Planning the National Capital: Objectives and Problems of Attainment

The nation's capital is faced with problems of growth and expansion that are typical of other urban areas; but the city planners of Washington, D. C., face one special problem that is predominantly political in nature. The District of Columbia is under federal control, whereas the suburbs on which the capital is encroaching are under the jurisdiction of the neighboring states of Maryland and Virginia.

Legislation enacted on a federal and state level to deal with the problem is discussed in this paper. The shortcomings of this legislation are also presented, with proposed new laws designed to overcome such limitations. Cooperation between the existing authorities has been generally good, but progress is slow, and many urgent needs are faced by the city authorities. Some difficulties encountered under the existing plan of multiple authority are presented.<BR>An overall financial and construction agency is suggested as a means of expediting, the execution of plans, financing and construction of needed public works for the capital; and the organization and operation of this agency are outlined.