St. Elizabeths East Campus Water Tower Mitigation

Approved in 2014, the project was subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, requiring mitigation measures to address potential adverse effects to the historic setting. McKissack helped guide a complex entitlement and advisory process, working collaboratively with DC Water, the State Historic Preservation Officer, and other vested stakeholders to ensure compliance while advancing project goals. To determine the final mitigation approach, DC Water implemented a competitive, community-informed selection process shaped by public engagement and stakeholder input. The resulting mitigation concept extended beyond traditional requirements to deliver meaningful public amenities, including a public plaza, interactive information wall, water awareness center, water feature, enhanced landscaping and community orchard, and expanded public parking. Through this integrated approach, McKissack helped transform essential infrastructure into a community asset that balances historic preservation, public education, and placemaking—adding lasting value to the St. Elizabeths East campus and surrounding neighborhood.