Contact (Media Only): Erik Linden (202) 671-2004

(Washington, DC) Michelle L. Pourciau, Director of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) today joined local and federal officials, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners (ANCs) and other residents for a ribbon cutting on the new Taylor Street Bridge in Northeast.

“Today’s celebration is about more than just a bridge,” said Pourciau. “It’s about investing in Ward 5. It’s about the symbolism of a new, revitalized bridge in the District of Columbia—one that we can all be proud of. Today, I’m thrilled to say we have a new bridge that includes new approach roadways and a new anchor for this community.”

The event marked the completion of the two-year $10.8 million project replacing the existing bridge, which was a five-span structure originally constructed in 1939. The bridge was replaced with a two-span structure featuring mechanically stabilized earth-retaining walls along approach roadways. 

The major work consisted of the design and construction for the replacement of the bridge, which runs over railroad tracks and Brookland Avenue, the construction of a retaining wall at Puerto Rico Avenue, and reconstruction of the approaching roadways.

Other key highlights of the rehabilitation:

• Provides 80+ years bridge life expectancy.
• New, historic globe lighting and pedestrian access and walkways.
• The new, modern bridge is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
• Significant improvement to adjacent community by replacing retaining wall along Taylor Street.
• Provides a creative bridge streetscape arrangement to accentuate the aesthetic value of the light poles, improving the lighting intensity on the roadway and sidewalks.