Letter
Dear Mr. Earle:
During its meeting of 15 January, the Commission reviewed the proposed designs for perimetere security upgrades at the main gate and Gillis Avenue gate of the Naval Observatory and for a perimetere security fence along the waterfront at the Washington Navy Yard. The Commission understands the unfortunate need for such projects and supports the intention to open the waterfront to the public but find a lack of information to make an informed decision.
More specifically, the Commission is concerned about the need for vehicle security barriers outside the security gates at the Vice President's residence and would appreciate the opportunity to speak with the Secret Service regarding this and future projects. On the Navy Yard project, the Commission would like to see more detailed drawings, including more information regarding proposed landscape improvements. The addition of a landscape architect to the project team is strongly recommended. The proposed fence creates an inhospitable environment because its height, regularity and opacity at an oblique angle over the approximate 2,400 ft length. A site visit would be appropriate for this project and should be scheduled as soon as mutually convenient.
The Commission looks forward to continued review of this project. As always, the staff is available should you or the design team have questions or need guidance.
Sincerely,
/s/Charles H. Atherton
Secretary
Mr. Lawrence P. Earle
Department of the Navy
Engineering Field Activity Chesapeake
1324 Harwood Street, SE
Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5018