Phase 1 of I-395/3rd Street Tunnel Project set to begin February 24

(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Property Group Partners (PGP), the developer of Capital Crossing, announced today the initial phase of work that will prepare the I-395 highway for the future construction of the extended 3rd Street Tunnel. This Phase 1 work is scheduled to start on Tuesday, February 24 and last until August. The initial work will have no significant impact on traffic during daytime hours. Minor traffic impacts, which will be primarily overnight, will occur to accommodate this enabling work.

“After last year’s request to consider a complete closure of I-395, DDOT and PGP are pleased to have found a way to permit work to take place while keeping all lanes open during the day. Further studies and mitigation measures will be developed over the coming months to ensure that every reasonable step will be taken to minimize traffic impacts of future phases of construction,” said DDOT Acting Director Leif Dormsjo. 

Motorists should anticipate delays during this first phase due to periodic lane and ramp closures at night and one permanent ramp closure (I-395 3rd Street off-ramp). This phase of the construction project will take approximately five to six months to complete, weather permitting. 

“I am pleased that this significant project - and the local jobs that come with it - is moving forward,” said Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Brian Kenner. “Mayor Bowser directed DDOT to work with the developer to take a more gradual approach to help minimize the impact on local and regional residents and businesses. This notice regarding the Phase 1 traffic advisories is a good start. I am confident the District and the development team will continue to work to minimize traffic delays and prepare motorists for longer term lane restrictions as the project is built.”

Motorists can anticipate the following traffic impacts starting February 24, 2015:

• The I-395 3rd Street off-ramp will be closed permanently. Vehicle parking will not be allowed on the ramp, and motorists should seek alternative routes.
• Periodically, the I-395 travel lanes will be reduced to a single lane of traffic from 11 pm to 5 am; and on weekends from midnight to 7 am. 
• The I-395 3rd Street on-ramp will close on weekdays from midnight to 5 am; and on weekends from midnight to 8 am. Traffic will be diverted to 3rd and D Street on-ramp.
• The northbound off-ramp at 2nd Street, NW, will remain open.

• Motorists will experience delays at the following intersections:
  • New York Avenue and I-395 southbound
  • New York Avenue and 4th Street, NW
  • New York and New Jersey Avenue, NW
  • I-395 on-ramp at 3rd and D Street

Truck traffic must follow truck detours and adhere to over-height restrictions. Traffic on northbound and southbound I-395 will experience slower speeds through the work zones. No parking restrictions are anticipated. 

Motorists are urged to stay alert and use caution when traveling through the work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in work zones. Motorists are also advised to plan for additional travel time, use alternate routes or seek alternate means of transportation, as traffic delays are likely to occur. Pedestrians and bicyclists should pay attention to the changing traffic patterns as well.

For additional details, please contact the project’s public outreach office at (202) 719-0196.

For more information about the project, visit www.3rdsttunnel.com.

The mission of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is to enhance the quality of life for District residents and visitors by ensuring that people, goods, and information move efficiently and safely with minimal adverse impact on residents and the environment. Follow us on Twitter; like us on Facebook and visit the website at www.ddot.dc.gov. Visit goDCgo.com for more information on transportation options in the District.