NCPC approves Pentagon Metro entrance access control point design to improve screening and circulation

The commission approved preliminary and final site and building plans for a pedestrian access control point at the Pentagon metro entrance, a project submitted by Washington Headquarters Services to increase employee screening capacity and improve pedestrian circulation near the Pentagon Transit Center.

Staff described the proposal as an approximately 18,000‑square‑foot addition that replaces existing covered walkways, adds a double‑height, column‑free screening hall to preserve sight lines for security officers, and creates an open landscape plaza that improves arrival experience. Channel glass was selected as the preferred facade material to meet blast resistance, light quality and thermal requirements after other glazing options were found not to meet blast criteria, staff said.

Staff recommended approval while noting the design’s attention to proportion, materiality and sustainability; the roof structure is designed for future solar panels and the project targets LEED Silver under Department of Defense guidance. Commissioners generally supported the refinements, citing improved natural light and coherence with the Pentagon’s datum lines. Vice Chair Hewlett moved approval; Commissioner Argo seconded. Roll call recorded 'yes' votes and the chair announced the motion passed, with Commissioners Davis and Hassett again recording abstentions.

Next steps: NCPC will monitor coordination with WMATA for engineering and station operations during construction and the applicant will continue to refine facade and material details as the project advances toward delivery.