While today the Fort Circle Parks are largely unknown and generally neglected, the overarching fact is that they are, indeed, still here. The views from the former hilltop fortifications are spectacular. Equally impressive are the views of them, from nearly every part of the District of Columbia.
Although never completed, starting in the 1930s the federal government acquired substantial amounts of the land for the proposed Fort Circle Drive. Together, the fortifications and linking parklands create a magnificent curtain of green, a natural backdrop that softens the edges of our national capital. They provide respite and recreation for neighborhoods throughout the city. And they contain treasure troves of nature and history that can enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike.
Rock Creek Park
Since its creation in 1890, Rock Creek Park was envisioned as a natural preserve to which Washingtonians could retreat to escape the hustle, bustle, heat, noise, and glare of the downtown, and to appreciate the natural beauty of the Creek, the forest that it supports, and the countless species of plants and animals that have established habitat in the Park.
C100 submits comments in opposition to the proposed hi-intensity lighting for the Rock Creek Golf Course because it violates the Comprehensive Plan prohibition on introducing new light sources except where needed for safety and because alternatives were not addressed.
It was a great surprise to The Committee of 100 to learn recently of the NPS proposal to transfer nearly an acre of land at Fort Lincoln at the corner of Eastern Avenue and Bladensburg Road to the DC government for a private townhouse development. We were not notified of this as part of the scoping process last year, and given no opportunity to express our views or attend the scoping meeting on the proposal.
Testimony of Loretta Neumann on behalf of the Committee of 100 before the National Park Service regarding the Service’s proposed management plan for the Fort Circle Parks.
Testimony of Loretta Neumann on behalf of the Committee of 100 before the National Park Service regarding the Service’s proposed management plan for the Fort Circle Parks.
