Arlington County and VDOT’s CC2DCA Study to build a new bike and pedestrian bridge between Crystal City and National Airport has released two alternatives to advance to a National Environmental Policy Act study. Public comment is open until November 6 and can be provided at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CC2DCA_Feedback3_English

Arlington and VDOT’s preferred alternative is 7D. This alternative would provide a direct connection between a future southern VRE platform entrance and the 2nd Floor of DCA. It also features an arched bridge over the George Washington Memorial Parkway with a ramp connecting to the Mount Vernon Trail.

Alternative 7D contains two options for the trail connection. The difference between the options is whether the connection is entirely on GWMP land or is partially on land owned by DCA. The concepts above are not final designs. Although a roundabout is depicted, the design is yet to be determined. This concept shows a realignment of the trail around the foundation of the arched bridge. The arched bridge is not required and could be a girder bridge which would allow the trail to remain straight underneath the bridge.

Feedback is open until November 6th. The Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail are supporting Alternative 7D. We area also requesting that a girder bridge be used to prevent a blind curve from being created and maintaining a wider buffer between the trail and the Parkway. You can provide your comment at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CC2DCA_Feedback3_English

The Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail needs your help to continue improving the trail. Sign up for a volunteer trail improvement event or Donate to Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail to help us purchase tools and supplies.