Letter
Dear Mr. Jackson:
The Commission of Fine Arts was pleased to comment on the redevelopment master plan for the old convention center site at the meeting on 15 June. The Commission members supported the intention to reopen 10th and I Streets, returning the site to its historic block pattern. However, the members expressed concern about the treatment of public spaces at the northwest portion of the site and within the southeastern block. These public plazas—one highly visible along New York Avenue, and one completely removed from city streets—should be designed with great care so that they contribute fully to the urban vitality and open space system of downtown Washington. The project's street edges and retail areas should also be designed with careful regard for supporting the broader urban context. With such an extensive site, the success of this project will be measured not just by its architectural and landscape design but also by its contribution to the form and activity of the city.
The Commission appreciates the opportunity to comment on the project and looks forward to a continued dialogue regarding the master plan as well as the review of projects on public property within the site. As always, the staff is available to assist you and the design team to help coordinate subsequent submissions.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Stanley Jackson
Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 317
Washington, DC 20004
cc: Konrad Schlater, Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
Ellen McCarthy, D.C. Office of Planning
Armstrong Yakubu, Foster and Partners
Shalom Baranes, Shalom Baranes Associates