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Condition : The Lake View Outlook Sector is defined by topography and scenic intent. The high area was intended for scenic enjoyment affording main views over the Lake and secondary views to other areas of the surrounding park landscape. The Lake View Outlook was accessed by two symmetrical paths and terminated in a round open area at the front edge of the hill. The front slopes of the hill were planted informally with about sixteen trees, creating a open grove that allowed views through. Over forty mature trees are now growing on these front slopes. They close in the formerly open views of the Lake. The Lake View Outlook was not designed with a way for the person enjoying scenic views to move down to the Lake without doubling back to a path on the west edge, about 200 feet from the outlook. This causes a dead-end situation that, coupled with the loss of view, acts as a strong deterrent to the use of this park feature. Some park users traverse the steep slope to reach the lakeside paths, causing significant soil erosion.

Objectives : Reinstate scenic value. Integrate more fully with surrounding park. Bring back use.

Recommendations : Selectively prune and remove trees from Lake View Outlook to achieve views of Lake from several vantage points. Tree removals should be a part of a vegetation management approach to this and other outlooks. Trees should be removed when in decline. New plantings of historically appropriate trees should be planned with the retention of views in mind. Construct two flights of stairs at each side of the Outlook. Install appropriate fence around front of outlook for safety and to inhibit movement down the slope. Install benches for enjoyment of the view.

Condition : The Children’s Playground, Refectory and Carriage Concourse Sector functioned as a visitor service area. It was defined by topography, circulation elements, destinations and plantings. A complex arrangements of walks, now lost, segmented the Children’s Playground. While this sector is distinct and separate, visual contact with the Meadows was an important connection. Views from the Refectory and center knoll of the Children’s Playground were all open to the Meadows, offering an expansive, pastoral view.

Objectives : Reinstate lost features, provide visitor services.

Recommendations : Consider reconstruction of the Refectory, or development of a building of similar scale, detail and texture utilizing historic documentation. Potential uses for the building might include an Urban Park Ranger Center, a base for Interpretive and Educational programs, a volunteer coordination Center, or a Washington Park Conservancy office. Reconstruct historic walk pattern. Relocate the play area to the original playground site indicated by “P” on Exhibit 7. Cluster equipment by age group so that play with peers is encouraged. Potential groupings are; 1 to 4 with supervision, 5 to 8, 9 to 12, 13 and over. Utilize durable, attractive equipment with natural wood members of painted to blend into park setting in green or brown tones. Provide play equipment that is not visually obtrusive.

Condition : The two meadows were intended to be distinct but visually connected and continuous. They were open, pastoral landscapes. The broad lawns with occasional mature shade trees were carefully designed to appear natural. The expanse of open, peaceful landscape was intended to be a strong