Letter
Dear Mr. Kaiser:
At its meeting of 20 February, the Commission reviewed the preliminary concept design for the Kennedy Center's new plaza and expansion project. Included in the proposal were new pedestrian and vehicular access points and a new grand entranceway and forecourt that will connect the Center to E Street by decking over the adjacent highways to the east; two new buildings, flanking the forecourt, that will provide the Center with new rehearsal and educational spaces; and a reconfigured terrace, placing the Center in a surrounding "monumental" oval.
The design by Architect Rafael Vinoly was found to be comprehensive and well thought out. The members were encouraged with the direction of Mr. Vinoly's proposal and thought it appropriate. It should prove successful in achieving the multiple goals of reconnecting the Center to the city, allowing direct access to the waterfront, and providing the much needed auxiliary spaces for onsite rehearsals and educational programs, while maintaining and reinforcing the monumental presence of the Center. The concept design was approved unanimously.
The Commission looks forward to the continued review of the project as it develops. As always, the staff is available should you, or the design team, have questions.
Sincerely,
/s/Harry G. Robinson III
Harry G. Robinson III, FAIA
Chairman
Mr. Michael Kaiser
President, The John F. Kennedy Center
for the Performing Arts
Washington, DC 20566-0001
cc: Rafael Vinoly, FAIA
Claudette Donlon, JFKCPA