Plan to make Historic Eastern Market part of your fourth of July celebrations!  Historic Eastern Market will be open; Saturday, July 4^th - 7 am to 3 pm and Sunday, July 5^th - 9 am to 5 pm.

The merchants are back in the restored Historic South Hall, stocked and ready to supply you with the finest seafood, meat, poultry, produce, cheese and baked goods for your family’s festivities.   Eastern Market’s farmers line has recently harvested fresh produce from around the local region and while at the market enjoy blueberry buckwheat pancakes or North Carolina style barbeque at Eastern Market’s very own Market Lunch.  

Around the Eastern Market square you will also discover a wide selection of handmade pottery, jewelry, ceramics, crafts, furniture and Flea Market finds.  For market enthusiasts, many of the local artists have completed their rendition of the newly restored Eastern Market.

We look forward to seeing you at The Market!

The District will reopen the historic Eastern Market at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday June 26 followed by a community celebration on Saturday June 27. 

The two events will mark the completion of the market’s renovation and recovery from fire damage caused in April 2007.

Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee

Minutes

Old Naval Hospital

April 25, 2009

Present: Sharon Ambrose (for Barbara Eck), Chuck Burger, Monte Edwards, Larry Gallo, Bill Glasgow, Donna Scheeder (arrived about 7:30 PM), Tom Kuchenberg, Angie Brunson, Richard Layman, Lisa Brooks (for Dan Tangherlini).

The meeting was convened at 7:05 PM by Vice Chair Burger.

1.      Agenda

Motion: Mr. Kuchenberg moved/ Mr. Burger seconded a motion to approve the agenda.  It passed unanimously.

 2.    Minutes

Motion:  Mr. Burger moved/Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to approve both the February and March minutes. The motion passed without objection.

 3.    Executive Committee

Signage Committee

Mr. Burger reported that the Sign Tigers, the Signage Committee, is comprised of representatives from CHAMPS, EMCAC, Barracks Row, the CHBID, and ANC 6B, as well as local citizens The Committee’s mission is to direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic first to Historic Capitol Hill, and then to discrete locations in the neighborhood.

He said the committee is working with extreme urgency to get reasonably accurate vehicular and pedestrian signage in place for the reopening.  At a minimum they are looking to have a map in place at the top of the Metro escalator so that the crowds coming to the opening will be able to find the Market because neither the Market or Barracks Row is visible from the Metro Plaza..  DDOT has a program to provide these maps at Metro stops which direct people to local attractions. 

The Committee continues to work on a more comprehensive plan; it recommends that the Metro signs be placed at all of the Capitol Hill Metro stops immediately.  Mr. Burger said that the Executive Committee recommends that EMCAC support the initiative with a letter to DDOT, the Councilmember and the Mayor’s Office asking to give these signs the highest priority in their signage program.

Resignation of Mike Berman from Tenant’s Council

Mr. Burger announced that Mike Berman has resigned from the Tenant’s Council.  Motion:  Mr. Burger moved/Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to send a resolution of appreciation to Mr. Berman, thanking him for his work on behalf of EMCAC.  The motion passed unanimously.

Celebration Planning Update

Mr.  Gallo said that he hasn’t heard anything about the return celebration since the first meeting a month ago, and there is a lot of interest from the Market vendors in participating in the event.  He said that ground is being lost.  EMCAC should be looking for professional help for the benefit of the Market and the community.  There should be, he said, a definitive public relations and promotion planner.

Mr. Burger said that he concurs with that, and he has talked to someone who he will bring to the Executive Committee, who is a professional event planner—he did the Mayor’s inaugural events.  Mr. Jarboe said that someone is needed who can do a whole campaign, not just an event.  Ms. Ambrose said that there was also discussion of branding the Market, and someone is needed who can give EMCAC ideas on branding.  She said the question of affordability has to be taken into account.

Mr. Gallo said it is important for the Market Manager and OPM to move it forward.  Mr. Layman said that the RFP is not a plan, and there is no plan for the Market.  HE said that haste makes waste and that he would rather see something that takes time, and there should be a six-month plan.  Mike Bowers suggested that the opening should be done in a number of stages.  The opening of the South Hall is only part of the package, he said, and the arts in the North Hall and the pottery in the basement are just as important.  Mr. Kuchenberg said he wished to second that the last two speakers said.  People will be back in town in September and there will be most bang for the buck in late September or early October.  Mr. Gallo added that it would provide the best and greatest opportunity, which can’t be missed.  Mr. Burger said that a goal is what’s needed, a phased goal, with things done at certain times.  Mr. Gallo added that there are tremendous resources available in the Market people.  Mr. Burger said that there is a great flock, and it needs a good shepherd.  He said that time is of the essence and it should be discussed immediately, and coordinated with OPM.

 4.    Office of Property Management

·         Barry Margeson introduced Jennifer Eubank who is now the interim Assistant Market Manager.

·         He reported that there have been internal discussions about the opening.

·         He said the Enterprise Fund moneys are still encumbered, and so far OPM is laying out the money for the expenses of operating the Market.  They will begin using the Fund soon.

·         He reported that the Natatorium Plaza activities are going well.  He said there have been some issues with trash, which is now being picked up three times a day.  He said there is a lot of business on the Plaza.

·         On security, he said there had been two car thefts of exhibitor cars while he was away.  He reported that MPD had come to the market to speak with the merchants.

·         He said he had started using walkie talkies on Saturday, but they didn’t work too well and he was getting new ones.  Mr. Bowers suggested a stationary walkie talkie that vendors could access, and Mr. Margeson said it was great idea.

·         Mr. Kuchenberg raised the issue of security when the new equipment is installed and Mr. Margeson responded that he plans to have security up and running when the Market is being moved, and if there’s a glitch, MPD will fill in. 

·         He said that the Market parking signage should be corrected by that weekend, and that he had passed out 3500 postcards with maps of the Market area.

·         He said he had relocated the place for payment of vendor rents, which is now inside the East Hall in the broom closet between Angie’s stand and Market Poultry.

·         Mr. Gallo said that because the Market has the greatest concentration of people on the Hill, there should be an increase of cops on regular patrol.  Mr. Jarboe said that while it was a good idea, police should not be pulled away from their regular beat.  Ms. Ambrose suggested that because Diane Groomes is in charge of patrols, there should be a meeting with her and OPM to work something out.  Ms. Scheeder said that the merchants and vendors should have the chance to sit down with the police as well.  Mr. Burger added that in any strategy, the bricks and mortar stores should be included.

·         Mr. Gallo raised the issue of finances.  He said that the Enterprise Fund is now available and some of it is going to reimburse expenses.  The reason given for the failure of the RFP is that not enough was known about the Market’s finances.  We need more information about the Market’s finances.  Ms. Brunson added that EMCAC needs to know how much is in the Enterprise Fund.  Ms. Scheeder pointed out that the Enterprise Fund has changed and that’s it’s now being used to accept income from the vendor rents, and to cover the Market’s expenses.  Mr. Bowers asked whether there is a budget for the Grand Opening, and Mr. Gallo asked about the schedule for the opening and Ms. Scheeder responded that they should know in the middle of May, and that it would be done on schedule, including the move back, even if they had to use extra workers.

 5.    Capital Improvements Committee

Bricks

Mr. Edwards reported that the surplus bricks that were removed from Market sidewalks (over 10,000) had been given to Congressional Cemetery for a patio and for improvement of the paths.

Streetscape

Mr. Edwards reported that DDOT does not have the expertise to widen the gate at the Hine parking lot, and they don’t know where to go for bids.  Ms. Ambrose suggested that Alan Lew, the DCPS facilities manager, be tasked with resolving the problem. 

He reported that there  will be three,  20 foot high  light standards on the north plaza that will take up spaces that were formerly tree boxes.Barry Margeson, DDOT, Urban Forestry  and OPM are working on the placement of the trees displaced by the light standards.  DDOT requires that every tree that has been removed has to be replaced, and there are currently no recommendations as to where they should be placed.  The DDOT project manager has asked for a report from Urban Forestry that would recommend tree locations, tree species and tree protection, and it’s now a bottleneck because they can’t move forward with paving the north plaza.  He said he is not willing to give up having a leafy canopy over the North Plaza.  Mr. Kuchenberg suggested asking the artists for suggestions.  Mr. Layman said that it doesn’t make sense to have obstructions on the North Plaza.  The Natatorium Plaza is underutilized and the trees aren’t a problem.  Mr. Bowers asked whether the trees can be replaced anywhere on the Eastern Market square. 

Ann Richards, of The Forecast, said that the parking lot is full, but there’s no signage, and it does not make sense  to have a lot without signage.  Mr. Edwards responded that the reason there’s no signage is that DDOT can’t place the signs until the gate is widened.  Ms. Scheeder said that there is a difference between policy and reality—DDOT is working on policy, but the perception in the community is that nothing’s happening. Mr. Jarboe mentioned that this lot is not a two-month addition to the street, but will be there for two years, until construction begins on the Hine site.  Carol Wright pointed out that there is a change in DDOT personnel, and that Derek Hardy (?) is now the contact person, and that DCPS is still involved in the issue.  She said that gates are required because there are two separate lots, one for workers and one for customers.

