The editorial, Appeal to absurdity, dismayed and disappointed us, mostly because it evidenced incomplete information and a hasty conclusion that the Foggy Bottom community is ridiculous and our appeal spurious. For instance, contrary to the implication that the appeal was filed even though construction . is already underway, the appeal was filed in October 1999, six months before construction began.
The environmental problems are central to the issue and come not from endangered species but from the site’s air quality which the city has rated at barely under the tipping point.
And we disagree with the editorial board’s position that replacing the building and moving it across the street will just shift traffic and other factors one block. How about the very large complex, of unknown uses, which will replace the current hospital, doubling the pollution? And how about 23rd Street traffic associated with other, nearby buildings being built, such as the Ritz Carlton, Health and Wellness Center, none of which were factored into the environmental finding?
And what about the 60-foot loading dock 60 short steps from the nearest residence? That is a substantial threat to the neighbors and passersby, with frequent large, medium and small trucks carrying flammables, bio-hazardous and other trash, blocking a narrow, heavily used street with backup alarms and dock doors going up and down all day. The current loading dock is on a wider and less-used street, and we would encourage the editorial board to watch for half a day the comings and goings at the current loading dock before dismissing the community’s concerns as ill-considered.
Also, there is more than considerable doubt that GW and Universal Health Services can control truck delivery at all times, ensure pedestrian safety and keep their commercial vehicles off residential streets. Our experience in these matters leads us to believe that enforcement of promises to do so, however well-intentioned, is a fantasy.
The Foggy Bottom Association has always recognized the need for an updated facility, which will benefit all D.C. residents. It has been the location and exit points that we find intrusive. And, yes, we certainly do have the right to appeal (Board of Zoning Adjustment) decisions if we disagree with its findings, which is what we have done. It is not a ridiculous attempt to prevent construction of a much-needed public project. It is the result of our obligation to tell the BZA and the city that their decisions are hurting this fragile, desirable and contributing residential neighborhood.
-Ellie Becker is vice president and former president of the FBA. Doug Abbey is an FBA Executive Board member.