Temple Witness Stumbles on Meaning of ‘Retain and Enhance’

The neighborhood campaign to save the open space behind the Masonic Temple at 16th and S Streets, NW, was heard by the Mayor’s Agent for Historic Preservation Friday. The Masons, a nonprofit organization, seek to subdivide the historically landmarked lot to allow for an over-sized, 55 foot revenue-producing luxury apartment building. Responding to the large influx of families with young children, neighbors oppose the subdivision and the luxury project that would replace the open space.

The community has experienced the arrival of a new demographic in the last ten years as families with children have raised a need for more parks. The site is the last open green space in an area the city has deemed short of parks for the quality of life.

This is the third hearing on the subdivision, but the Mayor’s Agent hearing is different in that it allows cross examination of witnesses. Thus, although the Masons’ expert witness said the subdivision and development should be allowed, under cross examination, she seemed unfamiliar with the regulatory standard of ‘retain and enhance’ which must be applied before subdivision can be allowed. She could not show how a five-story building, which would block the rear view of the Temple, would 'enhance’ the magnificent Temple designed by renowned architect John Russell Pope.

Dupont East Civic Action Association (DECAA) was joined by the Dupont Circle Citizens Association and individual neighbors Michael Hays, Aydin Tozeren, William Murray, Diane Quinn and ANC Commissioner Ed Hanlon (2B09), all of whom opposed the subdivision. Tozeren added photos to the legal arguments, impressive for their rear views of the Temple which will be lost to the public forever if the development proceeds – the very photos the Masons themselves use to call visitors to the city.

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