The Middle Anacostia River Crossing Study determined that in order to improve connectivity across the Anacostia, the 11th Street Bridges would have to be completed.
Southbound motorists on the Anacostia Freeway cannot access the bridges; nor can motorists on the bridges go north onto the Freeway. The ramps to make these connections do not exist. This results in commuter traffic to and from the north driving through neighborhood streets to get to their destinations.
Besides helping motorists, one of the objectives is to improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities on the bridges.
Narrow shoulders and sidewalks currently limit the potential for bikes and pedestrians to cross the Anacostia River and access the recreational facilities along both its banks. The project will provide safe and efficient connections to these planned facilities.
The bridges serve as major connections on the ART as it's designed now, and might serve to connect to a trail along a restored Virginia Avenue or the Shepherd Industrial Spur right-of-way.
DDOT is having two meetings next week to discuss the Environmental Impact Statement for this project.
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