Douglas Street Pedestrian Bridge will aid ease of movement and improve safety in Ward 7. Mayor Bowser and District Department of Transportation (DDOT) launched the bridge yesterday, July 25, as community members around rejoiced.
The bridge, which cost $17 million, spans DC Interstate-295 and will benefit residents of Mayfair, Parkside, Eastland Gardens, and neighborhoods around the Deanwood Metro Station. It replaces a deteriorating 1950s-era structure with modern features, including enhanced LED lighting, wider ADA-compliant access ramps, and improved stormwater management facilities.
Backed by federal funding, Mayor Bowser lauded the project as a successful example of federal collaboration, expressing appreciation for the Biden-Harris Administration’s support and looking forward to future federally-funded initiatives.
“The new Douglas Street Pedestrian Bridge is another example of how we can work with the federal government to upgrade our infrastructure and build more connected communities,” said Mayor Bowser. “We’re grateful for the support of the Biden-Harris Administration, and we look forward to getting more federal dollars out the door and into projects that help us build safer, more accessible, and more sustainable communities.”
DDOT Acting Director Sharon Kershbaum emphasized the bridge’s role in maintaining community connectivity and creating safer pathways for walking, biking, and commuting. She also highlighted the forthcoming completion of the Lane Place Bridge reconstruction as part of ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and multimodal transportation options across all wards.
This bridge is part of a broader initiative under Mayor Bowser’s leadership to utilize federal investments for infrastructure improvements. Recent projects include $34 million for East Capitol Street safety and mobility enhancements, $25 million for the New York Avenue Bridge and Lincoln Connector Trail Project, $15 million for the Benning Road Reconstruction and Streetcar Project, $10 million for the South Capitol Street Trail, $20 million for the Wheeler Road Multimodal Safety & Access Project, and $6.5 million for the Arboretum Bridge and Kenilworth Park South Trail.
These investments collectively demonstrate the District’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, safety, and sustainability across Washington, D.C.’s transportation network.