6.   Tenant’s Council

Mr. Bowers began by talking about early Tenant Council meetings, and how productive they had been.  He said it is time to put the pieces back together again, and this is a good time with the vacancy on the Council providing a good opportunity for others to step in, and they need to see whether there’s new blood willing to participate He presented the following report:

1.      Appointment of  Representatives to EMCAC (continued from October 1,2007 request)

Open issue:  The request was for each group (Farmer, Merchant, and Non-Food) meet to discuss their selection process, and for the representative for each group to report its process: How are representatives selected?  Only Merchant response has been provided.

2.      Merchant relocation to South Hall

a.      Merchants met with Management Alternatives, Inc.’s Patti McDonald and Reed Stepan.

b.      OPM will request a guard for security purposes during the move.

c.      Bug lights and signage are the responsibility of the Market Manager

d.      We are still on track to announce a move date on May 9^th.

e.      Merchant’s request a walk-through presentation on How the Market will operate.  Common use (shared) resources.

3.      Non-Food Vendors are concerned over their operations during the move, and the utilization of space in the North Hall plaza (form vs. functions)

4.      April 7 request from EMCAC Chair to help facilitate opening day celebration.

Mr.  Burger pointed out that the Tenant’s Council was formed at the founding of EMCAC and is a subcommittee of the board.  Ms. Scheeder added representatives of the three groups serve on EMCAC, and the Tenant’s Council has a different purpose.

Joe Snider, a vendor, said that the Tenant’s Council has failed the vendors miserably, and they don’t know when the meetings are, and we sit and listen to discussions of the moving of refrigerators, and not about our concerns.  Mr. Burger said the Tenant’s Council is a legally constituted entity and is supposed to be responsive to its constituents.  But, he said, it is a new day and it would behoove the group to meet with their representatives and create a group that’s brought up to date.  He said the Council has had problems, but this was a good time to end them.  He said the time is ripe to reinvigorate the Council, and the conversation about non-involvement should be at an end.  The Council is as strong as its members, because that group decides how it will operate.  Ms. Scheeder added that this is a very good tie because of the resignation—all of the groups should look at their representation.  Before the fire there was a lot of positive work done and people worked cooperatively.  It needs to work that way again.  Mr. Layman added that it should be simplified now that there’s a regular collection process and there’s a central point for communication.

Carol Wright said that there should be some unified channel of communication.  Mr. Gallo added that communication has to be better than it is.  There are huge challenges, like the programming of the North Hall activities that have to be looked at, and a tremendous amount of information that has to be shared.

7.       Treasurer’s Report

Mr. Gallo reported that EMCAC’s bank opening bank balance, was $12, 121.81, and there had been a check written to Roberta Weiner for the taking and transcribing of minutes for $247.50 (Check #179), leaving a balance on March 31, 2009 of $11, 574.31.  A check was written to Ewing Cole architects for $10,000 (Check #130), leaving a final balance on April 22, 2009 of $2,324.31.  He said that the current dues status is that there are four members paid, four members due, and three members optional. 

 8.     New Business

7^th Street Opening – Market Row Merchants Request

Ann Richards, of the Forecast, and Seth Shapiro, of Marvelous Market, presented a letter that has been written from the Market Row Association demanding that the 200 block of 7^th Street be re-opened to traffic once the Market is re-opened.  Larry Kamins, of Prudential Carruthers Real Estate , claims that the closed street is “killing our business”.  Ms. Scheeder said that this has been an issue for many years, and EMCAC has said that it will look  at what should be done  when the street work is completed, which will likely be September.  She said there is no hard data as to whether it is a good thing or a bad thing.  She said she hopes there can be community meetings to discuss the issue, but hard data is needed.  Ms. Brunson said that she has gone on the record saying that once the “cute” bricks are installed, they’ll never reopen the street.

Mr. Kuchenberg suggested that the financials for the Market Row merchants can be looked at, without talking about the specific numbers, but only percentages.  Mr. Jarboe said that the issue will most likely go through the ANC Planning and Zoning Committee.

Motion: Ms. Scheeder moved/Mr. Burger seconded a motion to refer the issue to the Market Operations Subcommittee.  Mr. Layman offered a friendly amendment to add “working closely with the ANC” to the motion.  It was accepted, and the motion passed unanimously.

Metro Signage

Motion:  Ms. Scheeder moved/Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to support the Sign Tiger initiative to get signage for the local Metro stops before the Market re-opens.  The motion passed 10-0-1, with Mr. Jarboe abstaining.

 9.    Community Comment

Mr. Burger commented on the conversations on the Tenant’s Council and Market Row, and said they were productive.  He said he is concerned that the artists are unhappy—if the artisans leave, what’s left, he asked.  He said he is glad it’s being looked at, and thanked them for what they’re doing.  He said that once the Market is back together, there will be a discussion about how the vendors will participate.

Sondra Allen said she had three issues: Marketing, Advertising, and a way of getting rid of junk.  She said that management of the vendors is still under the control of John Harrod and Tom Rall, and there’s no attempt to market the vendors.  She pointed out that there is a Craft Week in conjunction with the Smithsonian Craft Show featuring other craft venues around the area, and the Market is not—but should be—included.  She raised the issue that Mr. Margeson had scheduled a meeting for vendors for 6:30 on a weekday evening, when most can’t make it, and it excludes the vendors.  Mr. Margeson said he would reschedule the meeting within the next two weeks.  She said there should be a way of jurying the vendors to judge for their authenticity as craftspeople.  Ms. Scheeder agreed, and said it was a way of getting rid of junk.

Ms. Ambrose said that most of what’s been discussed at the meeting has been discussed for years.  Most of it is legislative construct—passed by the Council ten years ago, and the changes proposed are legislative.

 10.Adjournment

Motion: Mr. Edwards moved/ Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting.  It passed unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 9:07 pm

Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee

Minutes

Old Naval Hospital

Present: Chuck Burger, Barbara Eck, Monte Edwards, Larry Gallo, Bill Glasgow, Ken Jarboe, Donna Scheeder, Tom Kuchenberg, Angie Brunson, Richard Layman, Lisa Brooks (for Dan Tangherlini).

The meeting was convened at 7:06 PM.

1.      Agenda

Motion: Mr. Kuchenberg moved/ Mr. Burger seconded a motion to approve the agenda.  It passed unanimously.

 2.    Minutes

Motion:  Mr. Burger moved/Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to table the February minutes until the April meeting

 3.    Executive Committee

Brainstorming meeting on Reopening of Market

Donna Scheeder presented the report of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Return to Eastern Market:

A group consisting of EMCAC members and representatives from the various business and community organizations and interested individuals met at the Old Naval Hospital on March 26^th, 2009 to brainstorm ideas relating the Market’s reopening in the renovated building and a series of events and activities that would follow over the ensuing months.  Barry Margeson anticipated that the Market would be ready to open in early July.  The merchants, including Market Row and Barracks Row, will have a series of promotional tie-ins to various Market events.  After discussion, the group consensus was that activities would begin with the already-planned music series in May and conclude in late October with a fall hoedown.

There were numerous suggestions, and so far what can be put on a timeline is the following:

May/June: Concert Series

July:

·         4^th of July Parade

·         Event providing sneak preview of the South Hall: dependent on clearance from OPM.

·         Ribbon cutting ceremony with a street festival atmosphere.  Seth Shapiro and Jennifer Eubank agreed to come up with a list of fun activities for parents and children, such as a clown, face painting, etc.

·         There could be a parade of merchants moving a last symbolic item across the street to officially open their businesses to the tune of When the Saints Go Marching In.

·         It was suggested that we ask Parker Jayne to compose and write a song and perhaps get a DC poet to compose a poem for the occasion.

·         There will be a North Hall exhibit of photos of the Market construction and a continuous showing of the documentary about the Market the fire, and a how the Market has risen from the ashes.  The video has been commissioned by the Community Foundation.

·         Tours of the Market continue throughout the summer and fall

·         Contractors Ball

August:

September:

·         Concert series resumes

·         Homecoming event and promotions to welcome back vacationers and others who have been out of town for the summer and to kick off the fall harvest season at the Market

·         On-line silent auction to benefit the Market.  Will include the art that hung on the windows.

·         Suggestions included selling bricks and slate from the roof as commemoratives and we still have plaques left.

·         There was agreement to also have a fundraising event in the North Hall that could also serve to showcase it as a venue for events as a rental space.  There was discussion that has continued about tickets, pricing and timing.  Depending on when this was held, proceeds could be used to underwrite some of the other activities that are planned.  Nancy Breuer and a former EMCAC board member have agreed to organize this.

·         People also want to have a street dance for the neighborhood on a Friday night.  The Halloween on the Hill event was very popular.

·         It has also been suggested that a brochure on the Market and its history be done.  Roberta Weiner ahs volunteered to work on this.

