Letter
Dear Ms. Nersesian:
In its public meeting of 20 March conducted by videoconference, the Commission of Fine Arts was pleased to hear an information presentation submitted by the National Park Service, in partnership with the D.C. Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, on the planned redevelopment of the Poplar Point area of Anacostia Park in Southeast Washington. The Commission expressed appreciation for the presentation of a range of alternatives for a new mixed-use district along the city’s waterfront, and provided the following comments.
The Commission members cited the unique opportunities offered by the development of this large and prominent parcel on the Anacostia River—such as retaining and restoring significant wetland areas, improving the quality of the waterfront experience, and establishing strong connections to the nearby historic Anacostia neighborhood. In their discussion of the presented alternatives, they observed that Alternatives A and B would promote the best connections to adjacent neighborhoods, helping to extend and strengthen the existing urban fabric, whereas Alternative C appears more focused on attracting visitors from north of the river. Given the extensive wetland restoration proposed by the plan, they recommended integrating an environmental education component into the proposal and using the ecological features as a generator of the precinct’s urban design. Finally, as this plan includes establishing several new commemorative sites, the Commission members encouraged a more expansive exploration of commemorative expression within this context—both in its subjects and its typologies, which might include trails, viewsheds, landscapes, and programmed areas in buildings.
The Commission looks forward to the future review of the planning process that will be used to guide the redevelopment of this prominent site. 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, Regional Director
Region 1 – National Capital Area
National Park Service
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242
cc: Nina Albert, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
Alan Harwood, AECOM
Stan Wall, HR&A Advisors