23 March 2007

Dear Dr. Elias:

In its meeting of 15 March, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed and approved the final design for improvements to the Fern Valley Exhibit area in the U.S. National Arboretum. The Commission members expressed enthusiasm for the project, especially for the proposed installation of the rustic railings and benches by artist David Robinson.

The Commission looks forward to seeing these improvements to the exhibit that will enhance accessibility. As always, the Commission staff is available to assist you with future submissions.

Sincerely,

Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary

Dr. Thomas S. Elias, Director
U.S. National Arboretum
3501 New York Avenue, N.E.
Washington, DC 20002-1958

cc: Lisa Bynum, U.S. Department of Agriculture
Scott Rykiel, Mahan Rykiel Associates