Federal Urban Design Element Policies
Feedback Survey

"The height limit differentiates and distinguishes Washington from other American cities."

"I think a good compromise would be the "step effect" whereas the height of the portion of a building closest to the street would remain short, while the rear/inner portion of the building not adjacent to the street front would rise. This would ensure that streets receive sunlight (the original intent of the height of buildings act), while allowing buildings to be taller."

"I agree, to a point. In cities such as Madrid, the taller buildings are relegated to newer areas and the historic core is protected. The idea of taller buildings along the K Street corridor is worth considering."

"This is creating monotonous buildings; pair this requirement with a requirement to articulate the facade so that every building is not the same inflated balloon of development rights with a flat facade. "

"I support removing or modifying the Height of Buildings Act, outside of the federal core of DC. The law unfairly restricts the growth of the District and promotes urban sprawl. It also robs the District of tax revenue from greater development."

"Like a few of the comments here, I think that the original height restrictions should remain for the down town historic areas, as that is what creates the "civic" effect. However for the other areas of the city a, forgive the term, form based code that created stepped-articulated facades that preserve the pedestrian realm may be more appropriate."

"Building heights should be regulated to protect the monumental City skyline, but some areas/neighborhoods in the District should be able to accommodate additional heights as their character warrants."

"Control building heights to protect views of the Capital and national monuments. "

"Washington DC is a unique city becasue of its baroque plan and the fact that it is it the capital of the United States. It does not have to look like every other city in the United States. The Height Act of 1910 should be retained and enforced."

"...giving preference to small businesses owned by US citizens and DC residents."

"Is this subsidy or opportunity?"

"Start with the FBI building"

"Include educational signage. "

"It is about time we start thinking how federal building can bring in local tax revenue rather than being a financial burden."

"Would need to figure out a cost effective way for this to happen while maintainig ATFP requirements or else this will not be able to be implemented."

"I assume this only pertains to federal buildings..."

"Ok until it gets to limiting security measures. Integration is good, but NCPC has a nasty habit of down playing the public safety of security measures on the altar of aesthetics. "

"Sometimes a blank wall is a wonderful backdrp for sculpture and/or landscaping. This survey seems to be trying to be a design guideline; but there are a lot of nuances to each item which needs to be studied and developed in more detail."

"We are an urban area. These things happen; however, they can be designed well."

"The priority of these areas should be for the movement of pedestrians - as a sustainable transportation alternative to the personal automobile. The elements listed in G3 are important, but should not impede pedestrian accessibility."

"It depends - seating and public art might be appropriate in certain contexts. "

"Too much open public space can also become barren and uninviting. Large plazas often fail as good public space. DC has many examples."

"Active only around appropriate buildings/icons"

"Include attractive lighting and seating in all public spaces around federal buildings. "

" "

"And consider designs other than bollards for security."

"Please remove Jersey barriers, chain fences, anything haphazard or "temporary-looking""