Letter
Dear Dr. Elias:
During its meeting 15 April 2004, the Commission reviewed the existing perimeter security fence that was installed on the edge of the US National Arboretum along the Anacostia River. We were disappointed that the installation occurred prior to our having an opportunity to comment on its design and to evaluate its impact on the Arboretum and the Anacostia River bank. As such, we will only consider the present installation of the fence as one of a temporary nature.
As you know, the District Government and the National Park Service continue to work on a proposed Anacostia River Waterfront Trail project. When the portion of the trail adjacent to the Arboretum is developed, that will be the time to re-evaluate the installation of the present fence. The goal should be to design a fence that is more appropriate for the Arboretum's Anacostia waterfront. It should not only provide the necessary level of security, but enhance the area so as to create a friendly and welcoming environment for those individuals on the trail. We look forward to the submission of a fence design in the near future that would meet these goals. Please rely on the assistance of the staff to help with the development of the new design.
Sincerely,
/s/
Charles H. Atherton
Secretary
Dr. Thomas S. Elias
Directo
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