·         There was also discussion about the fate of Market Day.  There was a general consensus that a sprint event at the Market celebrating the return of the famers, a kind of May Day celebration, would be a good way to go.

The focus is to go beyond Eastern Market and include the surrounding businesses in the promotional efforts.  “You can spend all day at Eastern Market” campaign which would encompass Barracks Row as well as 7^th Street and the 600 block of Pennsylvania Avenue.

The website needs to be re-focused to advertise the upcoming events.

Vendors would be encouraged to create items with a tie-in to the Restoration of the Market, and the re-occupation of the finished space of the Market.

Finally, there was discussion of the need for come professional help to pull this all together and the where the resources would come from to support that.  It was also suggested that some activities could be sponsored by the contractors.

Signage

Mr. Burger has been appointed chair of the Signage committee.  He reported that it is a group formed to address the signage for pedestrians and car traffic.  He said the group was calling itself the Sign Tigers and has representatives from EMCAC, CHAMPS, Barracks Row, the BID and ANC 6B.  They have met with DDOT and are taking an inventory of the signs that exist.  There are three kinds of signs: wayfinder signs (the large blue signs with directional arrows); a mish mash of green signs (this way to Eastern Market, etc.); and the round disks that are the Historic District signs (the BID does those).  He said they are looking at different gateways—arriving by car, bus, etc. from Union Station, Eastern Market Metro, etc.

He said it is an excellent group, with a big job.  After the inventory, it will take a year or two to have the signs in place.  A lot of work has already been done, but it hasn’t been executed.  The previous surveys have to be resurrected and implemented.  The signage of the Southeast Expressway is the really big job.

Approval to Use the Natatorium during Construction

Ms. Scheeder reported that the Executive Committee voted to approve the use of the Natatorium Plaza for vendors during streetscape construction, and it has been implemented.

 4.    Office of Property Management

 Management Operations

Barry Margeson reported that, despite the work going on on 7^th Street, there were 102 vendors on the Saturday previous to the meeting.  He said the Natatorium Plaza is working out well, and was very active on both Saturday and Sunday.  He reported that it is a bit of a puzzle for vendors to get in under the shed because there is only entry on the north and south ends of the street.  He said, however, that he has a team of workers from the Department of Corrections, under the supervision of Sgt. Battle, who are very much on top of things.  These are men who usually have Saturdays and Sundays off, but they volunteer between 6:30 and 8:30 on those days.  They are residents of a local halfway house.

He said that he would be taking a clicker count of visitors to the Market and getting numbers every few hours.  MR. Burger mentioned that there could be a safety issue with people crossing at North Carolina Avenue, and he was assured that it has been made perfectly safe.  Mr. Gallo asked for the financials on the Enterprise Fund.  He also expressed concerns about the wayfinding signs for help in finding a way through the construction.  He asked whether postcards could be printed for the vendors to hand out with a map.  Both Mr. Edwards and Ms. Scheeder complimented Mr. Margeson on the operation of the Natatorium Plaza.  Mr. Layman suggested that signage, similar to that used for the recent Marathon be posted on 7^th Street.  Mr. Burger suggested that a map of 7^th Street be forwarded to CHAMPS and Market Row, and arrangements be made to hand it out at the Metro stop, coffee places and other locations.  Lynn Holland, a longtime vendor, said that her concern was getting information to people who aren’t regulars, and that it was important to inform new people.  Carol Wright pointed out that Mr. Margeson has organized a meeting with Mr. Gallo, Mike Berman, Rudy Coates and herself to discuss outdoor vending.

Karen Edge said there was a new employee at Edge Advertising who is from Philadelphia and has done a lot of work on branding historic neighborhood.  She said the project requires a lot of teamwork, but it’s starting to make sense.  Dale Lowry discussed the temporal aspects of signage, and said there should be signs that say what’s going to happen on the horizon, such as when the cobblestones will be laid, and perhaps have a timeline.  Peter Waldron said he had spoken with DDOT to ask about the Hine parking lot, and the person he spoke with didn’t know where the signs would be, etc.

Construction

Curtis Clay introduced Management Alternatives, and its principals Reed Stepan and Patti McDonald, who have been hired by OPM to facilitate the move to the North Hall.  They have 26 years experience in the District in assisting the move of tenants, ranging from the Census Bureau to the Pittsburgh airport to small non-profits. They moved NPR while they were on the air. They said the first task is to work with OPM on equipment, largely working with contractors, and then working with tenants to put together a plan to transition with the focus on individuals.  Their goal is operate around each business, not to have businesses fit in to a pre-determined plan, ending up with an hour-by-hour moving plan.  Ms. Scheeder expressed her happiness at hearing what they had to say, and that there had been several discussions about how it would work and it is satisfying to find out from the experts.  She asked about how the move would fit in with the inspections that are needed, and Mr. Clay said he is working with DCRA to make certain it’s all coordinated.  Mr. Gallo asked whether Management Alternatives would implement the plan they developed and was told that their job is to implement—even if they have to move for 40 hours straight.  Mr. Clay said that these people are leaders and people have to follow.

Mr. Clay said they are now getting into the “nitty gritty” such as working with Verizon to determine what merchants’ needs are and how the logistics with utilities will be implemented. He also stated they are looking at the security system and keys and locks and how this will all operate.  Mr. Clay said that the marathon cost the project a day because the concrete trucks could not get in, but PEPCO has begun work on the street, but Washington Gas had to change its design and is moving forward.  Concrete work in the basement was scheduled to begin the first week in April, and the concrete walls in the Market are curing.  He said that 14 plasterers would be working that Sunday.  Mr. Gallo said that previous minutes indicate that the opening would be in July, and Mr. Clay responded that in the middle of May he would be able to provide an opening date.  Mr. Burger said that he would like to see the move done in an intelligent, professional manner, without a drop dead date so that it’s done right.  Ms. Scheeder said it’s as though a veil has been lifted with the new moving plans.  Mr. Kuchenberg said he would like to see the main opening event occur in September when it’s not so hot.

 5.    Market Operation Committee

Mr. Kuchenberg said that because of the presence of Management Alternatives he had no report.  He said that Mr. Glasgow was trying to begin figuring out what has to be done and how to facilitate the move, and now there’s someone to do it.

Mr. Glasgow added that there had been a meeting, and some of his recommendations are that the security cameras should be on before the move, and that the move should take place when the job is complete.  He said he would end up with two of everything, and some of it can be used for dry storage.  He also said that the closing of the East Hall should be well advertised so that people can come and clean them out so there’s less to move.  He said that he would be moving as a self-contained unit and it’s not complicated now. 

He said that the community had two demands when the East Hall was proposed: that they didn’t want the compressors running all night outside and that the tent should come down after the move was complete.

6.   Capital Improvements

Bricks

Mr. Edwards reported on the recent history of the two different episodes of bricks at Eastern Market :

a.      In the course of excavating for utilities for the Market restoration, the bricks that were removed from the south end of the Market by Fourney Construction found their way into the custody of a local resident, and OPM ended up having to engage in a re-acquisition effort so  they could be re-used at the Market.

b.      In the course of the Streetscape work, DDOT determined that the bricks in the existing sidewalks did not meet current strength specification, and they were removed and replaced with new, period-appropriate molded brick. The removed bricks were stockpiled by Anchor Construction and EMCAC arranged for the Capital Hill Garden Club to determine an appropriate reuse of the bricks on Capitol Hill.  About 30 pallets (over 10,000 brick) are involved, and the Garden Club determined they should be provided for pathways ,a patio, and other projects at Congressional Cemetery

 Streetscape

Mr. Edwards reported that he still had no report from the Urban Forestry Administration on trees and tree boxes.  He reminded the body that the tree boxes in the center of the North Hall plaza will be used for light posts for the special event lighting. When a tree box is removed, it is required to be replaced, and the location of the trees boxes on the North Plaza must be determined so paving can proceed and the location of bike racks and other street furniture can be determined. He said that  except for the tree boxissue, the streetscape is moving forward on schedule, and said that the contractor is going to pour a 4’x4’ samples of the crosswalk material at 7^th Street and North Carolina Avenue.  Mr. Burger asked about the strength of street, which is supposed to withstand two tons of weight.  Mr. Edwards said he hasn’t heard anything about that.  Mr. Gallo added that it’s been reported that they’re on schedule.

 7.    Tenant’s Council

The Tenant’s Council did not have a report.

8.  Treasurer’s Report

Mr. Gallo reported that EMCAC’s bank balance on February 1, 2009 was $11,771.81, and there had been deposits of $350, making a balance on March 25, 2009 of $12,121.81.  He said that he had received dues in March from one member, and all other dues for 2009 are outstanding.

 9.    Community  Comment

Sondra Allen, who identifies herself as a non-food vendor, accused EMCAC of an overwhelming dismissal of non-food vendors, and she said she was demanding that EMCAC do a better job of thinking about this.  She said there were artists—she particularly mentioned artist Don Kessler whose paintings of the Market are well known—who would love to be involved in the re-opening of the Market.  The artists, she said, should be approached respectfully, and promoted.  She said there is no basic respect for the artists.  She mentioned that Bill Glasgow had said at the March meeting that outdoor vendors should not have a voice in choosing a new manager, and that, she said, is apartheid.

