Dupont Underground
Dupont Underground
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Publication or External Link
Date
2013
Authors
Fox, Kristen Ashley
Advisor
Noonan, Peter
Citation
DRUM DOI
Abstract
The construction and subsequent abandonment of the streetcar tunnels below Dupont Circle in Washington D.C. speaks volumes about our culture and how we choose to treat our resources. The current tension regarding the fate of the site is an opportunity to re-evaluate the possible uses for the structure. This thesis will explore the roles of public space, historic preservation, and civic discourse in the urban environment. Topics of focus include: overcoming barriers to reuse, analyzing abandonment and desire, and questioning existing notions of authenticity.