2oo5 NCPC ANNUAL REPORT

NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION NCPC’S LEGISLATIVE MANDATE

The U.S. Congress gave NCPC a broad legislative authority over a range of issues affecting everything from the city’s major monuments and historic treasures to its zoning maps and regulations.

Congress established the agency in 1924 as the National Capital Park Commission. In 1952 Congress passed the National Capital Planning Act, renaming the agency and designating it as the cen- tral planning agency for the federal and District government in the National Capital Region (NCR). The Act, amended after D.C. Home Rule and the creation of the District Office of Planning, charges NCPC to provide overall planning guidance for federal land and buildings in the NCR.

The Zoning Act of 1938 mandates that NCPC serve on the District of Columbia Board of Zoning Adjustment. The Board hears many cases that involve land adjacent to or affected by federal landholdings.

Through the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, NCPC serves as a steward of the region’s historic buildings, districts, landscapes, and views. The Commission also operates under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which requires feder- al agencies to evaluate the environmental impacts of proposed projects.

The 1968 International Center Act established a campus for foreign chanceries in Northwest Washington. Development plans for all chanceries in the 47-acre International Center are subject to NCPC’s approval. The Foreign Missions Act of 1982 establishes the criteria and procedures by which foreign mis- sions may locate in the District of Columbia. Under the law, NCPC’s executive director must serve as a member of the Foreign Missions Board of Zoning Adjustment, which considers applications by foreign missions.

The 1986 Commemorative Works Act (CWA) provides that the site and design of memorials and monuments in the District and its environs are subject to NCPC’s approval. ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNINGCAPITAL COMMISSION NATIONAL October 1, 2004 – September 30, 2005 1, 2004 – September October Contents the Chairman from Message Director and the Executive Community a Diverse Representing 2 NCPC’s Year Ahead Year NCPC’s I. The Commission: 4 V. Outreach International 24 II. Initiatives Signature NCPC’s 5 IV. Long-Range PlanningVI. Achievements 23 26 III. Urban Design Review 14 VII. Financial Report 27 VIII. the Future: Looking to 28 2

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING Message from theChairmanandExecutive Director NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL 2005

As federal planners,

we recognize that Washington, D.C. embodies our the monumental core by offering convenient nation’s democratic ideals. As a symbol of our republic, transportation to Washington’s landmarks, restaurants, the capital city must be beautiful. It must inspire. and workplaces not accessible by the Metro system. We However, planners also must lay the groundwork for a are delighted to see the eye-catching buses traveling 3 functioning city that provides practical services like the city’s streets just eight years later, and we are proud convenient and reliable transportation; welcoming that NCPC’s transit solution has been realized, helping parks and open space; and attractive, accessible the city to function more smoothly. streetscapes that foster lively neighborhoods and active city life. In short, the city must be livable. Washington, D.C. belongs to its residents and workers, but it also belongs to the nation as a whole. While we At NCPC, we touch upon the ideals that shape our plan for those who live here, we also plan for the national heritage, and we grapple with the everyday thousands of citizens who visit each year and all those challenges facing any modern municipality. who have a stake in the nation’s capital. We serve both groups of constituents by developing long-term plans As trustees of our nation’s heritage, we work to preserve such as those crafted for the South Capitol Street some of the country’s most important buildings and corridor. Since our South Capitol Street efforts began in public spaces. This past year saw the reopening of 1997, we have conducted numerous studies, culminating to pedestrians, the unveiling of new this year in design scenarios for transforming the security features at the Washington Monument, and the boulevard. When South Capitol Street becomes the adaptation of Judiciary Square to meet modern needs grand gateway that NCPC has long envisioned, it will while preserving the historic setting. attract locals and visitors alike and become a source of pride for all citizens. When we review plans for memorials and museums, we honor the principles that founded our nation as well as When city planners realize lofty ideals while developing the individuals, groups, and ideas that shaped our practical solutions, they shape a world-class city. history. This year, NCPC lent its planning expertise and At NCPC, we strive to strike such a balance, to create state-of-the-art technical assistance to the an inspiring but livable, lofty but practical, national city. for site analyses for the Please join us in this process and ensure that National Museum of African American History and Washington, D.C. is a city by the people as well as Culture. We also worked closely with the National Law for the people. Enforcement Museum to ensure that its final design is integrated into its historic surroundings.

We are proud to report that through effective partnerships, the Circulator, a low-cost addition to the city’s transit options, launched in July. NCPC developed the Circulator idea in 1997 to reduce traffic congestion in John V. Cogbill, III Chairman

Patricia E. Gallagher, AICP Executive Director NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION

I. The Commission:

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 ANNUAL REPORT Representing a Diverse Community

NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION 4 Presidential Appointees John V. Cogbill, III, Chairman Herbert F. Ames José L. Galvez, III

Mayoral Appointees Patricia Elwood, Vice Chair Arrington Dixon

Ex Officio Members The Honorable Donald H. Rumsfeld Secretary of Defense Represented by Jerry R. Shiplett

The Honorable Gale A. Norton Commission Members: (seated) Chairman John V. Cogbill, III and Vice Chair Patricia Elwood; Secretary of the Interior (from left) Robert White, Robert Miller, Arrington Dixon, Jennifer Steingasser, Jose’ Galvez, Represented by Donald W. Murphy Amy Hall, Michael McGill, Jerry Shiplett, and Donald Murphy.

The Honorable Stephen A. Perry Administrator of General Services Represented by Michael S. McGill

The Honorable Susan M. Collins Chairman, Committee on Governmental Affairs Senate Represented by Amy Hall

The Honorable Tom Davis Chairman, Committee on Government Reform United States House of Representatives Represented by Robert White NCPC works to protect and

The Honorable Anthony A. Williams enhance the extraordinary Mayor, District of Columbia Represented by Jennifer Steingasser resources of the National The Honorable Linda W. Cropp Capital Region. Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia Represented by Robert E. Miller 5 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 SIGNATURE INITIATIVES SIGNATURE , NCPC has studied a variety of opportunities a variety , NCPC has studied Legacy Plan Legacy LEGACY PLAN South Capitol Street South Capitol the revitalize vision to decade-long NCPC’s year, In the past of hold. Transformation has taken corridor Street South Capitol the nation’s to entry a key of thoroughfare, stretch the neglected a new Anacostia With plans underway for has begun. capital, NCPC’s new baseball stadium, and a brand crossing River in the months ahead. further forward move to promises concept first since and public interest local, by federal, Buoyed its the city in to gateway as a stunning depicting the corridor 1997 to revitalize the area that stands in the shadow of the U.S. in the shadow that stands the area revitalize to to force task an interagency In 2004, NCPC convened Capitol. 10 months of After scenarios. redevelopment potential explore with a this March emerged force the task in-depth study, new a spectacular into the corridor transform plan to detailed capital. nation’s in the address As the federal government’s central planning central government’s As the federal the Region (NCR), the National Capital agency in plans development federal reviews Commission meet the high projects that proposed ensure to planning and local in federal set forth standards in role is NCPC’s important as policies. Just its Through the future. for a vision developing and now the here plans, NCPC leaves signature be. These long- the world of what can and enters pages, described in the following efforts, term city than the one a better for a roadmap provide the area’s enhance to strive They today. we enjoy and abundant cultural, beauty historic while resources and natural architectural, generations. future for heritage our preserving II. NCPC’s Signature Initiatives Signature II. NCPC’s NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION

“NCPC set its sights on a long-range vision for this neglected corridor––a ANNUAL REPORT 2005 ANNUAL REPORT vision that would transform South Capitol Street into a boulevard with magnificent public plazas, parkland, 6 national monuments, and commercial and residential uses.”

José Galvez III Chairman, South Capitol Street Task Force

A grand waterfront gateway with spectacular views to and from the U.S. Capitol serves as the centerpiece of NCPC’s vision for South Capitol Street. Open space, mixed-use development, new commemorative works, and an architecturally significant new Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge would transform South Capitol Street into a vibrant boulevard bustling with life and activity.