Ms. Scheeder said that the selection process had been established by law and representatives of the vendors were involved in the process.  She said that there were several public meetings and the framing of the RFP was very public.  She said that Ms. Allen has excellent ideas on how to involve more people, and she invited Ms. Allen to participate in the planning for the opening, saying that her ideas were valuable.  Ms. Brunson said that the city set the rules for the selection process, and EMCAC members had to sign confidentiality agreements.  She said that Bill Glasgow did not serve on the selection committee.  Mr. Glasgow added that the non-food vendors are part of the Eastern Market family, and we should not be trying to beat each other up.  Mr. Layman added that she was not the only person who was not listened to.

Ms. Allen said that the law is not being followed.  One of the things is that the interim manager is not talking to the old manager, so we’re being called liars.  She said that over 60% of the merchandise on Saturdays is from New York, but people who have been there for ten years are being displaced.  Ms. Scheeder responded that she shares Ms. Allen’s concern about the makeup of the vendors, but it’s very difficult to get an accurate fix on what’s going on.  These are complex issues, issues that EMCAC has to come to terms with.  We have to get a baseline settled through our Application Review Committee.  Ms. Allen responded that the longer it goes on, the worse it gets and that people don’t know how to get a space.  Ms. Scheeder said there is a moratorium on new vendors because of the space crunch caused by the construction.  Ms. Brunson said that most of these concerns can be dealt with by the Application Review Committee or can be brought to the Tenant’s Council.

 10.New Business

Ms. Scheeder said that the next meeting dates would be April 22, May 27, June 24, and July 29.

 10.Adjournment

Motion: Mr. Edwards moved/ Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting.  It passed unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 pm

Immediate Release
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Media Contacts:  Karyn LeBlanc at (202) 671-3490 (DDOT), Bill Rice at (202) 437-7787 (OPM)
 
Eastern Market and Outside Markets Remain Open During Streetscape Work
 
(Washington, D.C.) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Office of Property Management (OPM) announce a closely coordinated, accelerated plan for the streetscape work and the required temporary relocation of some farmers and exhibitors from along 7th Street, in front of Eastern Market.  DDOT is scheduled to finish this phase of the streetscape project in early June, just prior to the reopening of the market.
 
In an effort to minimize impact on the residential and business community, DDOT & OPM are taking the following actions:
 
·         DDOT has begun the streetscape with the recently announced closure of 7th Street, SE, from C Street to North Carolina Avenue. The closure will last until June, when the work will shift to the stretch of 7th Street from C Street to Pennsylvania Avenue.
 
·         The sidewalks on either side of 7th Street remain open and accessible allowing pedestrians to shop along both sides of 7tth Street.
 
·         Starting this weekend, OPM will relocate outdoor exhibitors and farmers, usually located on 7th Street, to a variety of locations in and around the market including stalls on the grassy area of 7th Street, south of C Street, the Farmer’s Line Shed, and the North Hall Plaza.
 
“Just as the indoor Eastern Market merchants were quickly relocated after the fire two years ago, I am confident this short-term move will meet the needs of the outdoor exhibitors,” said Robin-Eve Jasper, Director of OPM. “I want to thank DDOT for their assistance and cooperation to insure that the DDOT streetscape and OPM renovation are completed together this summer.”
 
“Closing the street will assist us in expediting the work as we coordinate our efforts with OPM” said Gabe Klein, Acting Director for DDOT.  “The community has been a great asset in providing input into these important decisions.”
 
To accommodate weekday 7th Street customer needs, new public parking is available at the Hine School lot between Pennsylvania Ave SE and C Street SE, from 6 am to 7 pm.  This parking will not be available on weekends.
 
The DDOT streetscape includes total removal and upgrade of the existing roadway and bed, installation of new Colonial cobblestones, stamped concrete at crosswalks, brick sidewalks, granite curbing, new lighting and utility upgrades.
 
The OPM Market renovation includes historically appropriate roof and floors, upgraded ADA access, new heating and air conditioning, new windows and doors, and for the North Hall, movable partitions, a new stage and theatrical lighting.
 
East Hall, the temporary home for the vendors displaced from the Market building by the April, 2007 fire is unaffected by the street work
 
Bill Rice
Public Information Officer, Ofc. of the Dir., Ofc. of Property Mgt.
2000 14th St., NW, 8th fl, Wash., DC  20009
(202) 437-7787, 202.727.9877/f
bill.rice@dc.gov; opm.dc.gov
 

Dear Eastern Market Community and All Interested Parties,
  
As required by the Eastern Market Act, the DC Office of Property Management announces the following public meeting:
 
What: Discussion of short-term use of the plaza in front of William H. Rumsey Aquatic Center by vendors temporarily moved from Eastern Market because of the 7th Street streetscape project
 
Where: William H. Rumsey Aquatic Center / Capitol East – 635 North Carolina Ave SE
 
When: Thursday, March 12, 7PM
 
All interested parties are urged to attend. Please feel free to distribute this message further to other stakeholders.
 
 
Barry Margeson
 
Interim Manager, Eastern Market 
 
Barry Margeson
Realty Program Specialist
Portfolio Division
DC Office of Property Management
2000 14th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
Office: 202.741.0940
Cell: 202.689.4031
Fax: 202.727.9877
barry.margeson@dc.gov
www.opm.dc.gov
 

Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee

Minutes

Old Naval Hospital

February 25, 2009

Present: Chuck Burger, Barbara Eck, Monte Edwards, Larry Gallo, Bill Glasgow, Ken Jarboe, Donna Scheeder, Tom Kuchenberg, Angie Brunson, Richard Layman, Lisa Brooks (for Dan Tangherlini).

The meeting was convened at 7:06 PM.

1.      Agenda

Motion: Mr. Kuchenberg moved/ Mr. Jarboe seconded a motion to approve the agenda.  It passed unanimously.

 2.    Minutes

Motion:  Mr. Burger moved/Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to approve the September meeting minutes as presented.  The motion passed unanimously.

 3.    Executive Committee

Business Coordination Group meeting

Donna Scheeder reported that a first meeting of the Business Coordination Group, organized to discuss and implement joint marketing plans for the Eastern Market neighborhood met.  The group includes Barracks Row, Market Row, CHAMPS, National Capitol Bank, and the Riverfront BID.  She said that the replacement of the N22 bus with the Circulator presents a good opportunity, especially with a stop labeled Eastern Market.  There’s a lot of interest in the reopening of the Market, and how that can be capitalized on. 

Re-Opening Steering Committee

EMCAC will form a steering committee to plan the opening, which will include representatives of all the other organizations, and will work with the City on activities and promotions for a week-long celebration.  There will be a steering committee meeting in mid-March.  Board members Burger, Kuchenberg, Jarboe, Glasgow, Gallo, Edwards and Roberta Weiner volunteered for the committee.  Mr. Burger added that it should be a working committee, not a planning committee.

Hine RFP

Ms. Scheeder announced that two of the developers planning to submit proposals for the redevelopment of Hine JHS have contacted EMCAC for ideas.  She said that the resolution passed by EMCAC on the redevelopment will be used as guidelines in discussions with developers.  The RFP deadline has been delayed a month to allow more time for submissions.

Application Advisory Review Committee

Motion: Ms. Scheeder moved/Mr. Burger seconded a motion to appoint Mr. Jarboe and Ms. Eck to the Application Advisory Review Committee.  It passed without opposition.  The members of the Committee are now Burger, Glasgow, Gallo, Brunson, Jarboe and Eck.

Music Series

The Capitol Hill Community Foundation will once again sponsor a music series for the summer.  They are trying to figure out where the musicians will be located.

 4.    Market Operations Subcommittee

Mr. Kuchenberg said that he will hold a meeting with the merchants and others to get all the issues and questions about the move back to the Market on the table, and to decide which need further work.  He wants to solicit ideas and seek out experts in making a quick move, including reaching out the real estate community.  He solicited e-mails for suggestion of the issues.  Ms. Scheeder said that Angie, Bill and Larry should be polling their groups for questions and ideas.  Ms. Scheeder asked that keeping the Market open seven days a week, and extending the Market’s hours should be put on the agenda of the group.  Additionally, the question of a weekday farmer’s market should be resolved.

Mr. Layman said that the national Public Markets conference will be held in San Francisco, and that EMCAC should be represented.  MR. Burger suggested checking with the Office of Economic Development to see whether they are sending someone.

 5.    Office of Property Management

Management

Mr. Margeson reported that he has collected $14,366 in rents from the weekend vendors, and $21,102 in rent from the merchants during January 2009. He said that he is, however, having more trouble establishing spending authority, and they are not yet at the point where they can use the Enterprise Fund.  He said that OPM will lay out the funds and get reimbursed by Enterprise Fund when they can. 

He reported that work on the RFP for the Market Manager is ongoing.

