Starting Friday, July 6th, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will completely close all lanes in both directions on the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge (also known as the South Capitol Street Bridge) to motorists and pedestrians. The bridge is scheduled to remain closed for two months - through July and August - for a major renovation. The bridge will be repaved, spruced up and the elevated northern approach will be lowered to improve accessibility and mobility.
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During the Douglass Bridge closure, the 11th Street Bridges will serve as
the main detour routes for motorists.
- Northbound drivers will follow signed detours to the I-295/11th Street Bridge providing direct access into
D.C.
- Southbound drivers will follow signed detours to the Southeast Freeway to the 11th Street Bridge.
Due to the added volume on the 11th Street Bridges, drivers should expect delays and plan accordingly. Morning
commutes may take an additional 20 minutes and afternoon commutes could
take between 20-30 additional minutes.
Bicyclists and pedestrians will be directed through the Anacostia Park, located east of the Anacostia River, and then to the 11th Street Bridges. Bicyclist and pedestrian access to the southwest area will be via M Street, SW to Half Street, SW and Eye Streets, SW and SE.
To avoid the stress of driving altogether during the bridge closure, drivers
are urged to take Metro rail, bus or an organized van- or carpool. Drivers
considering Metro rail or bus as a commute alternative should be aware of the
following helpful options:
- Available commuter parking exists at the Anacostia Metrorail Station and RFK Stadium Lot – both of which offer easy access to Metro rail.
- Reduced rates are being offered on Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metrobus Routes that travel through the affected area.
- Increased rail capacity is available on the Green Line, which travels through the affected area, by WMATA’s recent addition of rail cars.
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