TJ.S.

COMMISSION OF FINE ARTS

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31 March 20l 7

Dear Mr. Wiedefeld:

This letter is to express concern with you regarding the work currently being undertaken to paint
over the majestic cast-concrete coffered vaults and end walls of the Union Station Metrorail
structure with white paint. We are concerned that the work, however well-intentioned, creates a
substantial change to the architectural character of this exemplary transit system, in a station that
serves as a gateway into the capital for millions of residents, commuters, and tourists each year.

The Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) has long been involved in the design, construction, and
stewardship of the Metrorail system since its conceptualizalion in the 1960s. Designed by
architect Hany Weese and lighting designer William Larn-with significant input frorn the
Commission's members-the Metrorail system is now considered a masterpiece of modern design
and civic infrastructure. The stations of the Metrorail s)stem comprise some of the most important
civic spaces in Washington, and their unified, dignified appearance uses a thoughtful combination
of durable materials designed to last, with proper maintenance.

WMATA has been, on the whole, a responsible steward of these important civic spaces, both in
the use of appropriate materials when fixing existing stations and its interpretations of the system's
strong aesthetic when designing new stations. However, the sudden painting of the monumental
concrete vaults with layers of white paint is not an instance of routine maintenance, but rather a
alteration to an essential characteristic of this important civic space. We understand that a lighting
study has been underlaken for the systern's vaulted stations, but the CFA has not been presented
with the results of that study, nor why such drastic action is r,varranted. We are also concerned that
the painting is a short-term solution that will create many maintenance problems in the long term.

The normal course of undertaking significant alterations to Metro stations in Washington, D.C.,
involves a public review process involving the CFA, the D.C. Historic Preservation Office, and
other government, advocacy, and community groups. Unforlunately, such a process has not
been followed in this case, and we request that the work be suspended in order to assess its
technical rationale. its aesthetic impact. and its long-term effect on the station.

We look forward to working with you and the WMATA stafFas soon as possible to address
this important issue.

Thomas Luebke, FAIA

Secretary

Mr. Paul Wiedefeld

General Manager and CEO
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
600 Fifth Street, NW
Washington DC 20001