He reported that the Hine parking lot is now available for merchant parking on weekdays.

He said he hasn’t wanted to do too much since his tenure is limited, but he has circulated the new Eastern Market legislation, and invited all the vendors to attend the EMCAC meeting.  He has also announced to the Eastern Market community a Vendor of the Month award, with nominations from the vendors and merchants.  He said, however, that so far he has received only one nomination.

Mr. Gallo said that Mr. Margeson has put a lot of attention and time into making changes that work and that he has provided more focus on outdoor activities. He asked about what expenses Mr. Margeson was making.  He replied that he has an off-duty police officer doing security on the weekend from 7 to 9:30 a.m. when he is collecting rents, who also comes in the afternoon.  There is also money being expended for overtime for OPM workers who are there from 9 a.m. to about 3:30.  There are also facilities management personnel who are cleaning on a daily basis, and who clean both Saturday morning and again at the end of the day.  He said there are also advertising expenses, and he had worked with Edge Advertising in January.  He said they are also keeping up with the trash hauling, and it’s happening more often than ever before.  He said he would send the financials.  Mr. Burger asked for them within the next 30 days, and offered any assistance he needed.  Mr. Kuchenberg said he would like a first estimate on income and expenses.

Mr. Layman said that he feels that parking should be metered.  Ms. Scheeder said it is a short term issue because long-term there will be underground parking at Hine.

Mr. Gallo mentioned that since January all revenues have gone into the operation of the Market and everyone is paying their fair share.

Construction

Curtis Clay reported that Saturday work has begun at the Market.  He also reported that OPM has installed plexiglass windows and that it is possible to look into the Market days and night.  He said they are laying bricks and the herringbone will be at 90⁰, rather than 45⁰.  They are ready to pour the concrete in the basement and for main floor, but need three days when the temperature is about 40⁰.  Lightening protection has been installed at the top of each chimney with grounding wires.  Work on the North Hall roof is continuing.  The scaffolding will be up until mid-April.  He asked how much notice will be needed before the shutdown of the East Hall, and Ms. Scheeder responded that the Market Operations Subcommittee is working on that.  He said that OPM is hiring a logistics consultant to coordinate with all individuals.  He suggested that the coordination meetings no longer have to take place now that Mr. Margeson’s on the case, and only Mr. Gallo has showed up for the last few.  Mr. Gallo said that the meetings are important particularly since the construction is reaching a crossroads.  Mr. Edwards agreed, saying that the reason he hasn’t attended the meetings is that their focus  is  for vendors so they can know what to expect in terms of available vending space, etc.  Mr. Burger asked whether the fencing will be down by May 1 and Mr. Clay said he couldn’t guarantee that, but would know by the end of April.  Mr. Kuchenberg asked whether the logistics consultant has been hired and was told it is in process.

6.   Capital Improvements

Streetscape

Mr. Edwards submitted the following report on the paving materials that will be used in the streetscape at the Market:

Report Concerning Paving Materials

DDot installed samples of a molded red brick (with some variations in color) that is proposed for the sidewalks and two types of pavers for 7^th Street in front of the Market.

The pavers are 4” by 8” Holland Pavers and 6” by 9” Colonial Cobble Stones.  Both pavers are pre-cast concrete and uniform in size.  The sample installations were available for viewing at the north end of the Farmers’ Line shed from February 12 –19.

Public comments have been received.

Molded Brick for the Sidewalks.

There was consensus support for the proposed dark red with variegated shading, molded brick for the sidewalk.  They are of uniform size and have minimum rounding of the edges to be pedestrian friendly.

Pavers for the Street.

There was consensus support for differentiating the street paving in front of the Market.

Both pavers have fairly flat patterns, with uniform and shallow joints that will be compatible with foot traffic as well as strollers.  Out of 40 email comments, 21 favored the Colonial Cobble Stone, 15 preferred the Holland Pavers, 3 voted for brick, and one endorsed the concept of differentiated paving but did not indicate a preference for any of the samples.

There was overwhelming support for the Colonial Cobble Stone, with some describing the Holland Pavers as more appropriate for a shopping mall.  A representative criticism of the Colonial Cobble Stones:

•  I believe the Holland paver surface will be more convenient for most people as it is smoother.  This is especially true for wheelchairs and those who use walkers or have other problems walking.  The cobblestone might be more attractive, but too rough in my view. 

But the majority of the comments did not share that view:

•   I walked by Eastern Market this afternoon to check out the bricks and cobblestones.  I was a little worried about the stones.  (My ankles aren’t what they used to be.)  These were not what I expected — much more navigable but still quite handsome.  Brick looks good too.  Good job!

•  I prefer the cobblestone pavers rather than the holland pavers because (1) the Holland pavers are too similar to the sidewalk brick, (2) cobblestone seems more historic, and (3) cobblestone might act to slow down traffic on that block where there is a lot of pedestrian traffic even when the block is open to road traffic.

The Market Row Merchants recommend the Colonial Cobble Stone paves be installed.  At yesterday’s Streetscape Construction Coordination meeting, the participants endorsed the Colonial Cobble Stone pavers, and today, DDot’ endorsed the Colonial Cobble Stones.

Conclusion

Motion:  Mr. Edwards moved/ Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion that EMCAC should endorse the use of the molded red brick for the sidewalks and use of the Colonial Cobble stone for paving 7th Street in front of the Market. 

Mr. Edwards reported that if the work on the water main is scheduled to be completed by March 9^th, and DDot can complete everything in the block in front of the Market by June.  They will be closing 7^th Street from the completion of the water main work until the completion of the work.  Ms. Scheeder said that all of this is dependent on the ability to use the area in front of Hine and in front of the Natatorium for vendors.  There is an option which will slow things considerably—to do one half of the street at a time. Mr. Gallo pointed out that there will be significant management challenges, and Mr. Glasgow  noted the delivery problems.

Mr. Burger said he was uncomfortable making a decision when there are 25 businesses with different needs.  He said that several businesses are on the verge of bankruptcy, and he is concerned about the impact on the stores.  Ms. Eck said that it’s going to have a negative impact and there will be difficulties no matter what, and suggested that perhaps the motion could be amended to say “depending on mitigating circumstances.”  Ms. Brunson said that the whole street had been closed on that day, and business was terrible.  Mr. Layman said that while he understands that desire to accelerate the work, you can’t do an opening in four months, and the opening should be in September, with a soft opening before then.  Mr. Kuchenberg said that he agrees with Mr. Burger and Mr. Layman, and he’s concerned about deliveries. Ms. Scheeder suggested that a separate meeting on this proposal be held in order to obtain answers to the many questions and issues that were raised.  Motion: Ms. Eck moved to table the motion until there was a meeting with DDOT to resolve the issues.  Mr. Burger said he would invite the merchants, and Mr. Glasgow said that due diligence has to be done because of the problems.  Mr. Layman pointed out the problems that merchants on P Street and in Georgetown had when extensive street work was being done.  Mr. Edwards announced that the meeting with DDOT would be held on March 4^th at the Old Naval Hospital.  Mr. Burger said that Councilmember Wells’ office, and the Office of Planning and Economic Development should be included.

Light Poles

Mr. Edwards reported that Forney Construction, the Urban Forestry Administration, DDOT and the EMCAC Tenant’s Council had met on-sit on the North Plaza i concerning the light fixtures and tree boxes.  The standards for the special event lighting are to be placed in tree boxes, and may involve moving the tree boxes closer to the sidewalk.  Urban Forestry will provide recommendations concerning  trees species, and the size and design of tree boxes, and where to put them.  After that the bike racks, trash cans can be placed.  The west side of 7^th Street should have as few obstructions as possible.  Mr. Edward said that the City uses a basic tree, which is small, and there is the possibility of using DDOT or other funds to pay for larger trees.

 7.    Tenant’s Council

The Tenant’s Council did not have a report.

8.  Treasurer’s Report

Mr. Gallo reported that there were no expenses, and no income.  Mr. Edwards said that there has to be a check written to Ewing Cole to begin their conservation report before everything disappeared.

 9.    Audience Comment

Sondra Allen, who identified herself as a “non-food vendor,” expressed her concern that she had no input into the RFP.  She said she had been at the Market intermittently for eight years under the aegis of Market 5, and complained of a member of EMCAC who was hostile to non-food vendors.  She said that members of EMCAC talked to only a few people and she was confused about what was going on.  She said she was not e-mailed in advance of this meeting and has no voice in who’s going to be in charge.  Ms. Scheeder explained that Mr. Gallo and Ms. Brunson sit on EMCAC as representatives of the vendors.  She said that the RFP had been discussed at several open meetings, and Mr. Gallo made many good suggestions.  Mike Berman and Mike Bowers who represent the Tenant’s Council are very open to hearing what the vendors have to say.  The RFP was a standard, confidential process, but what went into it was extremely open.  There was a consultant involved, and community meetings, and finally, a resolution stating preferences.  Mr. Layman said that John Harrod didn’t sign the agreement, and his efforts have to be respected.  It is vitally important the process does not get corrupted.  Ms. Scheeder pointed out that EMCAC was concerned about having an open process, and were given an opinion as to what EMCAC’s parameters were. She pointed out that EMCAC members signed a confidentiality agreement in order to participate in the process and they could not violate that. EMCAC’s major concern, she said, is that the RFP process concludes with what is best for the Market.  She pointed out that there had been a trying time with the previous market manager and it is pleasing that Mr. Margeson is working to build relationships with the vendors.  Mr. Gallo said that the important thing is that the RFP move forward as quickly as possible.  Mr. Glasgow said that he has been at the Market for 48 years, and before the Eastern Market legislation that named her a “non-food vendor” he had no security, and now he does.

