Union Station wants a lighting makeover for its facade
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Union Station could get temporary ceremonial colors. Image: Courtesy Union Station's NCPC filing; architect: Antunovich Associates
Union Station wants a literal glow-up — nighttime lights outside, brighter bulbs inside.
The big picture: The train station's CEO has wanted to work with the Trump administration on realizing its longterm modernization project, and a flashier entrance for D.C.'s front door might appeal to the president's sensibilities.
State of play: Union Station leaders want to light up the length of its façade on a grand scale, a la the Kennedy Center, with the option for temporary ceremonial colors like red, white and blue.
- Inside, new light fixtures and upgrades would be made all over, including in the Main Hall, atriums and retail concourse.
- Station reps say the looksmaxxing would also boost public safety — think: illuminated arches and sidewalk and drop-off areas.
Flashback: Union Station had several rough years around the pandemic, and its leadership has been trying to restore its reputation and bring back neighborhood foot traffic.
Between the lines: Any tweaks to a historic building in D.C. go through plenty of bureaucracy. This one will need approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, which you may have heard is also looking at the Commanders stadium, the White House ballroom and potentially other pet projects of the president's.
- The proposal has gone through four versions in nine months. Reps for Union Station will return to the commission next Thursday.
