In addition to the planning under way for I-66 outside the Beltway that might result in an extended Custis Trail, VDOT is also making plans for changes to I-66 inside the Beltway. There are two meetings on this coming up this month.
- June 16, 7 to 9 p.m., with the VDOT presentation at 7:30, at Henderson Middle School cafeteria, 7130 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.
- June 17, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with the VDOT presentation at 7 p.m., Arlington Central Library, 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington.
While not the primary objective of the project, improving bicycling in the area is a goal of the "multimodal" improvements. A 2012 review noted bottlenecks on the W&OD and Custis Trails and limitations/gaps in the bike/ped network. The earlier multimodal study identified "approximately 60 bicycle and pedestrian improvements" to recommend in the corridor. From the presentation in March, the plan is to:
Coordinate with local jurisdictions to group bicycle and pedestrian improvements that:
- Impact bicycling and walking for the largest number of people
- Accommodate longer distance commute trips along 66
- Provide access to Metrorail and bus stops
- Increase the utility and attractiveness of bicycling and walking
Improvements may include:
- On-road bicycle facilities
- New or improved off-road paths
- Intersection improvements to enhance crossing safety
It's not looking good for an extension of the Custis Trail, at least right outside the Beltway in Dunn Loring. A group of parents and neighbors around Stenwood Elementary in Dunn Loring are organizing against a bike lane and a widening of I-66. We all know what will be cut from the plans.
Posted by: Dave | June 11, 2015 at 12:35 PM