 10.New Business

Ms. Scheeder said that the next meeting date would be March 25.

 10.Adjournment

Motion: Mr. Glasgow moved/ Mr. Jarboe seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting.  It passed unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 pm

GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Office of Property Management
For Release: Friday, January 9, 2009
Contact: Bill Rice
 
Eastern Market to Open for MLK Birthday and Inauguration
 
(Washington, DC) Mayor Adrian Fenty today announced that historic Eastern Market on Capitol Hill will be open on Monday, January 19, Martin Luther King’s Birthday, and on Tuesday, January 20, to introduce the Market to the many visitors in town for the Inauguration of President Obama.  The Market, on 7th and C Streets, SE, is normally closed on Mondays
 
“Eastern Market is one of the District’s great historic attractions and the Market is a short 7-block walk from where President Obama will be sworn-in on January 20th,” said Mayor Fenty.   During the first half of the first Obama Administration the Market will undergo exciting changes, including new management, the reopening of the renovated historic Market building and completion of a major streetscape project on 7th Street.”
 
The 135-year-old Market is host to a wide variety of shopping, dining and visitor experiences.  In the East Hall, merchants offer fresh meat, fish,  flowers, cheese, poultry, vegetables, deli foods, dairy products and prepared lunch dishes. The weekend outdoor market, also open on MLK Day and on Inauguration Day, offers fresh fruit and vegetables, antiques, crafts and handmade imported cultural items.
  
Bill Rice
Public Information Officer, Ofc. of the Dir., Ofc. of Property Mgt.
2000 14th St., NW, 8th fl, Wash., DC  20009
(202) 437-7787, 202.727.9877/f
bill.rice@dc.gov; opm.dc.gov

Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee

Minutes

Old Naval Hospital

January 14, 2009

Present: Chuck Burger, Barbara Eck, Monte Edwards, Bill Glasgow, Ken Jarboe, Donna Scheeder, Tom Kuchenberg, Angie Brunson, Richard Layman, Lisa Brooks (for Dan Tangherlini).

The meeting was convened at 7:04 PM.

1.      Agenda

Motion: Mr. Kuchenberg moved/ Mr. Burger seconded a motion to approve the agenda. It passed unanimously.

 2.    Minutes

Motion:  Mr. Burger moved/Ms. Eck seconded a motion to approve the September meeting minutes as presented.  The motion passed unanimously.

 3.    Executive Committee

Donna Scheeder announced the beginning of the design process for the Hine development, with a meeting of some of the developers who plan to bid and community representatives.  She reported on the community meeting held on December 20^th to discuss the status of the RFP for Hine.  Parking is still a high priority on the list of community priorities for the project.  The bottom line for EMCAC is the resolution that EMCAC adopted, a copy of which is attached to these minutes.

Ms. Scheeder also announced that a joint meeting of representatives of barracks Row, CHAMPS and Market Row merchants to discuss cooperative marketing efforts is scheduled for January 23^rd.

 4.     Presentation by DDOT

Mr. Abdullahi Mohamed, DDOT Coordinator for Wards 5 and 6, described the benefits and cooperation of the Streetscape Construction Coordination Group.  At its last meeting, the Group met with DDOT’s consultants and materials suppliers to evaluate different molded brick samples for the sidewalk around the Market, as well as samples of paving materials that would differentiate the paving of 7^th Street in front of the Market.  Fairly flat patterns, with uniform and shallow joints have been recommended that will be compatible with foot traffic as well as strollers.  A slightly raised crosswalk with a differentiated surface will also serve as a kind of speed bump.  A contrasting stone, rather than paint, is recommended to mark the angle parking spaces in front of the Market.  No such marking of the parallel spaces on the east side of 7^th Street is recommended.  A sample of the Colonial Cobble Stone street paving was shown, as well as drawings of the proposed installation.  Samples of the Colonial Cobble Stone and molded brick will be installed at the north end of the Market and public comment will be invited.  There were questions regarding the paving to be used on the alleys.  Streetscape construction will begin on January 26^th and DDOT will provide notice to nearby residents.

Mr. Burger pointed out the need for direction or Way Finding signs to Eastern Market at the bottom of the 6^th Street ramp off the SE/SW Freeway..  Mr. Edwards recalled that EMCAC had asked about including the Eastern Market logo on the Eastern Market Way Finding signs.  Mr. Layman pointed out that other cities use logos on their Way Finding signage and offered to provide photographic examples.  Ms. Scheeder suggested that EMCAC should have a committee look at the entire signage issue and that this group include representatives from the other organizations that represent the Capitol Hill business community.

 5.    Office of Property Management

Mr. Margeson reported that he has assumed the duties of acting Market Manager and the transition for the East Hall has been smooth.  New contracts are now in place. Some complications had to be addressed with the Farmers’ Line and Flea market vendors. He has now documented 156 exhibitors and vendors, tracked where people are and established this over 2 weekends.  Team from OPM met all exhibitors and assigned locations.  The first weekend was a “rent holiday” with no fees charged.  Beginning the second weekend, he has had a representative from the DC Treasurer’s Office present from 7:30 to 9:30 AM.  Charging a flat $30 per space, they collected $4,007 that weekend, which has been deposited in the Enterprise Fund.  Money in the enterprise fund is now accessible for spending on Eastern Market-related business expenses.  OPM has spending authority for $9,000 this year, and with more funds coming in, that authority will increase.  After discussions with the exhibitors and vendors, he has established a new fee schedule that standardizes rental fees by space size–$25 for a small space and $40 for a large space.

Responses from the exhibitors and vendors have been favorable.  He is accepting no new vendors, but is welcoming the return of vendors who previously vended at the market. Some of the merchants had been concerned about losing spaces where they had traditionally operated, but Mr. Margeson had drawn up a map of the north plaza and the 7^th St. shed area and the vendors have been satisfied.

Mr. Glasgow observed that the East Hall janitorial service has improved.

There had been letters handed out to exhibitors by Market 5 indicating that they were in negotiations with OPM to continue their management of exhibitors.  Ms. Scheeder has checked with OPM and this is incorrect.

Mr. Clay reported that OPM had held off work on the North Hall roof because of the holiday vending, but that work is now proceeding.  The South Hall floor demolition is now complete.  Plastic viewing windows will be installed on 7th Street to allow viewing of the construction.  OPM has been coordinating the Minkoff roof work with the Forney general construction in terms of work on the Center Hall cornice.  The air conditioning lines have been laid out and the chillers and electric switch gear have been delivered.  Brownstone has been sourced and ordered from a US quarry.  The contractor is having difficulty in matching the 5’ by 5’ grid pattern on the South Hall floor.  The contractor can submit alternative specifications that are subject to OPM review and approval.

Mr. Glasgow asked about a plan for rat abatement, pointing out that now would be the best time to place bait in the floor and in the walls to combat the problem even before the merchants move in. He also expressed concern about whether the basement freezers will be available at the time the merchants move back into the South Hall.  Mr. Kuchenberg pointed out that is only one of several issues that can disrupt the move-back.  Ms. Scheeder expressed the need for a separate meeting or coordinating committee to address the move-back to the South Hall.

Mr. Layman emphasized the need for coordination of the licensing and inspection.  Mr. Kuchenberg pointed out the need for expertise in facilitating a coordinated, successful move from the East Hall to the restored Market.  A lengthy discussion about the importance of a coordinated move ensued. Motion: Ms. Eck moved and Mr. Kuchenberg seconded that a committee of merchants work with Mr. Kuchenberg’s Operations Subcommittee to collaborate on the move. The motion passed on a voice vote.

6.   Capital Improvements

Fourth Revised Drawings

Mr. Edwards offered a report on the Fourth Revised Drawings for the Market renovation.  While received on November 26^th, the drawings and specifications are dated October 3 and do not reflect the final merchant stall configurations for the South Hall.  OPM has acknowledged this fact, but has not yet provided drawings that reflect those final stall configurations. He said that while this Subcommittee’s resources are best utilized in reviewing actual plans, rather than interim iterations, nonetheless the Subcommittee has reviewed those drawing and offers the following comments and recommendations:

The Relocation Staging Plan.

Sheet G005 depicts a very lengthy schedule to move the Merchants from the East Hall into the restored South Hall:

·      On day one, operations in the East Hall will cease.

·      Two days are allowed for the Merchants to remove anything that does not move into the South hall and to clean what does move.

