Contact (Media Only): Erik Linden (202) 671-2004 and Karyn LeBlanc (202) 671-3490

As part of this summer’s Douglass Bridge “Extreme Makeover,” a 200-foot segment of the Frederick Douglass Bridge’s elevated northern approach will be lowered by just over four feet. The bridge must be lowered very slowly—coming down by approximately two inches per hour.

Just two weeks into construction, the Douglass Bridge makeover already is making highly visible progress.  Crews have removed the old concrete deck, demolished the northernmost portion of the bridge, and installed equipment for the bridge lowering operation.  Ultimately, the lowered portion of the bridge will become an at-grade roadway with a new intersection at South Capitol Street and Potomac Avenue.  This work and other major renovations are being done to improve the bridge’s mobility and accessibility.

What		Photo Opportunities of Frederick Douglass Bridge Lowering The entire operation, including preparatory work and the lowering process, is expected to take 24 hours from start to finish. Opportunities: Up-close view of the Douglass Bridge being lowered by four feet and overall progress on the bridge’s renovation. Interviews with DDOT officials on site.
When		Thursday, July 19, 2007 (Media invited for availability) 8:00–10:00 am:  Bridge lowering process begins with crews “cutting” the bridge’s support columns.  At that point the bridge deck will be supported and lowered by more than 35 hydraulic jacks—four jacks will be placed at each support pier. 3:00–5:00 pm:  Mid-day progress shot of bridge lowering. Showing visible difference between current and ultimate positions.
Where		Underneath the Frederick Douglass Bridge, near the corner of Potomac Avenue and Q Streets, SW. Driving Directions From M Street, Southwest: Take Half Street, Southwest Cross over Potomac Avenue Left at R Street, directly toward the construction work site. Drive directly into fenced-in entrance on South Capitol Street. Media set up at outer edge of work site. Note: This is an active construction site.  Reporters and camera crews should be dressed appropriately (long pants and hard soled shoes).
RSVP		Please confirm attendance with Erik Linden at erik.linden@dc.gov