26 September 2007

Dear Mr. Rombach:

In its meeting of 20 September, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed and approved the proposed Central Hay Storage Facility at the National Zoological Park. The Commission members noted that the metal utilitarian structure, through its design and red color, will resemble a traditional barn; they supported its location in the service area behind the Mane Restaurant and the proposal to place it as far back from the road as possible. They recommended that the landscaping be adjusted to provide further screening from the sidewalk, and that the paved area be minimized. In general, the members commented that the proposed landscaping may be simplified and they recommended that the landscape be treated as a buffer rather than a garden feature.

As always, the staff is available to assist you.

Sincerely,

/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary

Harry Rombach, R.A.
Associate Director for Facilities Master Planning
Smithsonian Institution
600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Suite 5001
P.O. Box 37012, MRC 511
Washington, DC 20013-7012

cc: John Berry, National Zoological Park