Govt agency questions Smithsonian over removal of garden, lack of details in changes

Washington

THE Smithsonian Institution's plan to redevelop the area around its iconic administration building, known as the Castle, by replacing its formal garden and relocating three entrance pavilions received mixed reaction from the federal agency that must eventually approve it.

The US$2 billion plan is intended to increase the area's visibility from the National Mall, add such visitor amenities as restrooms and food service, and improve its accessibility and circulation.

In their first comments on the plan, members of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) praised its attempt to better connect the buildings and gardens, but they questioned the demolishing of the Enid A Haupt Garden…