Media Contact: John Lisle at (202) 671-2004

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) today announced nine projects selected to receive FY09 funding through DDOT’s Transportation Enhancement Program. Approximately $2 million in funding is available city-wide as part of the Transportation Enhancement Program for non-traditional projects that are linked to the District’s transportation system. The funding is provided through the Federal Highway Administration’s Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). The aim of the program is to "strengthen the cultural, aesthetic, and environmental aspects of the Nation's intermodal transportation system."

Transportation Enhancement Projects for FY09:

Pope’s Branch:  Removal of sediment and conversion of culvert to outfall structure in Pope’s Branch, located between Minnesota Avenue and Fairlawn Place, SE.

Barney Circle:  Final data analysis and report of potentially significant cultural resources within the previously proposed right-of-way for Barney Circle freeway project.

Casey Tree Foundation:  Installation of Silva Cells and street side infiltration planters to manage runoff from roadway, as well as analysis once project is complete.

Downtown Artwalk:  Removal, delivery and installation of ArtWalk frames (with ground lights) and ArtWalk Pavers as well as project management, site prep and specs.

Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Street and H Street Park:  Fix damage to existing sidewalks and paths, provide benches, trash receptacles, shade structure and bike rack.

Golden Triangle BID:  Construction of planted median on Connecticut Avenue between K and L Streets, NW.

Shepherd Block Association:  Installation of tree boxes and plantings on the 3900 commercial block of 14th Street, NW.

Georgetown ANC 2E:  Refurbishment of streetlights

Cultural Tourism DC:  Continuation of the Heritage Trail program.

DDOT approved funding for the above projects after evaluating fourteen applications received earlier this year. Each project must relate to surface transportation and meet at least one of twelve eligible activities outlined by the Federal Highway Administration and be consistent with agency plans, goals and policies. More information about the criteria is available online at ddot.dc.gov.

Applications for fiscal year 2010 will be accepted beginning in May 2009 through July 2009.