NHM Site Legislation Introduced In Congress
Bill Follows Agreement with Key Federal Agency

Moshe Safdie's conceptual thinking suggests an open and unified exterior that is well-suited for the proposed 12th and Independence Avenue location.

A significant step forward in the National Health Museum's journey from concept to landmark took place on July 29, when Congressional supporters introduced legislation to provide an outstanding location for its new facility in Washington, DC. H.R. 3630, The National Health Museum Act of 2005, would direct the transfer of property at Independence Avenue and 12th Street, SW, to NHM. The bill authorizes a general agreement the Museum has already reached to acquire the property from its owner, the federal General Services Administration (GSA).

A strong bi-partisan Congressional coalition is supporting the legislation, led by Congressman Phil Gingrey, MD, (R-GA) who introduced it in the House of Representatives. Original cosponsors of the bill include Congresswoman Lois Capps, RN, (D-CA) and Congressman Charlie Norwood, DDS (R-GA). Action on the legislation is expected in early fall, when Congress returns from its summer recess.

"It has everything," said NHM President Mark Dunham about the property. "It is located at the Smithsonian Metro station within two blocks of Smithsonian museums that attract more than 20 million visitors annually. It has wonderful access. It can support a large museum, and it will give visitors spectacular vistas of Washington's greatest landmarks.

"We have worked closely with the General Services Administration and our many backers in Congress to craft an agreement that provides a true "win-win" for the Museum, the American people and the federal government," said Dunham. "Our supporters believe the prospects for passage of the legislation this year are excellent."

The site acquisition process is keeping pace with the progress of NHM's architectural design team led by world-renowned Moshe Safdie, whose recent commissions include the new Salt Lake City Public Library as well as the conceptual design for the new US Institute of Peace in Washington. Moshe's conceptual design for the National health Museum is shown here.

This concept view from Moshe Safdie looks upwards through the Museum's central glass spine.

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