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NCPC signs off on comments for Pentagon Metro pedestrian access control point; staff urges native plantings and WMATA coordination
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Summary
NCPC approved staff comments on concept plans for a Pentagon pedestrian access control point, urging continued WMATA coordination, exploration of materials compatible with the historic Pentagon, and consideration of native, pollinator‑friendly plantings and stronger sustainability (LEED) targets.
The National Capital Planning Commission on March 7 approved comments on concept plans for a proposed pedestrian access control point (PACP) at the Pentagon Metro entrance, following a staff presentation and extended commissioner discussion about massing, materials, pedestrian circulation and landscape choices.
Department of Defense Washington Headquarters Services presented two design options for an 18,000‑square‑foot PACP addition adjacent to the existing Metro Entrance Facility (MEF). Staff recommended guidance on site appropriateness, coordination with WMATA to minimize construction impacts to transit users, consideration of native plantings (including common milkweed where appropriate), sustainable stormwater measures, and review of building materials to ensure compatibility with the historic Pentagon facade.
Ms. Free, the project presenter, described both options and noted tradeoffs: Option 1 offered a stronger sense of arrival and higher interior ceilings but extended the MEF volume; Option 2 presented a more proportional exterior relationship to the Pentagon but a less prominent interior experience. "Staff supports the general location and footprint of the proposed PACP as it allows clear pedestrian access and circulation while accommodating program requirements," Ms. Free said.
Commissioners debated the merits of the two options. Commissioner McMahon said he favored Option 1's grander interior and suggested marrying the best elements of both alternatives. Other commissioners emphasized material choices (stone, copper, opaque glass) over channel glass or metal mesh that "could appear dated," and encouraged the applicant to explore LEED Gold feasibility while at minimum achieving LEED Silver.
Vice Chair Hewlett moved to approve the staff's comments for incorporation into the record; Commissioner Wright seconded and the motion carried on roll call. Staff and commissioners recorded guidance to continue coordination with WMATA on construction phasing, to refine massing and facade composition to emphasize the entry, and to prioritize native, pollinator‑friendly plant materials in landscape design and stormwater features.
NCPC approval was for comments at concept review; the design team will return with a preferred alternative at preliminary submission incorporating the commission's and staff's direction.
