Highest and best use of Federal Land?

In February, Steve Morris wrote a letter to the editor of the Post, "In the District, Lots of Wasted Opportunity," about the underutilization of prime land around Congressional buildings for parking lots. I've been meaning to take photos for some time. A few weekends ago they were repainting the lines of the lot by the Hart and Dirksen buildings.

Plus, free parking for Congress workers encourages pro-automobility behaviors. I know of people who live a few blocks from the Capitol who drive because they have free parking...