The REACH, at The Kennedy Center

The entire southern end of the Kennedy Center grounds needed to be reworked to accommodate the REACH. This required removing a portion of the existing parking garage, changing vehicular access to the garage and Rock Creek Parkway, providing a turnaround loop below grade for charter buses, Metrobuses, and tractor-trailers, and identifying a cross-site path for pedestrians and cyclists. This was done while negotiating significant elevation change, access to a central stormwater facility, and the structural constraints of the distinct architecture above. Our efforts included data collection and operational analyses to support the design, drop-off and bus/service area maneuverability analyses, signage recommendations, parking area design, traffic signal design, and more.

The REACH hosts many performances, requiring an effective and efficient approach and departure routes for passenger cars and buses, parking access points, and pick-up/drop-off locations. Data collection during a typical peak time of performance was necessary to determine recommendations for improving service. We developed vehicle entry and exit access solutions, internal traffic flow on each floor, parking geometrics, and pedestrian routes and facilities. The Gorove Slade team prepared signing and marking plans for the new and modified areas of the parking garage and the signing and marking plans for the bus/service area and vehicular drop-off portions. We also provided input on the wayfinding package for the garage complex.

Although the REACH may be one of D.C.’s newest cultural landmarks, the project draws upon the rich history of the Kennedy Center and surrounding areas to welcome guests with stunning views and unforgettable arts and culture. Through our work, Gorove Slade makes getting to the REACH a safe and seamless part of the overall experience.