S and T Street Parks Get Makeover

I am pleased to announce that work will begin soon on the parks at S and T Streets. You may have noticed the new fencing and architectural drawings. These projects will include a dog park at the S Street park. I joined Mayor Fenty, Councilmember Jack Evans, and other community leaders at the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, February 10. The ANC has worked to bring these projects to fruition for eight years. We have discussed these parks during every year of my three terms. At last, we have results! The work is scheduled to be completed by Memorial Day...just in time for summer!

Photo courtesy of NEWS NOW at www.dc.gov

Whitman Walker Project Moves Forward

The Board of Zoning Adjustment approved the request by the JBG Companies, the developer (http://www.jbg.com/), for a variance and four special exeptions at its meeting on Tuesday, February 3. The mixed use project now goes back to the Historic Preservation Review Board for approval of its conceptual design later this month.

The Historic Preservation Office staff report indicates that "the design (shown above as presented at the Dec. 18 hearing) is not compatible with the character of the historic district as proposed. The interwoven projecting bays, while interesting as a design idea, work at odds with the historic district by emphasizing the addition’s large size and horizontality; their proportion of glass to masonry and the scale of what appears as a single super-projection diminishes rather than enhances the historic building."

Stay tuned as further modifications to the design are made and presented to the Dupont Circle Conservancy, the Dupont Circle ANC, and HPRB for their review and approval.

The JBG Companies are also developing a proposed U Street Hotel at the corner of 13th and U Street.

Estrada Named Chairman Emeritus

After serving as Secretary, Vice Chair and Chairman (for two terms), the Dupont Circle ANC named Ramon Estrada its Chairman Emeritus at its January 2009 meeting. The position acknowledges Ramon's many contributions to the Commission during his 6 years of service. He will provide guidance and counsel to the Commission utilizing his wide experience in various matters including liquor licenses, zoning, historic preservation, and use of public space. He will serve as a bridge to various D.C. Goverment officials and staff with whom he has worked productively during his three terms on the Commission. Beginning his fourth term, Ramon is eager to continue the ANC's effectiveness, noting that the Commission is one of the best in the District.

A Great Way to Bring in the New Year

I hope to see you at the first Dupont Circle Citizens Association Membership Meeting of 2009:

"Toasting Your Resolutions" Party, Monday, January 5th, 2009.  Enjoy Champagne, live jazz, + new and longtime neighbors

at the Chastleton Ballroom, 1701 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC.  Bring along a friend.

Season's Greetings

I'd like to wish you all a wonderful holiday season and
New Year filled with hope, promise and good health.

Thank you for your commitment and contribution to our neighborhood
and our city.

PLEASE NOTE: DEC ANC MEETING ON THURS, DEC 11TH

Please note the exception to our typical ANC meeting schedule, as this month our meeting will be held on Thursday, December 11th at the JCC at 16th and Q Street, NW.  Details and agenda are available at   www.dupontcircleanc.net

And, this Saturday (December 13th) and Sunday (December 14th), you can help Ross Elementary School by purchasing  your holiday tree 

at the corner of  17th & R  Streets, NW.  The prices are lower and part of the expense is tax deductible.  They also offer FREE DELIVERY!

Another way to help our community is to join the Dupont Circle Citizens Association (DCCA).  DCCA membership is an amazing value and a great way to meet neighbors and get involved.  Check out their website:  www.dupont-circle.org.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Hello Everyone,

I hope you'll come out for the following upcoming neighborhood meetings/events:

1. TUESDAY DECEMBER 2, 2008 - 

Dupont Circle Citizens Association's December meeting:  An Artful Evening at the Phillips Collection.

                                1600 21st Street, NW

     With a reception following at Mark and Orlando's Restaurant 

     2020 P Street, NW

2. THIS WEEKEND:  Midcity Open Studio

3.  THIS WEEKEND AND NEXT:     

Ross School Holiday Tree Sale 

(lower pricing, half tax deductible, free delivery!) at the corner of 17th and R Streets, NW