·      Preparing the South Hall plumbing, electrical, etc. for the move-in MAY or MAY NOT occur before operations cease in the East Hall.

·      10 days are allowed to relocate equipment from the East Hall to the South Hall.

·      Installing fans and lighting in the South Hall MAY or MAY NOT begin prior to the equipment move-in.

·      5 days are scheduled for Merchants to move in

·      5 days are scheduled for Health Department inspections.

The numbers provided add up to 22 days, but with the imprecise requirements on the contractor, it will likely be more than a month.  The Subcommittee recommends a move-in schedule of no more than a week, that hopefully can begin on a Monday and allow the grand reopening of the Market the following Saturday.

 Lighting and Fans.

Sheets A153, A154 and E 102b depict 41 42 inch ceiling fans and 4 29 inch ceiling fans.

There will be 66 fluorescent fixtures for the Merchant work areas,  85 Pendent incandescent display fixtures, and 16 200w halogens in the Market Lunch areas, all separately switch controlled by  individual merchants.

The drawings only address merchant electric.  The Subcommittee could find nothing about general area lighting.  When EMCAC previously recommended that general area lighting be controlled by a solar dimmer system, we were told it was fluorescent and it could not be controlled by a dimmer system.  EMCAC provided OPM with information concerning dimmer systems for fluorescent lighting and the cost savings and better, less “washed out”, merchant displays through use of solar control of that dimming.

Merchant Equipment.

The pottery studio will not relocate their kiln(s), but will install new electric and gas kilns.

For the South Hall merchants, OPM will own most of the equipment, ranging from refrigerated deli cases, walk-in coolers, ovens, weighing scales, slicers for cheese and meat, and a rotisserie.

Of the East Hall equipment, 5 refrigerated deli cases will be abandoned, and replaced with 5 new deli cases, plus a new display refrigerator. All will be owned by OPM.

 Walk-in Coolers

Details show insulated floors for the walk-in coolers (sheets MP-2, SM-0).  However, for Union Meat, there is no such detail, although the drawing (Sheet UM-1) does show ramps up into the walk-in freezer and cooler, indicating they likely will have insulated floors.

There is no detail showing insulation of the ceiling of the compressor room in the basement, which we have previously recommended because of the high temperature of that room.

The report, a copy of which is attached to the official copy of these minutes, also described the following concerns and recommendations that have been raised by EMCAC, but have not been addressed by OPM:

·    The need to provide automatic control of the lighting of the flagpole to comply with federal law (4 USC 1 §6).

·    The need to Insulate the bases of the walk-in refrigeration units in the South Hall.

·    The need to accomplish the treatment of lightning protection on the exterior of the building in an architecturally sensitive manner.

Mr. Layman explained that the coordinating committee that Ms. Scheeder has proposed for the move-back needs to involve the various DC inspectors.

Mr. Kuchenberg pointed out that there are people that are expert in accomplishing such a move.

Mr. Clay explained that there are unique constraints that in the view of OPM will require a longer time for the move-back: a third of the equipment will be new, a third of the equipment will require modification and those things will take a lot of time.

Ms. Scheeder explained it is necessary to accomplish the move-back as quickly as possible and suggested that EMCAC approve the Report and get to OPM and begin to put together the EMCAC coordinating committee to address the move-back.

Motion: Ms. Eck moved Mr. Kuchenberg seconded a motion to approve the Report. The motion passed unanimously

Paint Finishes

Mr. Edwards presented a report concerning the proposed paint finishes .  The Report addresses the drawings dated October 29^th that specify the paint colors that are proposed to be used for the renovated Market as well as the August 28, 2008 “Historic Paint Finishes Report” prepared by Matthew Mosca.  Some of the important recommendations from the Mosca Report are different from what is being proposed on the October 29 drawings.

·          EMCAC generally supports the Mosca Report recommendations and opposes the OPM proposals that do not implement the Mosca recommendations.

·          EMCAC disagrees with the Mosca recommendations and the OPM proposals for the exterior trim colors (Item 8, below) and for the North Hall interior wall color (item 9, below).

·          EMCAC objects to the proposal to paint the structurally significant roof trusses the same receding white as the ceiling rather than a different color that would visually distinguish their unique design.

The Report, which includes 3 attachments, is attached to the official copy of these minutes.  The body of the Report appears below:

Historic Paint Finishes Report.

The Mosca Report analyzed the historic paint finishes for the Market.  The Report consists of 49 pages and the findings and recommendations of the Report are tabulated in summary form in attachments A (South Hall) and Attachment B (North Hall).

The findings in the Mosca Report are well documented and the recommendations logically flow from those findings.

OPM Proposals that Implement the Mosca Report

1.  South Hall Interior Walls

The interior South Hall plaster walls were finished in a reddish color that is described as moderate red with a ferric oxide pigment (p. 15-18).  The Mosca Report recommends a salmon red (p. 27).  OPM’s October 29^th drawings propose the same salmon red, color P03.[1]

EMCAC agrees with the OPM proposal.

2.  South Hall Interior Doors.

The interior South Hall doors were originally painted a moderate pinkish brown (p.13 ) to approximate the brownstone, and that “brownstone” color is recommended for the restoration (p. 30). [2]  The October 29 drawings propose to paint the interior South Hall doors a pinkish brown (paint chip P17) and the HVAC kiosks are proposed to be the same “brownstone” color.

EMCAC supports this proposal for the South Hall interior door color. 

For the kiosks, EMCAC  recommends that a color different from the interior door “brownstone” color and different from the interior trim (item 5 below) be used.  The HVAC kiosks are new and should be painted a color that makes them appear less prominent.

3.  North Hall Entry Door.

There is only one surviving original door for the North Hall that was not replaced during the 1970s restoration (p. 41).  It was painted first white, then grayish pink, then the “brownstone” color. The Report recommends white (p. 46).  The interior finishes sheet of the October 29^th drawings for the North Hall indicates color P10 (an off-white) for both the north entry door and the wainscoating.  However, the rendering shows a pinkish brown color for the entry door.  EMCAC assumes the pinkish brown on the rendering is the “brownstone” color and the P10 designation is in error.

EMCAC recommends that color P17 (shown on the rendering and the same “brownstone” color used for the interior of the South Hall doors) be used.

4.  North Hall Dado

The Masco report explains that the brick dado (chair rail)in the North Hall, originally unpainted (p. 38), was painted red, apparently during the time the Fire Department used the space (p. 45).  That red (P11) is then proposed by OPM for the restored brick dado.

EMCAC points out that  OPM is proposng use a later, non-original color for the dado, which may also be applicable to other areas, such the North Hall walls, discussed below (item 9).  The color of the chair rail should be coordinated with the color of the North Hall walls, and both need to take into account the use of this space as an exhibit/performance/meeting space.

OPM Proposals That Do Not Implement the Mosca Report.

Some of the recommendations from the Mosca Report are different from what is being proposed on the October 29 drawings.  In general, EMCAC recommends that the Mosca Report recommendations be implemented

5.  Window Frames, Sash, Door Frames and Jambs.

In the South Hall these were originally faux grained with a straight oak graining, using a yellowish white ground and a moderate dark brown glaze (p.28). The Report recommends this finish be replicated, with straight oak graining, using true colors in oil, rather than universal tinting colors, and provides a recommended 1887 example (p. 29) . The October 29 drawings propose a solid orange tan color (P16) for the interior trim as well as the new HVAC kiosks.

EMCAC supports the recommendation of the Mosca Report that faux wood graining be applied to the interior trim and recommends that consideration be given to applying that same finish to the HVAC kiosks.

6.  Cornices, Entablature, Chimneys and Acroteria

Originally, sand was mixed with paint to simulate the brownstone trim (p. 19). A sand finished moderate pinkish brown paint is recommended to simulate brownstone for both the South Hall (p. 30) and the North Hall (p. 46).  That would be color P17 on the October 29 drawings, the “brownstone” color that is being proposed for the interior of the doors. However, that is not the color that has been applied to the new South Hall cornices and other roof trim.  OPM has explained that when the South Hall roof work was completed, the paint analysis was not yet complete, but OPM understood its pre-fire color to be based on paint analysis work done by Mary Oehrlein in the 1970’s.  Hence, that pre-fire color was matched with the new paint.   The Mosca paint analysis identified a different  color: the “brownstone” color P17 for both the the cornice and exterior doors.  OPM’s October 29 drawings propose that the interior face of the doors be painted P17 and the exterior of the doors be painted P13 to match the present color of the cornice. As noted in the description of exterior doors above, P13 is a tan and does not replicate the brownstone masonry on the building.

Because a mistake was made a few months ago in the color applied to the cornices and roof trim, it makes no sense to extend that mistake to the exterior door color.  When it comes time to repaint the cornices and roof trim the “brownstone” color (P17) should be applied.

EMCAC supports the proposal to paint the cornice and roof trim on the North Hall the same color as the cornice and roof trim on the South Hall and suggests this consistency also has relevance to the exterior trim color, discussed below.

