Preservationists are expressing concerns about the potential damage to historic murals during the upcoming Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C. Mary Okin, assistant director of the Living New Deal, a nonprofit that documents New Deal-era history and public works, has written to the General Services Administration (GSA) to express her concerns.
Historic Murals at Risk
Okin is particularly concerned about two murals, ‘Security of the Family’ and ‘The Wealth of the Nation’, which celebrate American prosperity and financial security as a result of Social Security and the New Deal. She has asked the GSA to take additional steps to protect these areas, including the installation of sound and vibration barriers.
The GSA has reviewed the route and does not expect the nearby areas to be affected. However, the National Gallery of Art has conducted a vibration study and is taking measures to ensure the safety of its staff, visitors, collection, and facilities during the race.
The Smithsonian has also announced modifications at some museums during the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, including limited access to certain areas and the requirement of a same-day museum pass for visitors.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.