Letter
Dear Mr. Berry:
In its meeting of 17 July, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed the Comprehensive Facilities Master Plan for the Smithsonian Institution's National Zoological Park, Rock Creek Site. The Commission members supported the Smithsonian's planning goals for the National Zoo as it renews its facilities and infrastructure in the next twenty years, endorsing the plan's objectives to improve exhibits, animal care and habitats, visitor services and circulation, as well as sustainable practices.
The Commission members noted the importance of making timely improvements to the Zoo's infrastructure and giving priority to addressing the site's challenging circulation issues. They expressed support for the establishment of the proposed new central entrance and its associated parking garage, while noting the opportunity for this structure to take better advantage of its position overlooking Rock Creek Park. In addition, the members suggested that the Smithsonian study ways to connect the site's internal circulation to the local Metro stations to enhance visitor access.
The Commission looks forward to reviewing the individual projects proposed in the Master Plan as they are developed in the future. As always, the Commission staff is available to assist and to help coordinate future submissions.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
John Berry, Director
National Zoological Park
Smithsonian Institution
P.O. Box 37012, MRC 5508
Washington, DC 20013-7012
cc: Harry Rombach, Smithsonian Institution