Reviving the National Mall

Maintenance has been deferred for so long on the Mall that even a no-action plan still requires more than $400 million worth of work.

"Besides the baseline 'no-action' plan, the four others would cost between $500 million and $700 million and all share such features as restoring the Ulysses S. Grant memorial and performing basic maintenance on the grounds. Beyond that, each alternative emphasizes a different primary role for the Mall.

One version gives priority to the area's historic landmark status, restoring vistas by removing its carousel and also the south ramp cloverleaf around the Lincoln Memorial. Another alternative focuses instead on the potential of the Mall to serve as a central gathering place for demonstrations and festivals."