NCPC’s plan calls for an oval rotary with a green NCPC believes the new South Capitol Street should common enhanced by a commemorative work or civic maintain its current 130-foot right-of-way, with six art where the new bridge intersects South Capitol lanes of through traffic and permanent parking lanes Street and Potomac Avenue. A waterfront park graces on both sides of the street. Buildings along the the banks of the between the rotary corridor should be set back an additional 15 feet and a major cultural facility or memorial. From the from the road to accommodate landscaping, U.S. Capitol, a stunning view would run to the including a double row of trees on each side of the waterfront––a sight worthy of the nation’s capital. avenue. Open space at major intersections would allow for a series of important spaces to showcase The plan calls for a mixed-use development zone America’s capital city. featuring cultural establishments, retail space, and sites for privately developed federal facilities north of The South Capitol Street corridor and the future the M Street corridor. Residential buildings will bridge represent important federal interests, and contribute to the makings of a great neighborhood. NCPC is pleased to see a remarkable number of NCPC’s plan would better connect the area to the rest developments underway in this area. NCPC’s vision of the city and build on the momentum of stems from meaningful cooperation with the Washington’s planned baseball stadium. , the Department of Defense, the General Services Administration, and the District In all of the scenarios, an oval rotary improves traffic Department of Transportation, which will oversee flow and creates the South Capitol Commons, the funding, planning, and construction of the new roughly seven acres of green space in the rotary’s Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge––a key step in interior. This setting would be a perfect location for the area’s revitalization. We look forward to the day public gatherings, commemorative works, civic art, when South Capitol Street is a signature address in and landscaping. It also would serve as the front yard the nation’s capital, and we will continue to build to the baseball stadium and an inter-modal transit partnerships to accomplish this goal. site. The latter would feature two levels of underground parking for potentially 1,000 cars, with a future light-rail station and bus connection at grade to the east of the rotary. 7 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 SIGNATURE INITIATIVES SIGNATURE a major a major a new national A B C The central memorial The central alternative: civic memorial and smaller an and art in the commons on the amphitheater terminus. waterfront The waterfront memorial The waterfront alternative: memorial on the waterfront civic art and smaller terminus and memorials in the commons. NCPC’s South Capitol Street Design Scenarios The waterfront aquarium The waterfront alternative: aquarium at the waterfront and a major memorial terminus and civic art in the commons. C B A 8

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING Transit Solutions LEGACY PLAN LEGACY “I amdelightedthatthisimportant and greater security.” realistic possibilitiesfor rerouting federal grantopensthedoorto the Congresswoman, DistrictofColumbia Eleanor HolmesNorton needs; analyze thebenefitsandcosts ofrelocation; infrastructure in meetingtoday’s transportation route; explore thelimitations ofthecurrent evaluate thesecurityrisksposedbycurrent alternatives andidentifyapreferred alignment; National CapitalRegion The study, public access to thewaterfront. Capitol Hillfrom theAnacostia River, andlimiting neighborhoods from therest ofthecity,dividing the city,separating theSoutheast andSouthwest threat to thenation’s capital. Thelinealsofractures Washington’s monumental core, posingasecurity rail linescarry hazardous cargo rightthrough than 100millionpassengers annually. However, the moving roughly 250milliontons offreight andmore The segmentisvital to theEast Coast rail corridor, Alexandria, to Hyattsville, . rail ownedbytheCSXCorporation thatrunsfrom D.C. Thestudy willexamine aseven-mile stretch of rail linesthatpass through theheartofWashington, Transportation (DDOT) to conduct anin-depthstudy of NCPC hasjoinedtheDistrict Departmentof Rail Relocation Study Securing FreightSecuring RailTransportation inthe , willaddress relocation “The raillinenot onlypresents acritical “The Director, DistrictDepartmentofTransportation Dan Tangherlini the East Coast.” we work to improve railtransitalong onthismatteras lending itsexpertise District. We to lookforward NCPC to economicdevelopment for the security concern,itpresents abarrier Council ofGovernments. the Capitol, andtheMetropolitan Washington Federal Railroad Administration, theArchitect of the Transportation SecurityAdministration, the Commonwealth ofVirginia, the State ofMaryland, previously assembled. Thegroup includesCSX,the working group ofregional stakeholders thatNCPC NCPC andDDOT willcoordinate theirefforts witha be apartneronthestudy. leadership role onthisissue, DDOT invited NCPCto 2006. Recognizing thatNCPChasplayed avital Security Initiative andisexpected to begininearly The project isbeingfundedbythe2005UrbanAreas study from theDepartmentofHomeland Security. DDOT received a$1milliongrant to conduct the locations for anewrail crossing. D.C. region willbeperformed to identifysuitable analysis ofthePotomac River withintheWashington, along thecurrent path.Inaddition,athorough and assess theredevelopment potential oflands 9 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 SIGNATURE INITIATIVES SIGNATURE Anacostia to Test Drive Drive to Test Anacostia Light-Rail Line First City’s concept approved the Commission In November Area Metropolitan Washington the design plans for Light Rail, Anacostia (WMATA) Authority’s Transit line. The 2.7-mile light-rail first Washington’s will serve and its six stations project demonstration centers and employment neighborhoods residential connecting River, side of the Anacostia on the east Metrorail. to commuters that requested the Commission In its review, about pedestrian details additional provide WMATA station, Metro Anacostia the to connections the new stations, for materials and shelter platform plans. and landscaping the viability of light-rail The new line will test and is the first of Columbia in the District transit to service citywide light-rail phase of a potential The and Metrobus. Metrorail complement as test will also serve Light Rail stations Anacostia for as catalysts serve see if they to cases development. commercial , began Legacy Plan Legacy serving residents, employees, and visitors in and visitors employees, serving residents, convenient provides D.C. The Circulator Washington, landmarks, Washington’s to transportation The new via two routes. and workplaces restaurants, and transit public augments existing service low-fare by encouraging congestion reduce is designed to hop on the Circulator to visitors and residents Recognizing of driving and parking in town. instead component is a key system transit that a world-class the idea in the 1990s NCPC developed city, of a great in and circulation improved for the need address to core. monumental Washington’s around NCPC the public on this new service, educate To the and map detailing brochure a color developed several and conducted system new transit its official of the bus prior to roll-outs educational of a partnership is a result launch. The Circulator Department of among NCPC, the District Improvement Business the Downtown Transportation, Area Metropolitan and the Washington District, currently are additional routes Two Authority. Transit the U.S. Capitol One would run from being explored. House, and the other would service the White to monuments and museums. downtown Circulator bus first shuttle a convenient the Circulator, In July 1997 envisioned in NCPC’s Plan and Project Implementation Division Plan and Project by Bill Division (PPID) led Implementation The Plan and Project the printed from planning initiatives NCPC’s move Dowd, helps to on partners with local PPID worked year In the past reality. page to with the an agreement and signed the launch of the Circulator the exploring a study for Department of Transportation District lines that rail of Washington miles seven of relocating feasibility city and separate capital pose security risks in the nation’s work on the the agency’s neighborhoods. The division also steered House. of the White in front Avenue of Pennsylvania redesign D.C. Surface Transit Inc. D.C. Surface Transit 10 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING ANNUAL REPORT 2005 Terry Adams, National Park Service, 2005 Securing Washington’s Treasures NATIONAL PLAN CAPITAL URBANDESIGNANDSECURITY piecemeal approaches thatdisrupturbanlandscapes. that are mindfulofstreetscapes, rather than upon federal agenciesto create securityschemes its surroundings. NCPC’s securityplanalsocalls building’s existing architecture andare integrated into design securitymeasures thatcomplement a underway. Theplanencourages federal agenciesto projects throughout thenation’s capital andmore are all, theplanhasguidedmore than62security Pennsylvania Avenue infront oftheWhite House.In icons, includingtheWashington Monumentand redesigns atsomeofWashington’s most important In just three years, NCPC’s planhasshapedsecurity offered thefirst federal standards for securitydesign. Capital Urban Design and Security Plan Capital UrbanDesignandSecurity When NCPCadopted itsgroundbreaking also providing better protection. creative securitycan enhance alandscape while monument serves asamodel,demonstrating that historic preservation guidance. Today the design recommendations andenvironmental and National Park Service onthisproject, offering of theoverhaul. NCPCworked closely withthe new granite plazaatthebaseofobeliskare part Hundreds ofnewtrees, upgraded lighting,and a vehicle barrierwhile alsoproviding visitor seating. the memorial.The30-inch-highwallsserve asa granite walls,runningalong newpathways,encircle solution thatblends into thelandscape. Overlapping the obelisk;intheirplace visitors findasecurity setting. Goneare theunsightly jersey barriers ringing preserving thegrace andbeautyofthemonument’s redesign offers fullsecurityfor thelandmarkwhile Fourth celebrations ontheNationalMall.The Monument were unveiled intimefor thisyear’s July The redesigned grounds oftheWashington Secured andBeautified Washington MonumentGrounds in 2002,it National plans move forward. complete anenvironmental review oftheproject as review. TheCommission expects thePark Service to additional planswillcome before theCommission for this portionoftheproject isonly attheconcept stage, Preservation, andinterested citizengroups. Because Preservation Office, theAdvisoryCouncilonHistoric the Commission ofFineArts,theD.C.State Historic NCPC staff andthestaffs oftheNationalPark Service, This project involved extensive consultation among design thatisappropriate for thesetting. Park Service develop andtest inthefield,abollard the lower stairs. NCPCalsorecommended thatthe fence orotherbarrier enclosed inhedgesalongside recommended thatthePark Service useacable Pool. Withitsapproval, theCommission memorial’s lower stairs to thelevel oftheReflecting Circle atBacon andFrench Drives anddescends the security plan.Thebarrierlinecrosses Memorial scheme contained inNCPC’s 2002urbandesignand area inJuly. Theconcept planissimilarto the NCPC approved arevised concept designfor this changes to thehistoric buildingfabric. Memorial andtheNationalMallwhile minimizing preserve theopenvistas betweentheLincoln particularly challenging because thegoalhasbeento Developing asecuritydesignfor thisarea hasproven the east side,whichfaces theNationalMall. solution for theremaining portionofthememorial, closely withtheNationalPark Service to develop a monument. TheCommission hasbeenworking construction, thatwillencircle three-quarters ofthe 35-inch-high granite retaining wall,currently under attractions inWashington. In2003NCPCapproved a Lincoln Memorialisoneofthemost visited architect HenryBacon andcompleted in1922,the monuments, theLincoln Memorial.Designedby solution for anotherofWashington’s most treasured Construction isunderwayonpartofasecurity Lincoln MemorialUndergoes SecurityOverhaul SIGNATURE INITIATIVES ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL 2005 “After years of planning, Pennsylvania Avenue will once again provide an inviting place for visitors. Barriers will be replaced with towering elms, and benches along the open walkways will make welcome spots to enjoy the historic scenery of Washington, D.C.”

