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Significant alterations to the integrity of park sectors and buffers over time are portrayed on Park Sectors: Exhibit 3. Two historic destinations remain, nine former destinations have been lost, and two new destinations created. Four historic, scenic views remain while six have been compromised by changes in the view from and of the park. Most of the sector edges have been compromised over time. In a physical sense, this means that the boundaries between sectors have lost definition. From a visual perspective, the distinction between formerly discrete park areas has been diluted resulting in a loss of a sense of distinct spaces. The location and extent of the historic buffer has been significantly reduced. These alterations have occurred because of:

compromised edge definitions or established new visual barriers;

vehicular experience of the park;

or degradation of remaining features that compromise intended uses;

that have altered visual perception of the park, especially in the area of the Lake.

The level of differentiation achieved during the period of historic significance (1873-1908) is diffused in the park as it exists today. The definition of strong features, such as the formal, linear Mall, the Moses Fountain Site and the Lake, is retained in a diluted form. Other areas have lost their original spatial relationships. One good example is the Meadows, Croquet Ground and Refectory/Children’s Playground sectors that, due primarily to vegetation changes and loss of structures, have become one mass, losing their individual qualities.

It is also obvious that the buffer edge is a limited remnant of its former condition. Less than one quarter of the park edge formerly in buffer functions as a buffer today.

Internal sector disruption, by invasive or inappropriate vegetation in three locations, by traffic and parking in two locations and by playground equipment in the large meadow is also indiôated. In each case, these elements alter the spatial relationships and perceptions of the particular area.

A general recommendation for sectors and buffers is to reinstate the distinct, historic sectors of Washington Park that were unique to this landscape. These sectors are a critical component of the historic integrity of the park, and simultaneously permit diverse, conflict-free park use and higher quality scenic experiences. The reinstatement of both park sectors and buffer edges is a primary objective of the Preservation Proposal that will aid in achieving several goals.

Eleven park sectors and seven segments of the buffer edges are evident on the 1891 Egerton Plan. These divisions form the basis for the park sector discussion. Each sector and buffer edge is described below, beginning with the Lake and proceeding, clockwise through the park. The historic importance and function of each sector is addressed first. Then the existing condition is described. These