NCPC approves preliminary plans for DC Correctional Treatment Facility annex, asks for more programmatic detail

The National Capital Planning Commission on April 3 approved preliminary site and building plans for a Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF) Annex on Massachusetts Avenue SE (Hill East), while asking applicants to clarify interior programmatic details, contextual views and certain facade elements.

Stephanie Free (District Department of General Services) presented the proposal, which includes two interconnected buildings: Building 1 (88 feet) with public lobby, medical clinic, intake and program space, and three upper floors for resident housing; and Building 2 (46 feet) focusing on housing and program support. Staff recommended approval at the preliminary stage with comments to be addressed before final review. The applicant plans phased construction to minimize disruption, with construction anticipated to begin in fiscal 2027, Building 1 complete in FY2030 and Building 2 in FY2034.

DC Department of Corrections deputy director Michelle Wilson responded to questions about interior programming and said Building 1’s added floors were intended to move people from the aging Central Detention Facility (CDF) into improved housing and program space early in the project phasing. Wilson invited further engagement with staff on operational needs.

Former nurse and Ward 7 resident Samaya Lane testified from direct experience that interior layouts and staff workspaces (nursing stations) need deliberate design attention; she urged the commission to consider facilities that better support women and mother–newborn bonding opportunities. Commissioners thanked her and department representatives offered follow-up contacts.

Commission discussion focused on the massing and façade: several commissioners praised efforts to create a less fortress‑like appearance and to integrate tiered planters and streetscape improvements but requested more long‑view renderings showing the building in context, greater clarity on the purpose and placement of the façade’s horizontal ‘‘leaves,’’ and substitution of invasive plant species with regional natives. Commissioners also debated whether the shorter Building 2 should have been designed with additional height for future flexibility.

Vice Chair Hewlett moved approval of the preliminary plans with staff recommendations; Commissioner Argo seconded. The motion passed by roll call.

Next steps: staff requested additional renderings showing longer views along Massachusetts Avenue, a written description of site-control features as they affect the streetscape, and replacement of invasive plant species with regionally native alternatives prior to final review. The Department of Corrections and DGS representatives offered to engage with community and practitioners to refine interior program details.