First Lady Laura Bush Photo Courtesy of The

11 America’s “Main Street” Welcomes “Pennsylvania Avenue is Pedestrians Once More symbolic of...our efforts to On November 9, 2004, during a New guard booths complement the better balance national ceremony with First Lady Laura Bush, classical architecture found along the famous stretch of Pennsylvania the avenue, and nearly 90 American homeland security needs in a Avenue in front of the White House elm trees, planted in March 2005, dangerous world...with real officially reopened to pedestrians after will provide a welcoming canopy for freedom for our citizens.” an extensive redesign. The pedestrians when they mature. transformation of Pennsylvania Anthony Williams Avenue is the first key security The project’s design can Mayor, District of Columbia scheme from NCPC’s urban design accommodate the Circulator should and security plan to be completed, just a planned route between the White two years after the plan’s release. House and the U.S. Capitol be implemented. The design is also Today, the bulky planters and jersey reversible, allowing the avenue to barriers that marred the avenue for reopen in the future, if and when the nearly 10 years are gone. In their security environment permits. “This is a historic day for place, specially designed bollards, America. A true avenue for some that are retractable or The project is the result of the effort of removable, protect the area while federal, local, and civic agencies that the people is now a reality maintaining a visually open setting. worked with the National Capital due to the work of the many Twin-headed streetlights, originally Planning Commission, including the stakeholders and First Lady designed for Washington in 1923 by Federal Highway Administration, which Henry Bacon, now line the precinct, managed construction of the project, the Laura Bush, whose personal and granite benches along the National Park Service, the United States involvement made this walkways on the avenue’s south side Secret Service, and the District of project possible.” provide a welcome resting spot for Columbia. NCPC is grateful to the First visitors. The road’s rustic paving helps Lady for her steadfast commitment to John V. Cogbill, III unify the White House grounds with this project. The end result is a design Chairman, NCPC Lafayette Park, and large granite that incorporates necessary security pavers at the ends of the street and on measures while respecting the avenue’s the sidewalk reconnect the avenue to historic character. the city’s urban fabric. Photo Courtesy of The White House 12

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING Securing Federal Agencies NATIONAL PLAN CAPITAL URBANDESIGNANDSECURITY environment for pedestrians andneighbors. enhance the streetscape bycreating anattractive Washington, protect employees andvisitors, and the HarrySTruman buildinginNorthwest The plan,approved inDecember 2004,willsafeguard urban security. is amodelfor acreative, integrated approach to security proposal for theDepartmentofState that perspective. Thisyear NCPCapproved aconcept that succeeds from bothadesignandsecurity help federal agenciesdevelop perimeter security A primarypurposeofNCPC’s securityplanisto Security Solution U.S. DepartmentofStateDevelops Creative all securityprojects itreviews. period. TheCommission willapply thesepoliciesto 60-day federal agencyreview andpubliccomment and existing buildings,andtheiradoptionfollowed a The guidelinesare applicable to newconstruction workers, andvisitors. ensure safe andefficientmobilityfor residents, respect theregion’s transportation networkand policies alsoencourage securitysolutionsthat latest developments insecuritytechnologies. The recognize newly identifiedthreats aswellthe physical barriers inpublicview. Thenewguidelines procedures to bolster securitywhile minimizing intelligence gatheringandimproved operational management strategies, suchasenhanced policies alsopromote awiderarray ofrisk guidance onbarrierplacement anddesign,the policies inMay2005.While offering updated release in2002,NCPCadopted newsecurity To address evolving securityneedssince theplan’s Address Recent Developments NCPC’s New SecurityPolicies

Karn Charuhas Chapman & Twohey Architects such ascast bronze posts, decorative metal fences, treatments andsite-appropriate securityelements and streetscape. Theplanincludesavariety of complement eachbuilding’s architecture, landscape, solutions tailored to eachlocation. Thenewmeasures barriers thatnowclutter the Mallwithsecurity The Smithsonianwillreplace thetemporary security Plan National CapitalUrbanDesignandSecurity creative…and substantially meetsthegoalsofour necessary, theoverall preliminary designis Patricia Gallaghersaid,"While somemodifications are reviewing theproposal, NCPCExecutive Director Smithsonian’s museumsontheNationalMall.After preliminary securityplansfor nineofthe In October 2004,theCommission approved Mall-Wide SecurityPlan Commission Approves Smithsonian’s Commission andotherreview bodies. streetscape, anditsearly consultation withthe security elements, attention to improving the Department for itscohesive useofperimeter but initsreview, theCommission commended the further guidance asitcontinues to refine itsplans, NCPC willprovide theDepartmentofState with steel willenclose eachpavilion. of theoriginalbuilding,andglass andstainless highlighted withround frosted skylightsin thestyle and large projecting canopies. Eachentrywillbe The pavilionswillfeature stainless steel columns elements thatare featured intheexisting structure. Building, thenewpavilionswillusearchitectural dignitaries. To ensure compatibility withtheTruman visitor screening, andceremonial entryfor building entrances to oversee employee entry, The departmentwillinstall pavilionsatitsfive along withahardened rail andbollard component. and flagpoles willbeintegrated into thestreetscape NCPC’s securityplan.Newbenches,lightfixtures, will becreated to continue theschemesuggested in pedestrian friendly environment. Aplanted median adding street trees andamenitiesto create a the sidewalksalong 21st and23rd Streets and developed adesignconcept thatcalls for widening Plan Security Using NCPC’s entrance andvisitors. pavilions toscreen employees The DepartmentofState’s includenew securityimprovements as aguide,theDepartmentofState National CapitalUrbanDesignand ." SIGNATURE INITIATIVES ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL 2005

