National Zoological Park
Olmsted Walk, Phase III

Washington DC
1986-1988

Olmsted Walk is the major pedestrian promenade that winds its way through the National Zoo, from Connecticut Avenue to Rock Creek Parkway. The longest and last segment of this Walk extends from the Administration Building at the Connecticut Avenue entry to the Great Ape House at the center of the Park: a 30’ wide asphalt block swathe descending 90’ in 2050 linear feet. Grading for accessibility and determining alignment in relation to animal exhibits, Panda Plaza and a parking lot were the major design challenges for this segment. Zoo visitors today are unaware of the challenges as they enjoy its sculptures, furnishings, signage and thematic plantings. DDA Principal, Nancy W. Denig, was Project Landscape Architect for this $2.5 million work, in charge of all aspects of planning and design.