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

(Washington, DC) As part of its previously announced work on the historic Connecticut Avenue Bridge—also known as "Klingle Bridge"—in Northwest, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will begin the fifth phase of work on or about July 18, 2007, weather permitting.

The fifth phase of work will involve reconstruction of the far right lanes going north bound and the sidewalk.   The sidewalk on the west side will remain open for pedestrian access; however, there will be no service lane access from north bound Connecticut Avenue.

The bridge sits on Connecticut Avenue between Macomb Street and Devonshire Place, NW. Work involves placement of a new bridge deck, repairs to the approach roadways and repair and replacement of structural steel.

As in previous phases, traffic will flow as such:

• During the morning rush hour three lanes of traffic will be maintained southbound and one lane of traffic northbound.
• During evening rush hour, three lanes will be maintained in the northbound direction with one lane southbound.
• At all other times, two lanes will be maintained in each direction. Additional short-term lane closures may be necessary for work.

DDOT has erected variable message board signs informing motorists of the updated traffic pattern. 

Background: The $9 million restoration of the Connecticut Avenue Bridge, which is proceeding on schedule, uses a combination of federal and local funds.

Weather permitting the project is slated to be completed in April 2008. DDOT will continue to update the public on the progress of the project. Hours of work are Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 7 pm.

DDOT reminds motorists to use extreme caution when passing through the work zone.

The average daily traffic count on the bridge is 38,000 vehicles, northbound and southbound combined.