13

Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution Surviving Security: free-standing low walls, fixed and retractable bollards, and custom-designed benches, light poles, Avoiding the Look of a Fortified City and guard booths. The measures will be integrated into the landscape, and barriers will not obstruct the Many have said that Washington, D.C. looks like a city under public right-of-way. siege since the September 11 terrorist attacks, with bollards, planters, mechanical vehicle barriers, and security booths The Commission asked the Smithsonian littering the landscape. NCPC has been working diligently to Institution to rework two proposed elements in change this by publishing the first federal security design the plan: a low wall at the National Museum of guidelines and directing federal agencies to develop well- American History and a line of bollards proposed designed security solutions. Last November, reaching out to along Jefferson Drive, SW in front of the Freer a larger audience, NCPC cosponsored the symposium Gallery and the Arts and Industries Building. The “Surviving Security: Building Federal/Local Partnerships in Commission also advised the Smithsonian to the Region.” include additional openings in a proposed wall at the Natural History Museum and incorporate The Federal Facilities Council, the Greater Washington Board security elements into existing retaining walls of Trade, and the Metropolitan Washington Council of around the parking area. In lieu of continuous Governments (COG) joined NCPC in sponsoring the event at bollards along Jefferson Drive, the Commission the National Academy of Sciences. Senior federal and local recommended alternative streetscape elements government officials discussed the short- and long-term and site elements within the building yards of the impact of pervasive security measures on the local economy, Freer Gallery and the Arts and Industries tourism, urban design, and transportation in the National Building. Capital Region. The Smithsonian’s preliminary design is Several key issues emerged from the seminar, including: consistent with NCPC’s Comprehensive Plan for the National Capital: Federal Elements. It J Washington faces special challenges compared to other balances security requirements with visitor cities because of its high concentration of national accessibility and integrates security into the monuments, federal facilities, and federal employees. existing setting, preserving the natural landscape wherever possible. J Federal facilities need varying levels of security according to their mission and work. The Smithsonian plan addresses perimeter J Security solutions should not be developed in a piecemeal security for the National Museum of American fashion; cohesive area plans should be created. History, the National Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian Castle, the S. Dillon Ripley J Federal, local, and private stakeholders must be mindful of Center, the Freer Gallery of Art, the Arthur M. the tremendous impact that security measures, alerts, and Sackler Gallery of Art, the Museum of African Art, restrictions have on tourism and businesses in the NCR. the Arts and Industries Building, and the Public and private leaders must ensure that Washington Hirshhorn Museum. The project covers the remains open and inviting and does not become a fortress. between Constitution Avenue, NW and Independence Avenue, SW, and between 7th In closing, participants agreed that an unprecedented and 14th Streets. Final plans for each museum level of cooperation will be needed to coordinate and will be submitted to NCPC for review as designs improve security responses throughout the region. are completed and funding becomes available. 14 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING ANNUAL REPORT 2005 environment for thenationalcapital. guidance, NCPChelpsshapethe best possible built By workingclosely withagenciesandproviding detailed must becompleted. requirements oftheNationalHistoric Preservation Act of aproject’s designdrawings are complete, andall When National Environmental Policy Actmust becompleted. projects. Atthepreliminary stage, allrequirements ofthe plans, agencieswillrefine, revise, andfurtherdevelop general direction. Inmoving from concept to complete, andavisualdepictionoftheproject indicates its At the changes andrecommend actions to improve aproject. Throughout thereview process, NCPCmayrequire preservation implications. evaluates aproject’s environmental impactsandhistoric project’s location. Whenreviewing suchsites, NCPC commemorative works, NCPCalsomust approve the phases are often combined onless complex projects. For concept, preliminary, andfinal.Thepreliminary andfinal consultation aswell three stages offormal review: Complex projects routinely includeathorough early project’s beginningstages. so agenciescan receive guidance andfeedback ata welcomes andrecommends early, informal consultation various stages ofbothinformal andformal review. NCPC The Commission’s review andapproval process consists of and Approval Process The Commission’sReview final plans concept III. UrbanDesignReview few ofwhichare highlighted inthissection. projectsa plannedfor theNationalCapital Region, museums. In and designofnationalcommemorative worksand modifications orzoningchanges;andthelocation construction proposals; simple building master plans;federal andDistrict government includes allfederal andDistrict ofColumbia installations, NCPC’s regional review authority In additionto reviewing perimeter security standards ofurbanplanningandarchitecture. ensuring thattheplansitapproves meetthehighest Commission accomplishes thisimportant goalby beauty andhistoric fabric ofthecapital city. The One ofNCPC’s primarymandates isto protect the stage, somearchitectural drawings are are submitted for approval, themajority fiscal year 2005,NCPCreviewed 143 preliminary in early 2006anddedicate itbyfall 2006. Foundation hopesto break ground for thememorial Square in1989.TheVictimsofCommunism Memorial Chinese pro-democracy students inTiananmen modeled after the"Goddess ofDemocracy," builtby have indicated thattheprimaryfeature isasculpture for thememorialearly infiscal year 2006.Organizers NCPC expects to receive preliminary andfinalplans Memorials andMuseumsMasterPlan memorial ormuseumsites identifiedinNCPC’s 2001 and theStatue ofFreedom atop it,isoneof100 NW. Thesite, offering aclear viewoftheU.S.Capitol Jersey Avenue, Massachusetts Avenue, andGStreet, Station inatriangle formed bytheintersection ofNew Communism memorialinApril.ItwillsitnearUnion NCPC approved thelocation oftheVictims memorial to honorthem. years. SoonWashington willhave aninternational lost theirlives to communism inless than100 One hundred millionpeople around theworldhave Lost toCommunism Memorial WillHonorLives Memorials andMuseums fiscal year. selection anddesignguidelinesearly inthenext The Commission expects to review thecenter’s site located atConstitution Avenue and17thStreet, NW. Memorial Circle; andtheInterior SouthBuilding, and HenryBacon Drive, directly adjacent to the intersection ofConstitution Avenue, 23rd Street, 2005. TheNCMAC sites includeaparcel oflandat Memorial AdvisoryCommission (NCMAC) inMay narrowed downto twobytheNationalCapital seven potential sites for thecenter, whichwere November 2003.TheNationalPark Service identified amendment to theCommemorative Works Actin Congress authorizedthevisitor center as an memorial’s blackgranite wallover theyears. house themore than60,000items left atthe feature photos ofAmerican military personnel and plans to develop avisitor center. Thefacility will war, theVietnamVeterans MemorialFund (VVMF) To helpeducate visitors aboutthememorialand thousands ofmenandwomenmadefor ourcountry. Memorial eachyear to remember thesacrifice More than4millionpeople visittheVietnamVeterans Memorial VisitorCenter Vietnam Veterans . 15 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 URBAN DESIGN REVIEW DESIGN URBAN The National Museum of African Museum The National American History as and Culture model depicted in a computer bycreated NCPC staff The Commission received an informational briefing in an informational received The Commission preliminary study’s selection April 2005 on the site the briefing from a second findings and expects 2006. NCPC is year in fiscal Smithsonian early the consider the Smithsonian to encouraging or the Arts and Industries site Overlook Banneker the museum. The for suitable Building as most as an anchor for serve could site Overlook Banneker the and allow development waterfront Southwest a signature design and construct to sponsors building. NCPC supports the Arts and Industries a it offers because Building as an alternative to convenient location and symbolic Mall desirable Art. the Museum of African The new museum will include a permanent art, of artifacts, than 400 years of more collection including the period of materials, and historical and the Civil Renaissance, the Harlem slavery, of Board The Smithsonian’s Rights Movement. on the a decision make to Regents is expected 2006. early in site museum’s Banneker Overlook site on 10th Street, SW on 10th Street, site Overlook Banneker Arts and Industries Building, next to the to Building, next Arts and Industries National Mall on the Smithsonian Castle the Washington from across Monument site, Monument of the at the foot Liberty Loan Building site Bridge 14th Street J J J J National Museum of National Museum Culture and African American History the National Museum of Planning has begun for which will and Culture, History American African of African the contributions honor and celebrate the our nation. When authorizing to Americans the instructed 2003, Congress in December facility with the chairman of NCPC consult Smithsonian to sites: potential the following as it considered To aid the Smithsonian and the architectural/ To sites, the proposed engineering firm evaluating and each site for maps and data NCPC provided of them using three- evaluations completed modeling technology dimensional computer-aided location. depict buildings in each proposed to The Technology Development and Applications Division (TDAD), and Applications Development The Technology the smooth ensures stewardship, under Michael Sherman’s (IT), GIS, and CAD technology information running of the agency’s needs. This technology future the agency’s and plans for systems that system submissions an electronic began testing TDAD year the to submit projects agencies to federal will enable the for evaluations site completed online. TDAD Commission home of the National of the future analysis Commission’s using and Culture, History American Museum of African The location. depict each proposed modeling to computer develop Force Task Street division also helped the South Capitol the corridor. transforming for design scenarios Technology Development and Applications Division Technology 16

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING passenger drop-off area. D.C. Courthouseentryplaza;andaproposed were proposed for theplaza;ramps leading to the Old with asurrounding water feature andbenchesthat proposed elements berevised, includingtwoskylights design. TheCommission recommended thatseveral Act; thefindingsfrom thisreview mayaffect thefinal review underSection106oftheHistoric Preservation facilities. Thepavilionsare currently undergoing hall ofremembrance, andadministrative andutility lower level, whichwillhouseexhibits, agiftshop, The pavilionswillprovide access to thebuilding’s using vaulted glass roofs for maximumtransparency. architect refined themuseum’s plannedpavilions, to earlierCommission recommendations, the plans for themuseuminDecember 2004.Responding NCPC reviewed andapproved revised designconcept ground pavilions. underground withaccess provided bytwoabove- (NLEOM). Themuseum’s exhibit space willbe the NationalLawEnforcement Officers Memorial Museum (NLEM)isplannedinJudiciarySquare, near enforcement officers, anewNationalLawEnforcement To honorthededication andsacrifice ofAmerican law Planned inJudiciarySquare National LawEnforcement Museum the square. glass roofs oftheentrance pavilions willextendinto Square willbemostlyunderground, butthevaulted EnforcementThe NationalLaw MuseuminJudiciary Polshek Partnership Architects Newseum design isdeveloped for Pennsylvania Avenue. installed while along-range, comprehensive security lights, androws oftrees. Theseelements willbe such asbenches,planters, Washington globe street palette ofPennsylvania Avenue streetscape elements, plans includeperimeter elements from theexisting perimeter securitymeasures for theNewseum.The In JuneNCPCreviewed andapproved temporary completion in2007. Construction ofthenewmuseumisslated for space thantheoriginalfacility inArlington, Virginia. feature sixlevels ofdisplaysandagreat dealmore Avenue neartheU.S.Capitol. Thenewfacility will First Amendment––is taking shapeonPennsylvania museum ofnewsthatcelebrates thevalue ofthe A new,expanded Newseum––an interactive new facilityonPennsylvania scheduledtoopenin2007. Avenue, perimeter security plansfor theNewseum’s temporary NCPC reviewed Davis Buckley ArchitectsDavis andPlanners Buckley 17

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 Photos: 1968 Historic American Building Survey Survey Building American Historic 1968 Photos: PROJECT REVIEW PROJECT Design and implementation of exterior lighting for of exterior Design and implementation facades. the historic Reconstruction of the F Street staircase to restore to staircase of the F Street Reconstruction on the the portico of integrity the architectural south façade. building’s and streetscape of a landscape Implementation that will reservation Office the Patent plan for in the as intended character and its stature restore Plan. L’Enfant of the two original and installation Restoration fountains. courtyard of new courtyard Design and installation with the building’s commensurate landscaping design character. historic J J J J J Because the revised submission does not reverse the does not reverse submission the revised Because previously courtyard, historic of the building’s loss the Commission demolished by the Smithsonian, the following implement to the Smithsonian directed measures: “We are pleased that Smithsonian officials agreed to that Smithsonian officials agreed pleased are “We move us to that enabled mitigation measures Urban Design said NCPC’s with this project,” forward Saum. “NCPC Christine Director and Plan Review that the Smithsonian ensure to had a responsibility this historic minimize harm to to steps took structure.” approved the Commission the canopy, In addition to courtyard a contemporary design for the concept the enjoy actively to visitors that will allow landscape working with the to forward NCPC looks space. the courtyard its plans for Smithsonian as it refines of the renovation design and completes landscape landmark. this historic

