Save the C&O Canal from intrusive development!
DEFENDERS OF POTOMAC RIVER PARKLAND
A MASSIVE BUILDING: The scale of GU's proposed boathouse and its dock are evident in the simulation at right. Like the simulation above it, this image is cropped from the April 2006 draft Environmental Assessment in which NPS listed the project shown as the "preferred alternative."
THREATENED TRAIL
Left: The Capital Crescent Trail today, with C&O Canal embankment at right. Right: NPS simulation of the area with the "preferred alternative" accomplished.
MAPS: The map at right shows the location and approximate size of GU's proposed site (click on the image for a larger version).The map below is cropped from a handout distributed by NPS in a July 2008 public meeting, here annotated to make clear that the "EA site" is the site proposed by GU and shown in the photos above.
ALTERNATIVE SITES
At right is a detail from the map above, showing three possible boathouse sites on which NPS appeared to be focusing in July 2008: GU's proposed site within the C&O Canal National Hisorical Park (which had been NPS' "preferred alternative" in the 2006 draft Environmental Assessment); the "Dempsey site," also within the C&OCNHP; and a 34th Street site in Georgetown.
The 34th Street location is a practical option, with better street access and little intrusion on historical and environmental assets. Earlier in the Environmental Impact Statement process, NPS was also considering several other alternatives beyond the C&O Canal National Historiical Park, including sites in the area of Jack's Boathouse and improvements to Thompson's Boat Center. Other options for additional boating facilities, either academic or public, exist along the Potomac, and all feasible sites should be carefully evaluated.
The images below depict a new boathouse as it might appear located in Georgetown downstream from the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Key Bridge. The design is by Frank Morgan and the photo montage is by Dave Winer. Presentation of this alternative does not necessarily imply that any particular site is endorsed by any individual or group associated with this web site.
The images below depict a new boathouse as it might appear located in Georgetown downstream from the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Key Bridge. The design is by Frank Morgan and the photo montage is by Dave Winer. Presentation of this alternative does not necessarily imply that any particular site is endorsed by any individual or group associated with this web site.
Rendering
(click on image for a full size view)
(click on image for a full size view)
Elevation
(click on image for a full size view)
(click on image for a full size view)
Plan View
(click on image for a full size view)
(click on image for a full size view)
Other locations: In addition to sites in Georgetown, rowing facilities might possibly be built or enlarged along the Anacostia River or on the Virginia side of the Potomac.
Anacostia River
Anacostia Community Boathouse
Virginia
Arlington County and Vicinity Rowing Facility
Anacostia River
Anacostia Community Boathouse
Virginia
Arlington County and Vicinity Rowing Facility
PARKLAND VS. INTRUSIVE DEVELOPMENT: The wooded shore of the C&O Canal National Historical Park upriver from the historic Washington Canoe Club is shown in the top photo at left. The second photo at left is a simulation of the scene if Georgetown University's boathouse proposal prevails.
BOATHOUSE ZONE: The Non-Motorized Boathouse Zone Feasibility Study has opened a new phase of the Georgetown boathouse issue. CLICK HERE to view the full NPS zone map and information about how the study's scenarios would affect each area.
IMAGES BELOW show earlier proposals for an intrusive private boathouse within the C&O Canal NHP and alternatives to that plan.