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[[underlined]]Quadrangle Development[[/underlined]]

The Secretary noted that the 4.2 acres to be developed as the Quadrangle where the residue of the "Smithsonian Park" originally allotted to the Institution in the 1846 statute. He mentioned that the soil was particularly well suited for excavation. This below-grade instruction would be appropriate for a number of space requirements the Institution now has in the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, the Resident and National Associates Programs, and in kindred activities.

The Secretary then describe the new Center for Eastern Art, an adjunct to the Freer Gallery, and the new building for the Museum of African Art, which he described as a window on the Mall for the black nations of the world and for a vital part of the American heritage. These two pavilions fronting Independence Avenue will provide a sense of quiet for the public, a well defined inner mini-park of the type which is so rare in Washington.

Mr. Ripley noted that the pace of inflation has meant that it will be difficult to construct the entire project, as now planned, for the projected $50 million. A conscientious effort will be made to effect savings through reduced ceiling heights and other reconfigurations in order to stay under the estimate, but it is conceivable that the Smithsonian may still need more capital than originally projected.

The Secretary highlighted the following report, which had been distributed in advance of the meeting.

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