Letter
Dear Dr. Elias:
During its meeting 17 June 2004, the Commission reviewed the proposed alterations to the Bonsai Collection at the National Arboretum. We appreciate the opportunity to assist you in the upgrade of the lower courtyard and exhibit pavilions to make them ADA compliant. However, the proposed use of field stone or flagstone pavers will significantly change the organic character of the existing gravel paths. Other options are available to you. We recommend looking at the use of stone dust, which will both keep the original natural character of the courtyard as well as provide a surface hard enough for handicapped access. Looking at the success of other gardens, like the National Gallery Sculpture Garden, may offer ideas on how to find an appropriate solution.
We look forward to the continuation of our review of all the remaining phases of the project, which has been delegated to the staff.
Sincerely,
/s/Frederick J. Lindstrom
Acting Secretary
Dr. Thomas S. Elias
Director, U.S. National Arboretum
United States Department of Agriculture
3501 New York Avenue, NE
Washington DC 20002-1958
cc: Judy Morrison, USDA
Scott Aker, USNA