Letter
Dear Ms. O'Dell:
In its meeting of 16 September, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed three alternative concepts for a vehicular security barrier around the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. The Commission expressed appreciation for the development of three distinct viable alternatives. Consistent with the National Park Service's stated preference, the Commission approved Alternative 1, a barrier associated with the roadway at the outer edge of the site.
The Commission members commented that Alternative 1 would best support the overall design character of a memorial set in a garden landscape. They recommended careful attention to the spacing and detailing of piers and wall sections as the design is developed, cautioning against a relentless appearance; they expressed a preference for simple forms and detailing. They welcomed the opportunity presented by this alternative for rehabilitation of the historic Olmsted Jr. landscape and suggested providing more shade trees to improve the pedestrian experience. For the treatment of the barrier and grading at the south lawn panel, the Commission encouraged flexibility in further developing the concepts, possibly incorporating aspects of the other alternatives.
The Commission looks forward to further review of the design as it is developed. As always, the staff is available to assist you with the next submission.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Margaret O'Dell, Regional Director
National Park Service, National Capital Region
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242
cc: Peter May, National Park Service
Ignacio Bunster, Wallace Roberts & Todd