This post was written by Hatchet staff writer Frankie Kane.
The D.C. Zoning Commission held off on a decision for the GW Museum at a hearing Thursday, asking for further details on traffic surrounding the site.
After the University made its case for the $22 million project that will weave a partnership with the cross-town Textile Museum and house historical city artifacts, the commission delayed taking action on the museum, requesting more information on GW’s plans for 21st and G streets.
The project will transform the University Police Department’s headquarters at the Woodhull House into a four-story home for art from around the world and District but potentially draw more traffic to the area. GW is slated to return to the city agency May 14 and offer details on how it plans to unload and load buses on G Street and regulate traffic along 21st Street.
The Foggy Bottom and West End Advisory Neighborhood Commission, the area’s top advocacy group, drafted a letter to the zoning body March 22, outlining concerns related to traffic and pedestrian safety problems that might arise near the site. But the group took no formal position of support or opposition to the project.
“This ANC is never afraid to take a position,” Zoning commission chairman Anthony Hood noted.
The zoning commission also hopes to see the D.C. Fire Department’s stance on how loading and unloading of buses would affect emergency vehicles near the site, after the West End Citizens Association – another neighborhood group – submitted a statement citing its traffic safety worries.
Following zoning approval for the project, the museum will need the go-ahead from the National Capital Planning Commission.
The new building – constructed out of limestone similar to Lisner Hall and the Hall of Government – will offer a main entrance on 21st Street and a second entry on G Street. It will also feature a gift shop.
