(Washington, DC) – The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) begins work this week on the second phase of the Connecticut Avenue Streetscape project. The project will include the construction of a raised median on Connecticut Avenue between Jefferson Place and L Street, NW, picking up where the first phase left off. Phase I, completed last summer, included the construction of a raised median between K and L Streets. The median is landscaped and maintained by the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID).

The goal is to enhance pedestrian safety on this heavily traveled avenue and improve the appearance of the retail corridor. The new 12 foot wide median will serve as a safe area for pedestrians to pause when crossing the broad avenue. Connecticut Avenue is one of DC’s most highly traveled vehicular thoroughfares with more than 24,100 cars on the downtown portion of the street each day.

In addition to the new median, the project will:

• Remove the existing concrete sidewalk and replace with new concrete pavers
• Install structural soil under sidewalk paving between tree boxes
• Remove existing and Install new metal tree box fences
• Plant trees and shrubs
• Install bicycle racks
• Adjust WMATA shafts to new grades
• Provide electric power service for median
• Provide irrigation and water service
• Mill and Resurface roadway
• Install new pavement markings and traffic signs

It is anticipated that the work will take 240 calendar days. The Contractor is permitted to work from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday through Friday, although work can be allowed beyond these times with prior notice and approval.

72 hour notifications will be provided to all businesses, residences, and stakeholders in this corridor prior to any impacts on traffic flow or parking. When parking is impacted signage will be placed in the blocks where the work is being conducted and notice will be distributed to all stakeholders who reside on the corridor or conduct business in the corridor. At least 1 lane of traffic in each direction, and access to businesses on the corridor, will be maintained at all times.

Public Meetings will be scheduled during the construction period in partnership with the Golden Triangle BID to provide updates on the progress of the project. For more information please contact Monica Ray at (202) 563-5033 or by email at monica@thecsmi.com.