(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) today announced a solicitation of bids for the construction of a pedestrian/bicycle bridge over the CSX railroad tracks at the Rhode Island Avenue Metro Station. The bridge links to the Metropolitan Branch Trail and will be a safe passageway for community members who currently use the Rhode Island Avenue underpass, which is narrow and dark, or who cross the active railroad tracks illegally.

Combined with last year’s completion of the Metropolitan Branch Trail, from New York Avenue to Franklin Street, the bridge will also increase access to transit and recreation for thousands of residents. The truss bridge is designed in the style of an old railroad bridge. The design is the result of unprecedented cooperation among numerous stakeholders including DDOT, WMATA, CSX, utility companies and the community. Following award of a construction contract, work could start sometime next year.

Bids are due December 5, 2011. Bid documents are available at the OCP Bid Room on the 3rd floor of the Reeves Center at 2000 14th Street, NW. For procurement information contact Bernetha Armwood at (202) 671-1563. For technical information contact Mr. Mohamed Dahir at (202) 671-4617.

The Metropolitan Branch Trail is a multi-use trail that runs from Union to Silver Spring, linking people to jobs, schools, stores and mass transit. Three miles of the planned trail have been completed to date.