Letter
Dear Mr. Seales:
In its meeting of 18 September, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed the proposed design for two bridges and related approaches to carry the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail over the rail tracks on both banks of the Anacostia River. The Commission expressed support for the overall development of this recreational trail system but concluded that the current proposal should be studied further, recommending additional design research and the inclusion of an architect on the project team.
The Commission members commented that the bridges and their lengthy approaches will be significant elements along the Anacostia River and recommended that the design be more ambitious in making a positive contribution to the landscapes which it affects. Additional care should be given to developing the many features of the design which have potential for a beautiful expression of the structure—the curved plan of the approaches, abutment walls, piers, and the spans across the railroad tracks. In particular, the members suggested that the abutments be lighter in character and that the design of the piers and the spans they support be integrated into an overall aesthetic vision. The Commission concluded that the character of the design as submitted would not enhance the riverfront setting.
The Commission looks forward to further review of the concept design for this project. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Frank Seales Jr., Interim Director
District of Columbia Department of Transportation
2000 14th Street, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, DC 20009
cc: Allen Miller, D.C. Department of Transportation