Sunday, May 25, 2008
Mall Needs $500 Million, Panel Is Told
The Washington Post

[Excerpt]

The Mall is a national "disgrace," an overused, neglected and decrepit urban park in need of a total makeover that could cost $500 million, according to testimony at a congressional hearing.

The legendary venue, which serves as civic stage and the nation's front yard, lacks proper restrooms, shade and places to eat, those speaking at the hearing said. Its lakes and pools are dirty. Its grass is often trampled to dirt. And its walkways are cracked, patched, uneven and sometimes flooded at high tide.

John E. "Chip" Akridge, chairman of the Trust for the National Mall, testified that although the Park Service has done its best with limited resources, the Mall has $350 million in deferred maintenance.

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