Objective
The I-395 Sign-Structure Improvement Project is a District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Capital Infrastructure project designed to ensure the District's transportation network is properly maintained and improved on an ongoing basis.
This project includes removal and replacement of seven (7) existing sign structures and the repair of eight (8) existing sign panels and structures including furnishing and installing guiding signs and sign panels, electrical work, lighting, support structures, new foundations, and pavement marking.
The project also includes the removal and disposal of existing sign structures and the removal and relocation of existing speed limit and emergency signs.
Construction Schedule and Anticipated Traffic Impact
- October 2019: Notice to proceed issued.
- Winter 2019/2020: Assess existing structures; perform necessary repairs; perform survey and layout for new structures; and pour foundations for new structures. Night work with intermittent lane closures.
- Spring/Summer 2020: Continue performing necessary repairs; replace existing sign panels with new panels; install new structures including new panels. Overnight multi-lane closures; and temporary, full lane-closures and detours.
- Summer 2020: Project completion.
Schedule and construction are contingent upon weather.
Adjacent Projects
Lane closures will be closely coordinated with the projects along the I-295 corridor, South Capitol Street Bridge construction and other maintenance projects needed during the time.
Safety
Safety is our priority and Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Vision Zero initiative, aiming to reach zero fatalities and serious injuries to travelers of our transportation system by 2024, is at the forefront of this project.
DDOT understands the importance of safety along the I-395 corridor, particularly in the project area where there are a considerable number of access points, variances in speeds as traffic enters and exits the corridor, and a left on-ramp from the 9th Street expressway with minimal merging area.
With a growing average daily traffic (ADT) count of approximately 160,000 vehicles per day, the visibility, clarity and reflectivity of guide signage is critical to driver safety throughout the corridor and has contributed to the need for this project.
Motorists are urged to use caution as they travel in these areas, to anticipate moderate delays, and to be mindful of construction personnel.
Noise Impacts
Most of the field work for this project will be performed at night due to lane closure restrictions. The project team will work diligently to minimize the disruption to the surrounding community during this time and work efficiently to complete the work timely.