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

(Washington, DC) — The District Department of Transportation is scheduled to begin construction at the intersection of First Street, Florida Avenue, New York Avenue and Eckington Place in northeast on or about Monday, October 26, 2009. The $3.8M project is designed to improve circulation and decrease accidents at this major intersection.

Improvements to the intersection include realignment of the curbs, upgraded street lighting and traffic signals, new landscaping, building ramps to current ADA standards, pedestrian islands and medians.  In addition, new signage and lane markings will be installed to allow for safer and more efficient access for residents, motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.

The safety project is anticipated to be completed within eight months, weather permitting.  In an effort to minimize disruption the following work hours will be in effect:

• Work will be conducted during non-peak hours from 9:30 am to 3 pm on First Street.
• Work on New York and Florida avenues will take place between 7 pm and 5:30 am. No daytime lane closures will be in effect on New York and Florida avenues Monday through Friday between 5:30 am and 7 pm.
• All milling and resurfacing work will be done from 7 pm – 5:30 am

Motorists are advised to travel with care through the work zone. For additional information visit www.ddot.dc.gov.