Patent Office Building Office Patent of one of courtyard the historic cover Plans to canopy a glass buildings with oldest Washington’s Building, Office The Patent forward. moving are Gallery National Portrait the Smithsonian’s home to is a Art Museum, and the Smithsonian American Landmark that was built in the National Historic Robert Mills, who mid-1800s. Designed by Architect Building and the also designed the Treasury Building Office Monument, the Patent Washington Plan and is in the L’Enfant site a key occupies of Greek examples one of the best considered in the country. architecture Revival the Smithsonian Institution In September of revised final approval and received requested the historic enclose and building plans to site its The Smithsonian revised courtyard. building’s a similar disapproved the Commission plan after the Smithsonian had not in June because proposal the harm to mitigate action to necessary taken building and setting. historic Photographs taken in 1968 show the Photographs Officehistoric Patent Courtyard, including one of two original fountains. Project Review Project Partners and Foster 18

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING accommodate thenewAnacostia Riverwalk. the street wallalong Second Street, andbetter Avenue shouldbemore prominent, better preserve that aproposed east gate to Fort McNaironPotomac The Commission advisedtheDepartmentofArmy Lincoln Hall. classrooms, study areas, andaninterior courtyard in auditorium, conference rooms, diningfacilities, shared atriumbetweenthebuildings,aformal 2005. Theplansincludeacentral courtyard and and finalfoundation plansfor theproject inFebruary NCPC approved preliminary site andbuildingplans Marshall Hall. architecturally compatible additionto theexisting stone buildingthatwillserve asafreestanding but to construct Lincoln Hall,anewthree-level brickand and conference space needs,theuniversity proposes military education. To meetitsclassroom, meeting, one ofthenation’s top centers for professional Washington, D.C.,theNationalDefense University is Located athistoric Fort McNairinsouthwest Serve MilitaryLeaders National Defense University ExpandstoBetter when permanentplansfor thesite are finalized. expected that10thandIStreets willreopen to vehicles MCI Center, inwhichNCPC played amajorrole, itis As partofthe1995Memorandum ofAgreement for the approved for nomore thanfive years. markets, andspecialevents. Thetemporary useis buses. Italsowillserve asalocation for festivals, term parkingfor upto 1,000vehicles, includingtour The site willfunctionasaparkinglot, offering short- access through thearea. recycled glass, wouldprovide theprimarypedestrian steel columns, benches, andapathpaved with Street ArtCorridor,featuring artwork supported on creates adestination for publicevents. The10th streetscape, provides amenitiesfor pedestrians, and visually appealinglocation thatenhances the a rain garden, andpedestrian pathways––create a The designfeatures––landscaping, banners, artwork, and buildingplansfor temporary development inApril. the Commission approved preliminary andfinalsite mixed-use development onthesite are notcomplete, downtown parcel. While thepermanentplansfor a Center offers anopportunityto develop aprime The demolitionoftheoldWashington Convention Short-Term Parking Old Convention CenterSitetoHost Events and exemplary newfederal facility. the newCensusBureau headquarters asan distance oftheSuitlandMetro station. NCPCviews development. Theheadquarters iswithinwalking NCPC’s goaloffostering transit-oriented creates outdoorgatheringspaces. Italsosupports incorporates daylightasmuchpossible, and minimizes thebuilding’s impactontheenvironment, the NationalCapital:Federal Elements policies outlinedinNCPC’s The CensusBureau headquarters meetsnumerous contribute to agreen campus. three gardens willsoften thebuilding’s settingand garden, andamanufactured garden. Together, the three landscaped zones:anurbangarden, anatural When complete, thenewheadquarters willfeature garage nearthefacility’s mainentrance. contemporary eight-story building withaparking plans for PhaseTwo, whichincludesa the Commission approved finalsite andbuilding Phase Oneisunderconstruction, andlast October in Suitland,Maryland. than 6,000employees attheSuitlandFederal Center constructing anewheadquarters facility for more To better fulfillitsmission, theU.S.CensusBureau is Environmentally Sensitive Headquarters Census Bureau Constructs Sustainable, Comprehensive Planfor . Thedesign Skidmore, Owings&MerrillLLP 19 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 PROJECT REVIEW PROJECT and to develop a Forest develop and to Comprehensive Plan for the National Comprehensive The revised master plan also includes design plan also includes master The revised the historic enhancing and protecting guidelines for National Historic ––a campus. the house in 1943 to completed Landmark––was II and War during World military expanding rapidly the Department of for the headquarters became that new guidelines ensure in 1947. The Defense design rules, to adheres on the site development and harmonious set of buildings a unified preserving The guidelines include and supporting elements. to on the height of all new structures restrictions the Pentagon. and from views to protect a achieve seeks to Plan Master The 2005 Pentagon sustainable and environmentally secure more may be less passersby come, to In years reservation. today’s security measures––as notice to likely with permanent replaced are barriers makeshift more the facility’s notice to likely more security––and setting. park-like natural, National Institutes of Health National Institutes Plan Revised Master one of buildings is just 12 new research for A proposal the Bethesda plan for the master to the updates of Health (NIH). The Campus of the National Institutes that have plan include projects the master to revisions the original since been planned or implemented in 1995. plan was adopted master surface the plan include consolidating to Other updates structures; underground and multi-level parking into activities; and and retail facilities childcare expanding the buffer enhance to landscaping additional providing edge. the campus around plan in master this updated approved The Commission to its parking ratio revise NIH to 2003 but instructed NCPC’s to conform Elements Capital: Federal by the Maryland Plan as instructed Conservation and Planning Commission. Park National Capital plan, NIH submitted master the revised In addition to a and building plans for and final site preliminary and Gateway Inspection Facility Vehicle Commercial which the facilities, approved The Commission Center. visitors. and admit campus will screen For those who live and work in the Washington area, a area, and work in the Washington those who live For a reveals years in recent by the Pentagon drive lie ahead as the alterations More changing campus. a new master implements Department of Defense in June. Two approved plan, which the Commission perimeter the secure primary objectives––completing strategies–– environmental and adopting sustainable Master the Pentagon update the Department to led 1991. time since the first Plan for within the is located the reservation Because seeks to the department Bay watershed, Chesapeake The runoff. water of storm effects the negative reduce will be parking lots surface expansive Pentagon’s with green, garages multi-level into consolidated Much of the water. that absorb storm roofs vegetative with trees and replaced will be reclaimed areas paved and grass. Pentagon Master Plan Update Master Pentagon Today, Judiciary Square is a historic quadrant facing quadrant historic is a Square Judiciary Today, meet these needs while To modern-day demands. historic the square’s to sensitive remaining is of the square revitalization careful importance, of the Changes include a major renovation underway. of an Old D.C. Courthouse and construction parking garage. underground included in the Judiciary Square are These projects in approved Plan, which the Commission Master perimeter landscaping, for with concepts along August of the parking. A main goal security, and tourbus of the the reorganization coordinate plan is to master of Columbia of the District and the functions facilities the Courts. In addition, the plan accommodates Museum, most Law Enforcement National proposed (See page 16). grade. of which will be built below master the square’s reviewed In May the Commission transportation- of several plan but withheld approval lines, curb including bus loading, elements, related a series of NCPC facilitated dock issues. and loading negotiate to meetings among the parties involved the to which led issues, outstanding solutions to in August. approval plan’s Judiciary Square Master Plan Master Judiciary Square MASTER PLANS MASTER planning long-term important an plans are Master or in a specific area guide development to used tool, design and standards development Through precinct. in consistency ensure plans help master guidelines, of buildings and and character the quality in the review as a tool serve also They streetscapes. plans, helping to proposed for process and approval preserving and often development integrated achieve character. historic a setting’s 20

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING A 21 plan, andNCPCserves on its board ofdirectors. Anacostia Waterfront Corporation to implement the District ofColumbiagovernment hasestablished the access to Washington’s waterfront, isunderway. The which furthers NCPC’s neighborhoods. Today the AWI Framework Plan, waterfront andintegrate itinto adjacent Initiative NCPC’s ideasanddeveloped with NCPCandotherfederal partners, builton destinations. TheDistrict ofColumbia,incoordination creation ofwaterside parksandattractive urban of Washington’s 22miles ofwaterfront andthe Capital forthe21stCentury NCPC’s 1997 waterfront withabundantamenities closer to reality. the past year helpedbringNCPC’s visionofalively neglected waterfront. Several Commission actionsin new memorialsandmuseumswilltransform today’s sidewalk cafes, shops,apartments,promenades, and both sidesoftheAnacostia River. Parks, , Georgetown to theSouthwest waterfront andalong D.C. willshowcase avibrant urbanwaterfront from If current planstake hold,inafew years, Washington, A Vibrant Waterfront for Washington ST Century WaterfrontCentury (AWI) Framework Planto revitalize the Extending theLegacy: PlanningAmerica’s Legacy Plan envisioned thereclamation The Anacostia Waterfront goals ofincreased neighborhoods. entrances will welcome parkgoers from surrounding Maryland. Along thetrail, safe andconvenient South Capitol Street to theBladensburg in continuous access to theeast sideoftheriver from river from 11thStreet to BenningRoadandnearly bicyclists continuous access to thewestern sideofthe along bothsidesoftheriver, givingpedestrians and When complete, theriverwalk willrunfor 48 miles will enhance thelandscape. and amixofcanopy, evergreen, andornamental trees integrated into theshoreline, andgrasses, shrubs, interpretive signs,andmaps.Thetrail willbe and orientation areas withbenches, bike racks, The plannedriverwalk willincludecircular resting Navy Yard andextending northward to BenningRoad. river’s western bank,beginningattheWashington The approved planscover thelength ofthetrail onthe plans for Section2oftheAnacostia Riverwalk Trail. of theAWI Framework Plan––preliminary andfinal In June,theCommission approved akey component Access toWater’s Edge Riverwalk toGive Pedestrians andCyclists PROJECT REVIEW ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL 2005

