U.S. BOTANIC GARDEN

Key Accomplishments in FY 2014

Collaborated on SITES v2 Release

The jurisdiction welcomed the Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES) v2 release. The SITES v2 Rating System and Reference Guide provides best practices and tools for creating and evaluating sustainable landscapes. The USBG collaborated with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and the American Society of Landscape Architects on the release.

Began Interpretive Master Plan Update

The jurisdiction began its Interpretive Master Plan update. The current plan lays out the educational objectives of the Conservatory’s rooms and outside gardens. A multi-division team will re-work the plan to reflect current Conservatory design and newer USBG elements—such as the Rain Garden.

Supported Resource Conservation

The jurisdiction composted over 860,000 pounds of organic waste and recycled over 80,000 pounds of cardboard, bottles, cans, paper and plastic. The USBG also integrated resource conservation into exhibits and public programming. For example, the 2014 Orchid Show utilized re-usable central hanging features and water jets.

The USBG led a first-of-its kind effort to gather agriculture and education experts from across the country to determine priorities for education about the food system in botanic gardens.

What’s Next? FY 2015 Priorities

Initiate Stone Preservation and Roof Replacement

The jurisdiction will begin work on the Conservatory front facade and roof replacement project. The project will repair worn stones and address deterioration issues which can cause water infiltration and falling stone fragments.

Begin Bartholdi Park Renovation

The USBG will renovate Bartholdi Park to enhance accessibility and improve sustainability. The project is targeted for completion in Spring 2016 and includes SITES v2 certification.

U.S. CAPITOL VISITOR CENTER

Key Accomplishments in FY 2014

Enhanced the Visitor Experience The jurisdiction enhanced its operations to provide an exceptional Capitol tour experience. These enhancements included offering a new War of 1812 tour, expanding the Exhibition Hall Encounters Program, offering two mobile apps and delivering more special programs for students.

Two new mobile Apps provide a U.S. Capitol Visitor Guide and a guide to the Capitol’s National Statuary Hall Collection.

Expanded Student Educational Programs The jurisdiction expanded the second season of educational student programs. More than 700 students attended one of two offerings: “Art Appreciators: The Art and Architecture of the Capitol” and “Environment Matters: How Does a Bill Become Law?” The jurisdiction also developed a tour specifically for middle-school students focused on civics education.

Reinforced a Culture of Accountability The CVC completed several initiatives to empower the work-force, foster innovation and develop a culture of accountability. These include revamping the employee onboarding program, offering CEO of Visitor Services-hosted feedback sessions and developing a Leadership Development Program.

What’s Next? FY 2015 Priorities

Implement Business Process Improvements

The CVC will implement a new advance reservation system. An efficient, reliable and responsive system is critical to accommodating tour requests. The CVC will also complete a top-to-bottom business process review to streamline gift shop operations.

Enhance Employee Welfare

The jurisdiction will address priorites identified in employee focus groups and surveys, particularly in the areas of fairness, trust and accountability. The CVC will address these challenges in a manner that fosters a cohesive team approach.