Letter
Dear Mr. Pritchard:
During its meeting of 19 May 2005, the Commission reviewed and approved the revised concept for the streetscape plan and perimeter security barriers designed for the Freedom Forum and Newseum to be located at 555 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (SL 05-061). The Commission appreciates the response to the concerns of the previous submission. Although the size and density of planters and benches proposed for Pennsylvania Avenue creates a strong pedestrian barrier on the sidewalk, the installation appears to be consistent with similar installations along the avenue. In addition, the continuity of Pennsylvania Avenue has been maintained by the simplification of the corner elements at the intersection of 6th Street and the removal of the black granite at the entrance of the building. The soldier course brick outline of the building in the sidewalk is subtle and acceptable. The Commission requests that the applicant coordinate the streetscape design with the Canadian Embassy along Pennsylvania Avenue.
The Commission looks forward to the contemporary addition of this museum to Pennsylvania Avenue. Please submit the proposal for final review when ready. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Peter Pritchard, President
The Freedom Forum
1101 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
cc: James Polshek, Polshek Partnership Architects
Edward M. Rogers, Nixon Peabody LLP
Judith H. Renfrew, CarrAmerica