The Hoffman-Boston Connector is a planned trail that would add another bicycle/pedestrian connection across I-395. The trail would run adjacent to the Hoffman-Boston School and connect Queen Street west of I-395 to Army-Navy Drive on the east side. The trail was first proposed in 1990 and a study was done in 2003 at which point the Army-Navy Country Club (from which easements are needed) seemed more open to the idea of the trail. The land is very steep so, to make it ADA compliant, they would need to put in a ramp or switchback or even some sort of elevator. These options may also require acquiring private land. At one point the trail, which is only about 1600 feet long, was to be finished in 2007. But it wasn't. And then in 2008 it was canceled.
But last May the news was better
"amazingly, someone has breathed new life into this," David [Patton of Arlington County] said, noting an apparent openness on the part of the Army-Navy Country Club to discuss the project.
The ANCC, it turns out wants to build a new clubhouse, and the clubhouse would be larger than they have the right to build. So, they have to get a waiver for it. As I understand it, their desire for such a waiver is the source of the openness and Arlington is asking for the easement as a concession for the waiver. This is such a critical and simple connection that I hope they can all work it out.
This would be INCREDIBLE. I live east of the Berlin Wall in this area, and having a better connection to the Columbia Pike area would be wonderful. Bravo to Arlington County for so appropriately using their leverage.
Posted by: darren | April 29, 2010 at 01:47 PM
Darren, if you think so, you should write the Arlington County Board and let them know. There is some resistance from the ANCC and it would be nice for the board to have support from the community.
Posted by: washcycle | April 29, 2010 at 03:32 PM
Quite agreed, Washcycle. I'd point out that there is resistance from *some* of the ANCC membership. My understanding of the situation (which is admittedly limited) is that the County and ANCC are making agreeable progress.
Posted by: MB | April 29, 2010 at 04:25 PM
Done! Now getting my hopes up for a low-stress bikeride to the Drafthouse.
Posted by: darren | April 29, 2010 at 07:38 PM