D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 10, r. 10-A814
The District's formal open space networks are complemented by several smaller open space systems. These networks may be lesser known due to fragmented ownership and multiple functions, but they are no less important-particularly to the communities they serve. 814.1
A unique open space network comprised primarily of major federal facilities, cemeteries, and institutional uses is located just north of the city's geographic center, in an area otherwise lacking in public parkland. The network includes McMillan Reservoir, the Armed Forces Retirement Home, Rock Creek Church Cemetery, National Cemetery, and Glenwood, Prospect Hill, and St. Mary's Cemeteries. This area was already established as a major recreational ground for Washington in the 19th century. Its role as such was confirmed by the 1901 McMillan Plan, which recognized the dual function of these lands as functional facilities and passive open spaces. While public access to many of these properties is restricted today, their presence as an open space corridor is plainly visible on aerial photos of the city. 814.2
The Fort Circle Trail, which runs from Fort Dupont to Watts Branch, is slated to be upgraded
Several sites in the McMillan to Fort Totten open space network are currently under consideration for development. As detailed plans are developed for these sites, the District must take an active role in conserving the connected open space network as an historic, ecological, aesthetic, and recreational resource. 814.3
Continued enhancement and preservation of open space networks in other parts of the city is also called for. These networks include the forested greenbelt along Oxon Run, the woodlands and wetlands around Oxon Cove (extending south into Maryland), and the wooded areas extending from Westmoreland Circle to the Potomac River (including Dalecarlia Reservoir). 814.4
Policy PROS-3.3.1: North-Central Open Space Network
Protect and enhance the historic open space network extending from McMillan Reservoir to Fort Totten. As future land use changes in this area take place, an integrated system of permanent open spaces and improved parks should be maintained or created. 814.5
Policy PROS-3.3.2: Other Open Space Networks
Recognize the recreational, scenic, environmental, and historic value of other interconnected or linear open spaces in the city, including Oxon Run, Oxon Cove, and the Dalecarlia Reservoir area. 814.6
Policy PROS-3.3.3: Small Park and Mini-Park Cluster Improvements
Prioritize improvements of small park and mini-park clusters in areas with limited access to parks and open space and a growing population. Apply common themes, such as sustainability, place-making, or connectivity to plan, enhance, and maintain the small parks as a system.
Action PROS-3.3.A: Creating "Washington Central Park"
Work with the federal government, NCRC, and institutional and open space landowners to create a linear system of parks and open space extending from Bryant Street on the south to Fort Totten on the north. This system should be created from existing large publicly-owned and institutional tracts, as well as adjacent triangle parks, cemeteries, and rights-of-way. 814.7
See the Rock Creek East and Mid-City Area Elements for additional information on this network.
Action PROS-3.3.B: Small Parks Database
Develop a shared database of small parks, as defined by the Capital Space Plan, to inform coordination efforts between agencies and with the public, including data on ownership, size, location, function, level of use, historic or cultural value, commemorative elements, programs, and condition. Assess existing agency jurisdiction for certain small parks to ensure that each parcel is managed effectively to meet District and/or federal objectives, and clarify responsibilities of the managing agencies.
The provisions of Title 10, Part A of the DCMR accessible through this web interface are codification of the District Elements of the Comprehensive Plan for the National Capital. As such, they do not represent the organic provisions adopted by the Council of the District of Columbia. The official version of the District Elements only appears as a hard copy volume of Title 10, Part A published pursuant to section 9 a of the District of Columbia Comprehensive Plan Act of 1994, effective April 10, 1984 (D.C. Law 5-76; D.C. Official Code § 1 -301.66)) . In the event of any inconsistency between the provisions accessible through this site and the provisions contained in the published version of Title 10, Part A, the provisions contained in the published version govern. A copy of the published District Elements is available www.planning.dc.gov.
D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 10, r. 10-A814