Letter
Dear Ms. Penney:
In its meeting of 17 September, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed and approved the preliminary concept design for the replacement of the 11th Street Bridges and related interchanges and infrastructure, with several comments for the development of the design.
The Commission recommended that the project's modern construction be expressed in the choice of design details and materials, particularly by eliminating the proposed simulated ashlar stone pattern for the exposed concrete walls. The Commission members also recommended that all proposed elements—including street furniture and lighting—contribute to a consistent overall design. They requested that more consideration be given to the experience of the pedestrian, such as by providing additional benches along the span, and encouraged the potential development of the existing piers as a location for overlooks. In addition, the Commission recommended an open support structure for the access ramps, rather than solid walls, in order to maintain views across the project site. For the landscape design, the Commission suggested consideration of sustainable mixed vegetation as an alternative to the proposed extensive areas of grass.
The Commission members look forward to further review of the project as it is developed through the design-build procurement process. As always, the staff is available to assist you with the next submission.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Kathleen L. Penney, Chief Engineer
District of Columbia Department of Transportation
64 New York Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002
cc: Barton Clark, D.C. Department of Transportation
Marita Roos, HNTB