Neighborhood Notes - Foxhall: 11 April 2001
The appointed "Mayoral Residence Commission" was unanimous in
supporting the Eugene B. Casey Foundation gift to develop 1801 Foxhall Road, but
their report wondered about several options in order to frame a discussion:
would it be a basic economy residence just big enough
for the mayor and family; or larger with guest space but no space for public
activity, or grander with public entertainment, reception and exhibition space?
Mrs. Casey's letter of February 26, 2001 answers the size and purpose
question with: "It should be a beautiful, large, well-planned
house with official entertainment areas, comfortable private family quarters,
and guest rooms." No mention is made of exhibition space, which might
put to rest concerns about bus-loads of school kids touring this property every
day. In fact, her letter goes on to state: "It seems fitting for the
Mayor of Washington to have his home situated in the immediate neighborhood of
the French, German, Belgian and Spanish" ambassador's homes.
The letter does not specify if "Casey Mansion Foundation" will have
an operational role beyond maintenance. But the letter gives us clues to her
vision: "Mayors of D.C. have been at a distinct disadvantage by virtue
of not having an official residence where local, national and international
leaders can be received. The business of government is conducted on many levels
not the least of which is social. Governments around the world learned that
generations ago, which explains why so many embassies have beautiful facilities
designed to serve such purposes".
The GU Medical Center-sponsored study on improving traffic conditions is
looking at options to resolve A.M. gridlock between Entrance #1 and Entrance #4
(37th St to the French Embassy). A draft study report is due by end of June,
with the whole summer for community review and input.
© Bob Andrew, Foxhall
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