Statement from Carol Quillen in Response to Today's CFA Meeting
In response to today's US Commission of Fine Arts meeting, National Trust President and CEO Carol Quillen has released the following statement:
"We were puzzled this morning when the US Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) approved the concept plans for the proposed White House ballroom, and then, in a second vote—without any advance public notice—also approved the final plans, which had neither been presented nor reviewed.
In doing so, CFA bypassed its obligation to provide serious design review and consider the views of the American people, including the over 99% of public comments (out of 2,000 submissions) that expressed opposition to the current design and offered valuable suggestions on how it might be improved.
To be clear, the National Trust has always acknowledged the utility of a larger White House meeting space to replace outdoor tents. However, we remain deeply concerned that the size, location, and massing of this proposal will overwhelm the carefully balanced classical design of the White House, a symbol of our democratic republic.
As we look towards the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) meeting on March 5th, we urge NCPC to follow and respect the spirit of the review process, to consider public comments, and to preserve the historic integrity and symbolism of the People’s House for future generations.”
About the National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a
privately-funded nonprofit organization dedicated
to helping communities maintain and enhance the
power of historic places. Chartered by Congress in
1949 and supported by partners, friends, and
champions nationwide, we help preserve the places
and stories that make communities unique. Through
the stewardship and revitalization of historic
sites, we help communities foster economic growth,
create healthier environments, and build a
stronger, shared sense of civic duty and belonging.
SavingPlaces.org