MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
held Thursday, August 20, 1998,
for the purpose of meeting with representatives of the National Park Service regarding Greenbelt park and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (NPS).

The meeting began at 8:01 p.m. It was held in the Council Room of the Municipal Building.

PRESENT WERE: Council members Edward V.J. Putens, Rodney M. Roberts, Alan Turnbull Thomas X. White and Mayor Judith F. Davis.

STAFF PRESENT WERE: Michael P. McLaughlin, City Manager and David E. Moran, City Clerk

ALSO PRESENT WERE: John Hale, Fred Cunningham, Bob Hansen and Tony King, National Park Service; Robert Crecco, Westchester Park Citizens Association; Virginia Beauchamp, Greenbelt News Review and Karl Hille, The Gazette

Mr. King, Maintenance Supervisor, reported on the status of the repairs on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway bridge over the Beltway. Mr. Putens suggested sending a letter to the SHA requesting that they work with NPS to get the bridge repaired and copy the letter to Senator Green.

The next issue discussed was stabilization of the property along Kenilworth Avenue. Mr. Hale stated that NPS was committed to controlling the soil erosion on park property. He reported that a permit was still needed and the expectation was that it would start this month. He believed the project would take 5-6 months. In response to a questions from Council, NPS personnel indicated that the entrance street to Westchester Park would be cleaned and flushed if necessary and any damage to the roadway would also be repaired. Mayor Davis suggested that NPS keep both the City and Westchester Park informed about the progress of the work.

Mr. Hale indicated that NPS would like to acquire the land, but there was nothing currently under consideration. Mr. Crecco believed there were wetlands on the Jaeger tract. Mr. Roberts believed acquisition would be beneficial and indicated the city would help. Mr. Turnbull suggested that the NPS land office begin working on it. Mr. Crecco suggested that NPS personnel attend a meeting of the Westchester Park Association on September 2 to brief their members. Mr. Putens believed there might be a creative way to get the property, perhaps using city condemnation powers. Ms. Davis suggested that the issue be referred to Mr. Manzi.

Regarding the issue of monopoles, Mr. Hale stated that monopoles are a visual intrusion and that NPS did not want the poles along the Parkway or even on adjoining properties.

Discussion turned to providing transportation to park areas. Council suggested a shuttle bus option. Mr. Putens suggested the possibility of a joint venture with the city. Mr. Turnbull suggested a cooperative venture with nearby hotels. Ms. Davis noted that the Park might want to promote the city=s Museum. Mr. McLaughlin briefed the park representatives on the Anacostia Heritage Area.

Mr. Hale reported that Gypsy Moths were not a significant problem. He also noted the presence of Beavers particularly on the East tract. There was discussion regarding mountain biking in the East tract.

Mr. Hale indicated that they wanted to work closely with the city and was encouraged by the city's support.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
David E. Moran
City Clerk

City of Greenbelt, Maryland
City Offices, 25 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: 301-474-8000 FAX: 301-441-8248