CFA 18/MAR/04-10

Owner
U.S. Department of Defense
U.S. Department of the Navy
Property
Washington Navy Yard
Description
Anacostia River waterfront. Perimeter security fence
Review Type
Final
Previous Review

Letter

Dear Mr. Earle:

During its meeting of 18 March 2004, the Commission reviewed the final design for the proposed perimeter security fence along the Anacostia River waterfront at the Washington Navy Yard. We appreciate the opportunity given us to visit the Washington Navy Yard on the morning of 19 February.

As the length of the fence is daunting, the brick piers and pedestrian entrances do not offer not enough variety to reduce the visual impact and hold the design together. The members suggested that removing the brick piers would improve the appearance of the fence since the piers were not well designed. A simpler metal fence without piers, but with additional landscaping, would be preferable.

The members were disappointed that previous recommendations to consider larger open spaces had not been explored. If properly designed, these open spaces would not diminish security needs or potential use of the space by the Navy Yard, and they would greatly benefit the pedestrian experience of the waterfront. Because these recommendations were not considered, the final design did not receive an enthusiastic reception ...With these recommendations the design was approved with reservations.

The Commission looks forward to review of additional installations throughout the capital city at an early stage of design to consider the options available to the Navy to meet security requirements.

Sincerely,
/s/
Charles H. Atherton
Secretary

Mr. Lawrence P. Earle
Department of the Navy
Engineering Field Activity Chesapeake
1314 Harwood Street, SE
Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5018