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This map illustrates the Monumental Core Streetscape Guide and Construction Manual boundary as well as the street categories defined within the Urban Design Streetscape Framework. Streets are defined by their national and local identity; relationships to nationally significant structures or spaces; and civic, ceremonial, and symbolic roles.
Street categories require different levels of visual consistency to support their role within the framework of the monumental core and capital city. Radiating and edging streets require the highest level of consistency, while local streets allow for the highest level of variability.
These bench styles are currently approved for use throughout the monumental core.
Background and Context
Washington’s streetscapes contribute to the city’s unique role as the nation’s capital.
They create a welcoming and livable environment for all and reinforce a special civic
quality that inspires and cultivates a sense of pride, permanence, and dignity.
The monumental core is a place where the details matter – and where streetscapes must
meet elevated standards. Streetscape consistency is important along nationally and
locally significant corridors, many of which frame views to nationally significant
structures and open spaces within the capital city. The Streetscape Guide helps to
achieve these aspirations by providing principles and guidance on the planning, design,
and construction of distinguished capital city streets.
Key Information
- Prepared by:
National Capital Planning Commission
- Accepted: May 2025
- Published: 2005
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Current
The Interagency Working Group is currently updating the 1993 Construction Manual to be consistent with the Streetscape Guidelines and address today’s best practices in construction details and specifications. It is expected to be finalized by October 2025. Once complete, it will help guide agencies, designers, engineers, and facilities managers who are undertaking streetscape construction or maintenance projects within the monumental core.
Plan Chapters
Introduction
Offers an overview of where the guidelines apply and how they are administered, and a summary of their foundational basis. It also includes references to federal and local policies, guidance, standards, and regulations.
Urban Design Streetscape Framework
Provides the organizational structure for streets as defined by their national and local identity and roles at various scales. These include principles and criteria for gateways, thresholds and approaches, which reinforce streetscape consistency among streetscape elements.
Streetscape Design Guidelines
Presents principles and guidelines for individual streetscape elements organized by three categories: vertical elements (e.g., trees, light poles), surface elements (e.g., landscape and plantings), and small scale elements (e.g., benches, parking pay stations).
Construction Manual
Identifies both performance and prescriptive construction details and specifications. It is currently under development and will be finalized by the end of 2025.
Lighting Policy, Framework, and Specifications
Provides a conceptual hierarchy for illuminated components within the monumental core and surrounding federal areas, as well as LED lighting specifications.
Endnotes & Appendices
Includes additional information for the urban design framework and streetscape elements, such as tree species list, bird and bat best management practices, permitting information, and sample maintenance agreements.
