additional study. They suggested that more solutions be proposed, possibly to include a more substantial modification of the stairway with alternatives provided for review by the Commission. The options could include reducing the width of the single stairway or incorporating a large planter in the center of the stairway to create two separate paths to the building entrance.

In addition to presenting multiple alternatives at the next review, the Commission members requested that the designers address concerns previously raised including: any requirement for handrails, the removal of skateboard deterrent features, and the coordination of new signs with the previously approved GSA "First Impressions" sign. As always, the Commission staff is available should you require further guidance.

Sincerely,

/s/

Thomas Luebke,AIA
Secretary

Michael McGill
Special Assistant for Regional Coordination
U.S. General Services Administration
National Capital Region
301 7th Street, SW
Washington, DC 20407-0001

cc: Donald Gangloff, Oudens + Knoop Architects