New design standards for the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative area will guide streetscape improvements, the installation of public art, and new street furnishings such as the manhole covers shown here. Courtesy of the District Columbia Department Transportation 21

Design Standards to Beautify Southeast and Southwest Washington Streetscape improvements recommended in NCPC’s identify alternative contemporary lighting fixtures Legacy Plan are beginning to transform the M Street that are more compatible with Washington’s corridor in Southeast Washington, and similar traditional globe light fixtures. NCPC also called changes are planned for the area covered by the upon DDOT to use uniform paving materials along AWI Framework Plan. In February the Commission symbolic corridors and suggested that DDOT work approved the draft Anacostia Transportation with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Architecture Design Manual. Prepared by the Authority to develop guidelines for bus shelters in District Department of Transportation (DDOT), the the AWI development area. manual is based on the goals of the AWI and the themes of NCPC’s Legacy Plan. It establishes design While remaining true to NCPC’s Legacy vision, the standards for streets in the AWI area and covers manual also complies with concepts set forth in streetscape improvements, such as transit and NCPC’s Comprehensive Plan for the National Capital: bicycle lanes, street furniture, signage, lighting, Federal Elements, including environmental landscaping, pedestrian spaces, and the inclusion of stewardship; increasing waterfront access; promoting public art. pedestrian, bike, and transit-friendly rights of way; enhancing the identity of neighborhoods; and In approving the draft manual, the Commission made integrating the waterfront with the monumental core several recommendations. For symbolic corridors in and the U.S. Capitol complex. the AWI area, NCPC recommended that DDOT

Urban Design and Plan Review Division

One of NCPC’s core responsibilities is the review of proposed regional federal development projects–– including new or renovated buildings, memorials, and museums. The Urban Design and Plan Review Division (UDPRD), led by Christine Saum, reviews all plans to ensure that they meet the highest design standards as well as comply with federal environmental and historic preservation laws. UDPRD also examines all D.C. public projects and proposed policies, plans, and zoning actions for impact on the federal interest. In the past year, UDPRD reviewed several master plan projects, perimeter security plans, and extensive revitalization plans for Washington’s waterfront. 22

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING entrance design. entrance to provide amore welcoming andrefined and apedestrian sidewalkattheWisconsin Avenue applicant to modifytheproposed streetlight design were notavailable. TheCommission alsoguidedthe attendant seatingbecause details onthestructure approval ofaproposed pergola designandits sense ofopenness. TheCommission withheld unobstructed viewsoftheriver along withagreater direction andensured thattheparkprovides fulland feature. ThePark Service incorporated NCPC’s earlier displays, openlawns,andaninteractive water park willincludeariverfront promenade, interpretive terminus. Consisting of2.3acres, thisportionofthe development plansfor theWisconsin Avenue In July, theCommission approved preliminary site paving materials inthepark. reflect theCommission’s request for more simplified promenade, andallplantmaterials. Theplansalso systems, renovation oftheseawallbulkhead,apaved section. Thefinalplansaddress sidewalks,lighting Wisconsin Avenue Terminus, thepark’s easternmost development plansfor theentire parkexcept the In June,theCommission approved thefinalsite a 10-acre waterfront parkin Georgetown. NW, along the willbetransformed into Park Service landstretching from 31st to 34thStreet, limited to theAnacostia River shoreline. National Efforts to improve Washington’s waterfront are not Reborn asanUrbanPark Georgetown Waterfront tobe ncsi ie oteRKStadiumgrounds. totheRFK Anacostia River connecting HeritageandKingmanIslandsinthe theboardwalk toimprove Plans are underway construction ofanature center onKingmanIsland. National Park Service land.Future plansinclude connection to Heritage andKingmanIslandsthrough . Theproject improves anexisting docks willbeaddedto thedockingpavilionin landing pointsoftheboardwalk, andfloating kayak New banners andseatingelements willembellishthe lot to OklahomaAvenue andexisting picnicareas. mulched pathsandstriping through theRFKparking grounds ofRFKstadium. Theproject willprovide Kingman IslandsintheAnacostia River to the rehabilitate theboardwalk thatconnects Heritage and The District DepartmentofParks andRecreation will Design Plans. Lower KingmanIslandHabitat Restoration–Entrance reality bygivingpreliminary andfinalapproval to the Commission brought thisvisionasmallstep closer to of parks,islands,andwetlands.InMaythe and anAnacostia River thatisanecological precinct major linkbetweenWashington’s monumental core The Kingman andHeritageIslandstotheShore Boardwalk Restoration toConnect Legacy Plan the agency’s collection are alsosearchable. 10 years. Allbooks,documents, andotherplanningmaterials in files related to projects reviewed bytheCommission inthepast contained inNCPC’s archives andlibrary. Staff can nowsearch all Secretariat developed databases to track theresources public meetings.Duringthepast year, thestaff oftheOffice ofthe certifies theCommission’s officialactions taken duringmonthly NCPC’s staff andmembers oftheCommission. Ms. Young Secretariat Deborah Young serves astheofficialliaisonbetween oftheSecretariat Office envisions asa 23 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 Comprehensive LONG-RANGE PLANNINGLONG-RANGE and compiling the and compiling to m. Working with the m. Working ® Federal Capital Improvements Progra Capital Improvements Federal National Park Service, the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation, Department of Parks the D.C. Service, National Park during the past also worked of Planning, PRPD and the D.C. Office the plan for framework open space a coordinated developing on year Region. National Capital Planning Research and Policy Division Policy and Planning Research Koster (PRPD) under Julia Division Policy and Research The Planning planning and research on long-range NCPC to guidance provides updating the for policies. The division is responsible Elements Federal Plan for the National Capital: annual provides guidance on how to achieve these achieve on how to guidance provides NCPC and Regional Planners NCPC and Regional Planners “Reality Check” Experience job a robust enjoys region the Washington Today, downsides, namely that has some unfortunate market housing, congested of affordable a shortage What will system. Metro highways, and a crowded and the now if the job rate from happen 25 years as expected? grow to population continue region’s Washington the Urban Land Institute’s In February, Smart Growth Council and Washington District a brainstorming held “Reality Check,” Alliance Region how the National Capital address to session NCPC Chairman growth. skyrocketing will handle Patricia Director Cogbill, III, Executive John V. which in the event, participated Gallagher, and staff than more officials from 300 elected nearly attracted Using maps and Legos jurisdictions. 20 regional jobs and housing units, attendees represent them to that challenged in exercises participated to expected the 1 million new residents accommodate by 2020. in the area live between jurisdictions Officials identified coordination the future. in planning for element as a vital the also endorsed participants Conference near transit development of open space; preservation NCPC’s developments. and mixed-use centers; Plan for the National Capital: Federal Comprehensive Elements goals. The plan is available and other smart growth online at www.ncpc.gov. Federal Capital Federal (FCIP). Published annually, (FCIP). , federal agency master plans, and other agency master , federal important federal policies. OMB uses the FCIP as a policies. OMB uses the FCIP federal important annual budget. the president’s guide when preparing fiscal covers in September, approved FCIP, This year’s of 210 projects––170 2011 and contains 2006 to years by other agencies––totaling submitted which were that projects 35 endorsed $7.3 billion. NCPC strongly planning or local federal to critical it considered another and policies. NCPC recommended initiatives plans NCPC and local to that conform 117 projects as categorized were projects and policies. Eighteen which purposes only, program for recommended and local federal to do not conform means that they be modified. planning policies and must by the Base was affected FCIP This year’s the Because Act (BRAC). Realignment and Closure BRAC not finalized when NCPC decisions were is on DoD facilities information the FCIP, adopted change. NCPC or subject to limited that anticipates documents will include detailed FCIP future such as facilities, BRAC-affected for information Belvoir. and Fort Center Reed Army Medical Walter or online at upon request is available The FCIP www.ncpc.gov. the FCIP gives the Office of Management and Budget the Office gives the FCIP or renovation construction at all federal a look tags. price their anticipated and projects and projects all federal NCPC evaluates In the FCIP, which should be funded. When reviewing recommends with its own conformity for NCPC looks projects, Plan for the National Capital: Federal Comprehensive Elements Federal Capital Improvements Program Program Capital Improvements Federal NCPC submit to agencies must all federal Each year the for projects improvement capital their plans for these plans and compiles NCPC six years. coming one document, the into projects Program Improvements IV. Long-Range Planning 24

