Draft Visitors' & Commemoration Element Released for Public Comment

The Comp Plan's draft Visitors & Commemoration Element was released for public comment through March 15. The draft element provides new and updated policies related to national commemoration and other cultural attractions, and considers efforts to enhance visitor access such as improved transportation. Save the date for a February 20 public meeting.

	Visitors & Commemoration Element webpage

Next Commission Meeting
February 7, 2013 | 1:00PM

Live video from Commission meetings is available online at: ncpc.gov/live

SW Ecodistrict Plan Completed

The Commission accepted the SW Ecodistrict Plan at its January meeting. In addition to accommodating the future space needs of the federal government, the ecodistrict will extend the civic qualities of the National Mall, create new places to live, and promote a vibrant, open, and walkable neighborhood. Led by NCPC, the initiative, involving 17 federal and District agencies, seeks to transform a 15-block federal precinct just south of the National Mall into a showcase of sustainable urban development.

With the Commission’s action, the plan will guide future planning studies and development proposals in the area. We're working on three studies to implement the plan – a stormwater infrastructure study, 10th Street Interim Streetscape & Banneker Overlook Connection study, and an economic analysis.

	Read the plan

Climate Adaptation Strategies for Washington

With Hurricane Irene, the 2010 blizzard, and other record-breaking weather events hitting the Washington area, planning together for extreme weather and other climate adaptation strategies is critical. In January, NCPC invited NASA experts to discuss their work assisting cities and federal facilities prepare for climate adaptation. Over the coming months, NCPC will explore opportunities to work with other regional stakeholders on climate adaptation initiatives that could be applied to Washington.

	Video of NASA presentation to Commission

Take Aways

• President Obama reappoints NCPC chair L. Preston Bryant, Jr.
• 2012 NCPC Year in Review released.
• Coalition for Smarter Growth hosts walkable urbanism forum on 1/22 at NCPC.
• GSA hosts FBI Headquarters RFI Industry Day on 1/17.
• Best wishes to Jody Rieder, Director of Administration, who retired after 41 years of federal service.
• Public Comment Opportunities:1) Comprehensive Plan’s Federal Urban Design and 2) Preservation & Historic Features Elements.