CFA 17/JUL/14-1

Owner
National Park Service
Property
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Center, West Potomac Park
Description
New underground visitor education center
Review Type
Revised concept
Previous Review

Letter

24 July 2014

Dear Mr. Whitesell:

In its meeting of 17 July, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed concept alternatives for the approach and entry to the proposed Vietnam Veterans Memorial Center, to be located in West Potomac Park. The Commission approved the fifth option, a modification of the previously proposed scheme, comprising a stair and looping ramp in a loose oval configuration.

In their discussion, the Commission members commended the project team for its thoughtful and careful exploration of a wide range of options. While acknowledging the merits of Option A, a widely arcing walk in the landscape, they agreed that the approved option would best satisfy the many technical constraints—associated with accessibility, flood control, and tree protection—and would allow for the elimination of the proposed retaining wall perpendicular to the entrance facade.

As always, the staff is available to assist you in the further development of this project.

Sincerely,

/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary

Steve Whitesell, Regional Director
National Park Service, National Capital Region
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242

cc: Tom Wong, Ennead Architects
Ken Haines, Hargreaves Associates
Peter May, National Park Service