The Landscape Architect’s Guide to

Benjamin Banneker Park

Your Guide

Named for Benjamin Banneker, this memorial park comprises the terminus of L'Enfant Plaza. The 200-foot wide elliptical park offers views to the south to the D.C. Waterfront and opens up to a wide grassy expanse. The circular plaza at the top forms a conical central water feature of more than 30 feet in height. The park's concentric rings of London plane trees, low concrete walls, and pervious pavement make this park a respite from the city. The original park, designed by Modern landscape architect Dan Kiley and constructed in 1967, has been subjected to numerous renovation discussions in an attempt to breathe additional life into the park.

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The South Terminus

The south terminus of L'Enfant Plaza is the terminus of 10th Street SW as a grand boulevard connecting the Smithsonian Castle to the Southwest Waterfront.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa banneker2_ben

Interpretive Signs

Interpretive signs are included in the park and include information on the life and achievements of Benjamin Banneker.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa banneker3

The Fountain

The multi-tiered fountain provides an audible background in addition to visual interest. The white noise of the fountain masks traffic from nearby surface streets and interstate traffic. A wide bench at the base of the fountain provides seating for the park.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa banneker4

Permeable Pavers

Permeable pavers are arranged in mid-sized fans. The textured pavers are divided by strips of contrasting asphalt and granite pavers laid in a radial pattern.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa banneker5

Large Jets

Several large jets form the basis for the fountain that is ringed by London Plane trees that complement the park design.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa banneker7_edited

A View of the Fountain

The water feature's liveliness can be seen from the surrounding lawn and streets.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa banneker8

Southwest Eco-District Plans

In 2012, the National Capital Planning Commision (NCPC) revealed plans it has been developing with a host of U.S. government agencies to transform much of L'Enfant into the new Southwest Eco-District, a highly sustainable community. The plan includes a completely redesigned Benjamin Banneker Park that will be more accessible to waterfront communities and feature the most innovative sustainable landscape design practices.

Image: National Capital Planning Commission / ZGF Architects