Letter
Dear Mr. Wiedefeld:
In its meeting of 18 October, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed a final design submission for the installation of digital advertising and information screens in six Metrorail stations; this submission includes guidelines intended to standardize the installation of these screens across the Metrorail system. The Commission approved the submission with the following comments.
The Commission members expressed appreciation for the responsiveness to their previous advice, particularly for the development of digital display guidelines based on typological conditions within the system. However, they cautioned that the proposed minimum distances between certain display types could result in an overwhelming visual experience and make it difficult to differentiate between information on individual screens; they strongly recommended requiring the more generous spacing shown in the photographic simulation of a prototypical installation along an escalator passage. They also endorsed the stipulation to restrict freestanding displays to the platform level.
The Commission looks forward to the future review of projects that preserve and enhance the iconic Metrorail system. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Paul J. Wiedefeld
General Manager and Chief Executive Officer
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
600 Fifth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001