Washington's Mall in critical need of maintenance

By Dan K. Thomasson
Scripps Howard News Service
Published: Monday, July 21, 2008 12:09 a.m. MDT
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WASHINGTON — Americans planning to spend some time here this summer — those who can afford the transportation costs — probably will want to stroll a few moments on the Mall, Pierre Charles L'Enfant's effort to preserve a pastoral oasis in the new nation's Capitol. It was to be a well-manicured haven in the grand European style for those trying to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy government.

It, of course, became something else — a place not only of national monuments of every shape and size, but a major site of protests and peace marches and festivals and July 4 celebrations that draw tens of thousands at any one time. Add to that some 20 million tourists a year, and the result is trampled grass and dusty paths and a general atmosphere that is more like one of those dirty roadside stops that dot the countryside from Maine to California. There is even a beat-up little place under a torn canopy and overflowing trash cans where one can eat outdoors in case he or she gets nostalgic for the highway.

But those of you who are appalled by all the cracks and crevices and crummy restrooms in what was supposed to be a welcoming manicured environment, don't despair. The Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials and the famous reflecting pool and the Tidal Basin and a new Indian Museum and a startling view that stretches from the West Side of the Capitol to the Lincoln still make it all worthwhile.

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Also, writing one's congressman, the age-old method of trying to get something done in this country, just might help move along "plans" to spend needed millions on the maintenance of this national jewel. The more of your Senate and House members who are made aware that the condition has become a disgrace, the more likely things will be improved. But you should know that what really is needed is more than just an immediate outlay of a few dollars. It requires a long-range plan that addresses the underlying problems, the most serious of which is overuse of the Mall as a place of festivals and rallies.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which every summer leaves the mall even more threadbare and uninviting, is a case in point. The result of a million happy dusty pilgrims entertained by crafts no longer practiced outside these kinds of tent shows is hard use for this frail environment. It should at least be re-evaluated.

That suggestion is made at the risk of an onslaught of e-mails with allegations ranging from senility to insensitivity to downright stupidity. But the fact is this is a place better served by strolling families and loving couples as they make their way along what is one of the world's most inviting thoroughfares of museums and monuments and beautiful resting spots. It is a spot where all Americans can come with pride, and it should be treated with love and care.

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Recent comments

I've had similar thoughts when I visit DC, but I have a little...

2 bits | July 21, 2008 at 12:41 p.m.

I was just there this past weekend. I had exactly the same thoughts...

Voyager | July 21, 2008 at 11:19 a.m.

It's true, the Mall is in a sad state of disrepair. Washington...

Former DCer | July 21, 2008 at 9:14 a.m.