Letter
Dear Ms. Nersesian:
In its public meeting of 20 February conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts was pleased to hear an information presentation on a long-range planning effort to revitalize Sections D and E of Anacostia Park, an area along the riverfront between the 11th Street Bridge Park and the Anacostia Railroad Bridge. Citing the importance of this scenic open landscape as a large recreational space in the city, the Commission expressed general support for its rehabilitation and provided the following comments for the development of the planning study.
The Commission members expressed their support for the presented alternatives, all of which would create many recreational opportunities, provide new connections to the neighboring communities, and enhance natural resources within this well-used park. They recommended developing a plan that locates Anacostia Drive farther from the river to maintain a continuous landscape along the waterfront, with robust connections to adjacent areas to promote access to and within this parkland. Noting the opportunity to develop a framework for this park for decades to come, they recommended enhancing the long-term ecological and recreational performance of the landscape, such as by daylighting the creek crossing the park; they encouraged continuing the dialogue with neighboring communities to develop different types of open spaces within this park. As the alternatives are developed, they noted the issue of long-term maintenance and emergency access within the 100-year floodplain; they also recommended ascertaining whether the beach would be safe for swimming given the tides and currents.
The Commission looks forward to the future review of the long-range and subsequent planning for Anacostia Park to help guide the rehabilitation of this important landscape. Please continue to consult with the Commission staff which, as always, is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, FAIA
Secretary
Jen Nersesian, Area Director
Region 1 – National Capital Area
National Park Service
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242