FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When will the short list of competition finalists be announced? What is the timeline for the competition and installation?

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the competition was put on hold and the selection of finalists postponed. No date was determined for when this hold will be lifted. We will post more information as it comes available. See the official notice on FedBizOpps.gov

Why was this site selected?

This 2-acre site is under GSA jurisdiction and is embraced by a monumental and historic building on Pennsylvania Avenue. It was selected because it is close to the National Mall and downtown and has direct metro access. The site functions primarily as an ornamental green and pass-through; it is not a place that people currently use for passive or active activities. We believe the site provides an interesting opportunity to expose and engage workers, residents and visitors to a temporary commemoration project, and also to explore the ability of a temporary exhibit to enhance a public space.

How was the theme chosen?

NCPC and GSA selected the theme of Earth Day though consultation with the competition consultant — Landair Project Resources. While the overall objective of the Beyond Granite competition is to explore the opportunities created through temporary forms of commemoration, Landair recommended the selection of a specific commemorative theme to provide a focus for the competition submissions. Given that the installation site is immediately adjacent to the offices of the US Environmental Protection Agency, commemoration of the purpose and positive impact of Earth Day was deemed appropriate for the site.

Should temporary memorials replace permanent memorials?

Permanent commemoration is and will always be an important part of Washington.  A temporary installation is another way to celebrate and reflect upon events and ideas that are important to Americans.  The competition’s resulting temporary installation will help us determine if and how temporary alternatives could work for potential memorial sponsors who may not have ideas that are appropriate for permanent commemoration (as defined under the Commemorative Works Act) and/or the financial means to build a permanent memorial.

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