Ward 5 Councilmember McDuffie responds to Eckington resident Tim Bennett's concerns about North Capitol Street traffic

Here is an update on this 08-19-2016 Bloomingdale Neighborhood blog post.

Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2016 8:55 AM

Mr. Bennett -

Thank you again for the drive through on North Capitol Street a few weeks ago.  As a follow up to our discussion and meeting, please see next steps below:

We  have reached out to DDOT to see if we can get some short term solutions that will help eliminate some of the confusion that comes from the North Capitol/Florida Ave intersection.

a.   Placement of a neon “no left turn sign” for vehicles traveling south on North Capitol Street so that it is clear that you cannot access Florida Ave NE from that intersection. 

b.   Proper early signage to let drivers know that to access Florida Avenue NE when driving south on North Capitol, they should make the left turn at the next intersection at P Street NE.   

2)    The Councilmember has asked that DDOT take a look at the timing of the lights at North Capitol and New York Avenue.  The ramp leading from off of North Capitol onto New York Avenue is almost always congested, especially during rush hour.  It is usually backed up due to the vehicle backup from the cars along New York Avenue waiting to turn onto 395.  Then the problem is even greater exacerbated by the pedestrians crossing that intersection.

3)    Additionally, DDOT, other agencies and even third party consultants have conducted studies about the traffic conditions and improvements necessary for the North Capitol Street, New York Avenue, Florida Avenue areas.  This includes studies that were a part of the Mid City East plan as well as studies conducted through NOMA Bid.  Councilmember McDuffie will continue looking into these recommendations to advocate for funding and implementation.

We I will update you as soon as we hear back from DDOT and let you know the steps and timing they decide to take.

Thank you again!