Thursday, May 8, 2008
Trust Launches Campaign To Restore National Mall
WRC-TV (NBC)

WASHINGTON - More than $500 million is needed to restore the National Mall, according to a group that is launching a campaign to fix up "America's Front Yard." Business and community leaders held a benefit luncheon on Thursday to launch the Trust for the National Mall, a private-public campaign to raise $500 million for the Mall.

"This is the icon of freedom for our children, our grandchildren, for the entire world," said John "Chip" Akridge, who founded the trust. "This is where democracy is showcased, and this is something that all Americans are, or should be, proud of."

The trust plans to make repairs and build restrooms, food service facilities and other amenities to improve the Mall experience.

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