7.  Exterior Doors.

The exterior doors of the South Hall were originally a pinkish brown, referred to as the “brownstone” color  (p. 24, 25).  The Mosca Report recommends the ”brownstone” color (p. 32).  There was no original paint color to analyze for the North Hall exterior doors (p. 43), but the Report recommends white (p.46).

The October 29 drawings propose the same color for both the North Hall and the South Hall exterior doors.  But, as described above, it is color P13, the same tan color as the newly installed  South Hall cornices, acroteria and chimney, rather than the “brownstone” color P17 that is proposed for the interior of the doors.

EMCAC recognizes the importance of the “brownstone” color (P17) in the original color palette of the Market and supports the recommendation of the Mosca Reports that all of the exterior doors be painted that color.

Areas in Which EMCAC Disagrees with the Mosca Report and the OPM Proposals.

8.  Exterior Trim Colors.

A contrasting color from the color of the doors is proposed for the exterior window frames, muntins, sash, door frames and jambs (collectively “the trim”).  Different trim colors are specified for the North and South Halls, with a dark green (P02) for the South Hall and white (P07) for the North and Center Halls. This is based on the paint analysis, and represents the oldest, or original layers of paint (pp. 20-23, 46), and the paint analysis, standing alone, would justify such a scheme. But the South Hall was built in 1873 and the North and Center Halls in1908.  By1908, the South Hall trim paint was probably in need of being redone, and if not then, at least at some later time, was repainted to match the new white paint to the North and Center Hall trim.[3]

The Mosca Report (page 48) offers a rationale for the differences in colors between the North and South Halls:

Historic preservation has progressed through a series of philosophies that the Eastern Market confronts. At one point in the history of the movement, the finishes of 1908 would have been used for the entire structure, since it was the most resent major change. Similar examples can be cited, but it has often resulted in the tail wagging the dog. The Eastern Market is a perfect example to present both period finishes: the South Hall should be finished with the original finishes to construction in 1873, as indicated in the report for both the interior and the exterior. The North Hall should also be finished in the original finishes, dating to 1908. This will create a dynamism that will be very evident between the two parts of the building.

EMCAC does not disagree with the historic preservation considerations expressed above; however, there is a more important consideration at this point in the evolution of the market: we are entering an era of unified management.  By painting all of the exterior trim the same color, we can provide a visual cue that this is a single, unified market. Further, as is the case today, in the past, the same color was probably used for all of the exterior trim.

OPM has suggested that use of the different colors will provide a visual cue that the North and South Halls were built at different times.

EMCAC recommends that the same dark green (P02) be used for all of the exterior trim.

9.  North Hall Interior Walls.

The Mosca report explains that the North Hall plaster walls were originally white washed, then oil stabilized and painted yellow enamel and at some later time painted white (p.37). The Mosca report recommends the wall be painted white (p. 44). OPM’s October 29^th drawings also propose white (P10) for the walls.

Despite the fact that it was more stylish to use white in 1908 than it was in 1873, EMCAC questions the use of the bright white (P10) for most of the North Hall interior.  Just as tastes informs a change in color palettes overtime (1873 to 1908), a change of use can be of even greater importance in informing a change in color preference.  The 1998 legislatively required use of the interior as an exhibit/performance/meeting space did not exist when the North hall was built in 1908.   The bright, reflective white that is proposed is not appropriate for this exhibit/performance/meeting space.

The first paint applied to the North Hall walls was a yellow enamel (p. 37).  EMCAC recommends that yellow or some color other than the bright (P10) white would be a better color for the North Hall exhibit/performance space.  The chair rail color (item 4) needs to be coordinated with whatever color is used for the walls.

Ceilings and Trusses.

The Mosca Report does not address the South Hall Roof trusses, apparently because of the fire damage.  For the North Hall, the Mosca Report documents the shop applied finish (red lead, red oxide, graphite) and explains that after installation white, and later pale green were applied (p. 35), and recommends white (p. 44) for the trusses and roof deck (ceiling).

The October 29, 2008 drawings propose an off-white color (P04) for the South Hall ceiling, roof purlins and trusses, and a pale gray (P19) for the North Hall ceiling, purlins and trusses.  EMCAC objects for three reasons and recommends the following:

1.  EMCAC agrees that the ceilings and roof purlins should be the same color, and the colors specified are probably fine: however, the trusses should contrast with the ceiling and purlins.

2. The use of off-white or light gray for the ceiling and purlins makes sense, but on the truss elements those light colors will present a maintenance problem in terms of dust, cob web and particulate matter build-up, which would be less conspicuous if they were painted a darker contrasting color.

3. The June 2007 drawings A151a and A152 proposed a single color for the roof and purlins,  and two different colors for the truss elements, which EMCAC endorsed at page 11 of its June 13, 2007 Report.  EMCAC understands OPM is now proposing the single color for all of these elements because of the speed at which a single color can be applied, rather than the time it would take to apply separate colors to the ceiling, and truss elements.  To exchange an opportunity to visually document the importance of the truss system for a short-term time savings is not logical.

The uniqueness of the roof truss design together with their historic relevance in the evolution of roof support systems required a competent and well thought-out plan for their restoration that has been accomplished.  EMCAC has previously commended QEA and OPM for designing a restoration and replication solution that respects the historic significance of the trusses.   That recognition and respect for their historic significance needs to be communicated to the public, and EMCAC has previously recommended that can be accomplished by carefully selecting the colors to paint the truss elements with a color different from the ceiling (extracts from previous descriptions and recommendations appear in attachment C to this Report).

Mr. Jarboe asked about the period of significance for the paint colors, since the South Hall was constructed in 1873 and the North and Center Halls in1908, and whether that justified different exterior trim colors for the North and South Halls.

Motion: A motion was made by Mr. Layman and seconded by Ms. Eck to amend the Report and adopt recommendations 8 and 9 of the Mosca Report and (a) paint the North Hall trim white and the South Hall trim green, and (b) paint the North Hall interior wall a bright white, rather than a color more appropriate for its use as an exhibit/ performance space.  The motion failed by a vote of 2  to  7. Motion: Mr. Burger moved and Ms. Eck seconded a motion to amend the Report to recommend that the doors be painted to match the color of the existing cornice.  The Motion failed by a vote of 4 to 6.

A motion was made to accept the Report without amendment.  The motion passed by a vote of 8 to 1.

Streetscape

Mr. Edwards reported that all of the affected utilities, except Verizon (which has one manhole that would be affected), have now agreed to the use the manhole covers with the Eastern Market logo.

The Urban Forestry people have only recently been asked to provide recommendations about the types of trees for the North Plaza, 7^th Street, and the portion of North Carolina Avenue that adjoins the North Plaza, as well as their location and protection.  While DDOT is in charge of the trees, OPM has specified special event lights for the North Plaza and their locations need to be coordinated with the tree locations.  There is a further need to coordinate the location of the bicycle racks, a bench and trash cans with the location of the trees and lighting.  All of these elements of “street furniture” will affect outdoor vending, and a report is expected from the Tenants Council as well as Urban Forestry.

 7.    Tenant’s Council

The Tenant’s Council did not have a report, but Mr. Berman agreed that there is a need to coordinate the trees, the North Plaza lighting, and the street furniture.

8.  Treasurer’s Report

Mr. Gallo was absent.

 9.    New Business

Ms. Scheeder said that the next meeting date would be February 25.

 10.Adjournment

Motion: Mr. Glasgow moved/ Mr. Jarboe seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting.  It passed unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 pm.

EXTRACT FROM FEBRUARY 27, 2008 MINUTES

Pages 6-7

Hine Jr. High School

Ms Scheeder reported that, because Hine Jr. High School will be closing in June, it is important for EMCAC to act immediately.  She submitted the following report and resolution on the issue:

There have been previous discussions about the possible closing of Hine Jr. High, its impact on Eastern market and the potential future uses for the site.  It is now official that the school will be closed at the end of this school year. It is now important that EMCAC make its position known on plans for the site. ANC6B and the Capitol Hill Restoration Society have already passed resolutions concerning planning for future use. Both of their resolutions are attached to this document. I have drafted a resolution that is specific to the interests of Eastern Market but I would also ask you to consider endorsing the full range of objectives that are delineated in the CHRS resolution. Therefore I ask EMCAC to consider the following:

Motion: Ms. Opper-Weiner moved/Ms. Eck seconded the motion:

WHEREAS the Saturday and Sunday flea markets are an important part of the historic character and fabric of Eastern market and

WHEREAS, the flea markets are an important part of the overall business economy of the market and 7^th street

WHEREAS, the Hine property continues to be the site of Saturday and Sunday flea market vending

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that EMCAC calls on the District government to begin a community planning process for the future use of the Hine site

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any future use matches the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood, especially Eastern Market and that any development proposal should include:

• One or 2 levels of underground parking for residential and commercial weekend parking at eastern Market;
• Plan for an outdoor area for craft vendors, food vendors and flea market;
• and endorses the objectives set forth by the Capitol Hill Restoration Society.

The motion passed 8-2, with Mr. Burger and Mr. Layman in opposition.