(Washington, DC) After careful consideration and in response to the needs of the community, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has determined that bicyclists may use the temporary bridge that is located over Soapstone Creek on Broad Branch Road, NW between Brandywine and Ridge Roads.

This temporary one-lane bridge was installed to address an emergency situation that was caused by the collapsing of the culvert along this stretch.

The temporary bridge will only allow for travel in one direction at a time. In addition, to reduce the risks of conflicts, DDOT’s traffic plan includes a specific schedule for northbound and southbound travel across the bridge during the morning and evening rush hours. At all other times, north and southbound traffic will have to share use of the bridge.

It is important that drivers and cyclists use extra caution when crossing the bridge. All users are reminded to obey the traffic control signs located along the route within this work zone.

There are no pedestrian facilities on the temporary bridge, on the road or within this work zone. DDOT advises pedestrians to use extra caution when walking within this work zone. DC Law requires that, in the absence of a sidewalk, pedestrians walk on the left side of the roadway or shoulder facing traffic.

DDOT will remove the ‘No Pedestrians / No Bikes’ signs and has informed the on-site traffic control officers of the change.

By late July, DDOT will need to remove the temporary bridge to begin replacing the culvert that collapsed in April. DDOT anticipates the construction will take approximately 30 days to complete and plans to permanently reopen Broad Branch Road by mid September.