The Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C., transports 70,000 vehicles daily over the Anacostia River, and officials released a design for the bridge's replacement Thursday.
Construction begins at year’s end on the $441 million project, which will also rebuild the Suitland Parkway/Interstate 295 interchange. In addition, it will create new traffic ovals east of the river, connecting South Capitol Street, Suitland Parkway and Anacostia Drive; and west of the river, connecting South Capitol Street, Potomac Avenue and Q Street.
The 68-year-old bridge’s replacement, years in the making, is scheduled to open in March 2021. Its design features four pedestrian overlooks, three above-deck arches and two piers that will appear to float in the river.
The new bridge will be built roughly 100 ft away from the existing one. After its completion, the eight-month demolition begins on the old bridge.
The project will employ 200 D.C. residents, and is part of the 30-year, $10 billion Anacostia Waterfront Initiative Program.
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Source: WTOP