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING “This study step isafirst toward the “This understanding NCPC Commissioner Michael McGill and thehousingmarket intheWashington region.” complex relationship between the federal workforce retain talented workers intheNCR. prices on thegovernment’s abilityto attract and and delve deeperinto theimpactofrisinghome follow-up study thatwouldanswerthesequestions staff isexploring thepossibility ofconducting a implications for thefederal government. NCPC estate prices inthearea have important policy These questions coupled withescalating real affordable homes? extremely long commutes inorder to live inmore private-sector employees, willingto tolerate larger numberoffederal workers, compared to facing severe housingaffordability issues? Are a federal employees, albeitasmallpercentage, sections ofthefederal workforce. Whyare some The study raised questions aboutvarious cross- homes harder to find. transportation systems andismakingaffordable placing furtherstrains onalready taxed foreseeable future. Thegrowing populationis This trend isexpected to continue for the of jobshave attracted aninfluxofnewresidents. The region’s healthyeconomy andgrowing number their housingconditions andneeds. where federal workers live andwork,identifies workforce to thenon-federal workforce, determines (Census 2000),thestudy compares thefederal Drawing upondata from themost recent census demographics oftheregion’s federal workforce. The study alsoprovides arare viewofthe reasonable commuting times. affordable housingingoodneighborhoodswith victim ofitsownsuccess ifitcan nolonger provide The study cautions thattheregion could become a challenges for regional andfederal decisionmakers. while highly positive, could present future metropolitan area’s current economic prosperity, Washington, D.C.Region,”findsthatthe “Housing andtheFederal Workforce inthe and overall qualityoflife. Thecommissioned study, relationship to theregion’s housing,transportation, study theregion’s large federal workforce andits planning staff worked withtheUrbanInstitute to During fiscal year 2005,NCPC’s long-range Planning for theFuture Washington’s Federal Workforce: V. InternationalOutreach protecting thepublicrealm. and implementing securityreinforcements while open space; thechallenges ofrapidly growing cities; Other conference topics includedpreservation of development inAmerica’s capital. share examples ofcitizensandpartners shaping public agencies.NCPC’s delegates were pleased to public-private partnerships to jointinitiatives by successful development ofcapital cities,from resources andgroups together to ensure the capitals must focus oninnovative waysto bring Gallagher andMs.MacSpaddendiscussed how England, France, Russia, andSouthAfrica. Ms. seven othercountries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, They joinedrepresentatives from capital citiesin MacSpadden represented theagencyinOttawa. Gallagher andPublicAffairs Director Lisa In September, NCPC’s Executive Director Patricia national government. those thatare uniqueto citiesserving astheseatof challenges thatface majorurbancenters aswell Alliance delegates share strategies for handling for seniorplanningofficialsfrom around theworld. Alliance, launchedin2002asaninternational forum Washington isafounding partnerinCapitals and thesecond inOttawa inSeptember 2005. the first onehosted inBrasilia inNovember 2004, collaborated ontwoCapitals Alliance conferences, NCPC ontheinternational front. Agencystaff The past fiscal year proved to beabusyonefor Capitals Alliance INTERNATIONAL OUTREACH ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL 2005

Scenes from Capitals Alliance 2005 held in Ottawa, Canada

25

Before concluding the week’s activities, senior Sharing Knowledge with delegates from each city agreed to focus future Professionals Around the World meetings on how capital cities can serve as models for communities around the world and promote the NCPC hosted nearly a dozen visiting foreign principles of sustainable development and smart delegations during the past year, providing growth. The next meeting of the Alliance is scheduled information on the agency’s work in the nation’s for early 2007 in Canberra, Australia. capital and sharing expertise with professionals from a host of other nations. Officials visited from Australia, Nearly a year before the Ottawa gathering, Capitals the Republic of Georgia, Korea, Panama, Nigeria, and Alliance participants met in Brasilia, the dream city China. Several international groups visited as part of of mid-century Modernists and the venue for the the U.S. Department of State International Visitor third annual meeting of the Alliance in November Leadership Program. The groups were primarily 2004. Commission member Jerry Shiplett and staff interested in learning how NCPC balances federal and members Julia Koster and Denise Liebowitz local interests when reviewing development projects; represented NCPC. Argentina, Australia, Canada, examples of recent revitalization efforts; cultural and and Korea also sent delegates. NCPC staff historic preservation issues; and capital city planning. presented briefings on urban planning in the Washington metropolitan region, historic preservation, and security design. The program also Top government featured working sessions on topics of shared officials from interest such as national commemoration and Canberra, Australia joined NCPC for a relationships between the capital city and the tour of downtown surrounding region. Brazilian architectural Washington’s historians led site visits to some of the city’s most redevelopment notable public buildings and urban design features efforts in June. that have become icons of the Modernist movement.

Office of Public Affairs

Under Lisa MacSpadden’s direction, the Office of Public Affairs (OPA) promotes the Commission’s activities and special initiatives. In fiscal year 2005, OPA coordinated NCPC’s participation in numerous public events including an exhibit at the National Building Museum highlighting the agency’s urban design and security work; a symposium that brought together local and federal officials to explore how security measures are impacting the quality of life in the NCR; public comment sessions on the agency’s vision to transform the South Capitol Street corridor; and informational roll-outs to coincide with the launch of the Circulator transit system. 26

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING alignments inthenation’s capital. Department ofTransportation to study alternative rail corridor; andworked to reach anagreement withtheDistrict agency’s detailed visionto revitalize theSouthCapitol Street launching thenewCirculator transit system; directed the Capital Region.Duringthepast year, OEDguidedNCPC’s role in Commission onplannedfederal development intheNational administrative operations, andoffer expertise to the agency’s strategic planningactivities,oversee NCPC’s staff intheOffice oftheExecutive Director (OED)direct the Under theleadership ofExecutive Director Patricia Gallagher, Director oftheExecutive Office VI. Achievements national conference heldinSanFrancisco inMarch. NCPC received thedistinguished awards duringAPA’s environmental planningatthemetropolitan scale.” but through thecareful integration ofurbanand approaches sustainability notsimply as a buzzword, “...this plangetsaperfect score…. Theplan Region over thenext twodecades. APA judges said, is ablueprintfor development intheNationalCapital competition for federal projects. Thelong-range plan Outstanding Sustainable Planning for theNationalCapital:Federal Elements APA alsoselected NCPC’s emergency services. environment while allowing for evacuation routes and fine urbandesignandenhances thepedestrian the nation’s capital thatrepresents goodplanningand recognized itsabilityto foster perimeter securityin good design.Inselecting NCPC’s plan,APA promote Safe Growth, whichbalances securityand Current Topic Award recognized planningefforts that Plan Capital UrbanDesignandSecurity prestigious the American PlanningAssociation (APA) bestowed its important places andstructures around thecountry, secure environments to awhole newlevel for Calling itaplanthattakes theplanningofphysically National APA Awards NCPC IsProud RecipientofTwo Current Topic Award Comprehensive Plan on NCPC’s entry inthe . The2005 as the National honor asoneofthe get to workviapublictransportation earnedNCPCan Reducing chokingcar traffic andhelpingemployees Helping Workers GettoWork Hood, and2004Pritzker Prize-winnerZahaHadid. architects Rafael Viñoly, landscape architect Walter exhibit alsoshowcased theworksofworld-renowned security atthefamous SmithsonianCastle. The Avenue in front oftheWhite Houseandperimeter projects from theplan:redesign ofPennsylvania security projects. Theexhibit featured twoprominent portion oftheexhibit showcasing successful U.S. NCPC’s groundbreaking securityplananchored the space inanera ofheightened security. demonstrate howcitiesandtowns develop public innovative projects from around theworldthat Space,” inspring2005.Thisexciting exhibit presented Museum’s exhibit, “OPEN:NewDesignsfor Public Plan NCPC’s NCPC SecurityPlanTakes totheRoad and airpollution. commuter benefitsto helpreduce theregion’s traffic its efforts inproviding itsemployees withoutstanding Department ofTransportation recognized NCPCfor The Environmental Protection AgencyandtheU.S. was afeatured project intheNationalBuilding National CapitalUrbanDesignandSecurity Best Workplaces for Commuters . 27 ANNUAL REPORT 2005 2,287,769 1,814,438 FINANCIAL REPORT FINANCIAL 1,183,329 1,025,552

709,997 631,109 236,666 During fiscal year 2005, NCPC embarked on several new several on NCPC embarked 2005, year During fiscal Department with the District such as partnering initiatives alternatives, relocation railroad study to of Transportation new urban design and security guidelines and developing and provide in security technology advances address to design guidance. updated NCPC continued launching these new efforts, While such as ensuring that mission, its core to activities related of practices the best plans represent development federal the and increasing industries, the design and construction audiences international national, and of local, involvement capital. the nation’s in planning for activities and met strategic NCPC managed these of $7,888,860, 2005 with a budget year in fiscal objectives year. the previous over increase than 1 percent less Protect and enhance historic and natural resources while accommodating while resources and natural historic and enhance Protect capital. change in the nation’s Implement the President’s Management Agenda. Management the President’s Implement national, and international of local, the involvement Educate and increase in the national capital. in planning and development audiences to support technologies art information state-of-the Promote planning. integrated Ensure that the location and design of all federal buildings in the region and design of all federal that the location Ensure an establish establishment; functioning of the federal the effective promote and adhere employees; federal for environment work efficient and pleasant planning, and urban design standards. architectural, to the highest Preserve and enhance the unique beauty and image of the national capital and enhance Preserve its planned development. and ensure Anticipate emerging development, transportation, environmental, and historic and environmental, transportation, development, Anticipate emerging and its economic quality of life the region’s needs that affect preservation to meet those needs. and projects plans, partnerships, vitality; develop Personnel Compensation/BenefitsPersonnel Expenses Operating General TravelPrintingConsulting Services $4,997,870 Other Services BudgetTotal $1,847,666 $ 655,724 $ 56,836 $ 242,398 $ 88,366 $7,888,860 Fiscal Year 2005 Analysis of Resources 2005 Analysis Fiscal Year Office of Administration by OED led currently (OA), of Administration The Office important Barry Socks, provides Officer Executive such as human resources agency services management, budget and financial guidance, 2005, the year fiscal In and contracting. procurement, that an agency-wide review conducted team OA and linked competencies workforce identified critical the agency’s to planning and development workforce Merit the agency’s also updated The office mission. and rules aligning it with current Policy, Promotion a new performance and developed regulations, staff. Service Senior Executive management plan for VII. Financial Report VII. Financial 28

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 NATIONAL COMMISSION CAPITAL PLANNING VIII. LookingtotheFuture: NCPC’s Year Ahead regional authoritiesandorganizations. businesses, advocacy groups, thegeneral public,and federal agencies,local governments, stakeholders, slated to beginnext year, andwillactively involve other Service comprehensive managementplanfor theMall, develop theproject to complement aNationalPark many oftheavenues inthevicinityofMall.NCPCwill services; andfoster streetscape improvements along promote high-qualitysecuritydesign;improve visitor development ofmemorialandmuseumsites offtheMall; to relieve pressures ontheMallbyfacilitating the surrounding theNationalMall.Theintent oftheproject is initiatives, bringingthemto bearontheprecincts will integrate key elements ofitssignature planning In fiscal year 2006,NCPCplansto develop aproject that NCPC toFocus ontheFederal City year 2007. the recommendations oftheplan––is slated for fiscal space. ThefinalphaseofCapitalSpace––implementing by aphysical planfor Washington’s parksandopen of theDistrict Parks andOpenSpace” report, followed include aneedsassessment thatculminates ina“State as data onthecurrent conditions. Theinitiative alsowill shared database containing historic information aswell Washington’s parksandopenspace anddevelop a CapitalSpace partners planto establish standards for parks andopenspace to thehighest possible standards. scarce resources to design,program, and maintain our new neighborhoodshave adequate parkland;andshare and clarifyappropriate uses;ensure thatestablished and parks; managetheconflicting demandsplaced onparks opportunity to achieve amore seamless networkofurban Together, thefounding partners ofCapitalSpace seean system for thenation’s capital. National Park Service to develop CapitalSpace, apark and Recreation, theD.C.Office ofPlanning,andthe NCPC isjoiningforces withtheD.C.DepartmentofParks land could enhance theparksandavoid duplicated efforts, Recognizing thatmore coordinated managementofthe government, and,occasionally, nonprofit organizations. this landisshared bylocal governments, thefederal forested areas. However, ownership andmanagementof L’Enfant Plan,neighborhood“pocket parks,”andlarge parks, theformal circles andsquares established bythe to parksandopenspace. Openspace includescommunity Almost 20percent oflandinWashington, D.C.isdevoted NCPC andPartners toDevelop Parks Strategy agency project inthecoming year. looks forward to embarkingonthisambitiousmulti- agencies andfoster reliable andeasydata sharing.NCPC online databases thatprovide geographic data to federal data NCPCcollects into TheNationalMap,anetworkof In addition,theU.S.Geological Survey willintegrate the valuable for emergency preparedness plans. as wellregional organizations willfindthedata Administration andtheDepartmentofHomelandSecurity Federal agencies,suchastheGeneral Services GIS, computer-assisted design,andweb-mapping. projects, interagency e-government initiatives thatinvolve The data collected willbeusedinnumerous NCPC first time. comprehensive regional GISdata inoneplace for the in fiscal year 2006andprovide ameansto access agencies to update thiscollection ofaerialphotographs NCPC haspartnered withseveral federal andlocal grow.to post-9/11 era, demandfor accurate mapdata continues and regional agenciesanalyze theirsecurityneedsinthe Information System (GIS)maps.Inaddition,asfederal Space Museumdonotappearoncurrent Geographical new Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center oftheNationalAirand the American Indian,theD.C.Convention Center, andthe Memorial, theFDRNationalMuseumof significantly. Newfacilities suchastheWorld War II In thelast sixyears, theregion’s geography haschanged found onNCPC’s maps. data layers thatdescriberoads, buildings,andvegetation studies, to nameafew. Alloftheseprojects usecritical realignment feasibility studies, andforeign mission site design scenarios for SouthCapitol Street, railroad as the planning andsite designanalysis for majorinitiatives such NCPC relies onhigh-resolution aerialmapsto conduct Photography Technology DivisiontoUpdateRegion’s Aerial people asmuchfor thepeople. our goalto ensure thatWashington, D.C. isacitybythe today’s most important planning decisions.AtNCPCitis meetings, NCPCstrives to promote publicdialogue on soliciting publicinputduringmonthly commission regional issues, publishingaquarterly newsletter, and planning initiatives, offering symposiaonpressing nation. Byhosting informational publicmeetingsonmajor works to shapethebest capital cityfor ourregion andthe NCPC willcontinue to encourage publicinvolvement asit in planningfor thenation’s capital. Intheyear ahead, NCPC remains committed to fostering publicparticipation Public isKey to21 National Capital Urban Design and Security Plan National CapitalUrbanDesignandSecurity st Century Capital , Commission Members Office of Administration Barry S. Socks, Executive Officer Presidential Appointees Terrine D. Flythe, Human Resources Assistant John V. Cogbill, III, Chairman William J. Knight, Messenger/Mail and Files Herbert F. Ames Angela K. Roach, Management and Program Analyst Jose L. Galvez, III Phyllis A. Vessels, Human Resources Specialist

Mayoral Appointees Plan and Project Implementation Division William G. Dowd, Director Patricia Elwood, Vice Chair Stefanie D. Brown, Community Planner Arrington Dixon Elizabeth D. Miller, Sr. Urban Planner/Designer AICP, ASLA George C. Toop, Jr., Architect (Urban Design) Ex Officio Members Michael W. Weil, Community Planner (Transportation) The Honorable Donald H. Rumsfeld Roszonna E. Whitsett, Management Assistant Secretary of Defense David A. Zaidain, Community Planner The Honorable Gale A. Norton Secretary of the Interior Planning Research and Policy Division The Honorable Stephen A. Perry Julia A. Koster, Director, AICP Administrator of General Services Kael Anderson, Community Planner Jeffrey L. Hinkle, Community Planner, AICP The Honorable Susan M. Collins Chairman, Committee on Governmental Affairs John A. Mann II, Community Planner, AICP Tony Simon, Community Planner, AICP The Honorable Tom Davis Stacy T. Wood, Community Planner Chairman, Committee on Government Reform United States House of Representatives Urban Design and Plan Review Division The Honorable Anthony A. Williams Christine L. Saum, Director, AIA Mayor, District of Columbia David L. Hamilton, Community Planner/Architect Eugene A. Keller, Community Planner (Environmental), ASLA The Honorable Linda W. Cropp Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia David W. Levy, Senior Community Planner, RA, AICP Marjorie Marcus, Community Planner, RA, AICP Office of the Executive Director Jonathan A. McIntyre, Architect (Urban Design), RA Patricia E. Gallagher, Executive Director, AICP Nancy Witherell, Historic Preservation Officer Marcel C. Acosta, Deputy Executive Director, AICP Lois Schiffer, General Counsel Technology Development and Applications Division Barry S. Socks, Executive Officer Michael A. Sherman, Director Priscilla A. Brown, Executive Assistant Tony D. Champ, Information Technology Specialist Shane L. Dettman, Community Planner (GIS) Office of the Secretariat Nicole Green-Catten, Community Planner (CAD) Deborah B. Young, Secretariat C. Jody Rieder, Information Technology Specialist Marcella M. Brown, Information Resources Specialist Kenneth T. Walton, Community Planner (CAD) Raksha C. Patel, Management Assistant LaWan L. Price, Management Assistant Photo Credits: Office of Public Affairs David L. Hamilton, Paul A. Jutton, Lisa MacSpadden Lisa N. MacSpadden, Director Margaret Fleming Glennon, Public Affairs Specialist Jeanine Herbst, Public Affairs Specialist Paul A. Jutton, Graphic Designer Marybeth Murphy, Writer-Editor Stephen O. Staudigl, Public Affairs Specialist NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION 401 9th Street, NW, North Lobby, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20004 Tel: 202 482-7200 Fax: 202 482-7272 www.ncpc.gov info@ ncpc.gov