Yearlong Construction Project to Tear Up 7th Street NW in Shaw

Traveling through the heart of Shaw is about to get a lot more difficult.

A major rehabilitation of 7th Street NW is set to begin Tuesday at 7 a.m., ushering in a year of traffic delays and temporary road and sidewalk closures.

From N Street to Florida Avenue, the road and the walkways around it will receive a face-lift intended to improve the streetscape and safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists along the corridor by January 2017.

A District Department of Transportation announcement made today adds:

The change in traffic patterns is necessary for the Streetscape Project around the Howard Theater area. Work will be extensive and includes the installation of new streetlights, traffic signals and landscaping along 7th Street. The improvements also include new sidewalks, ramps, curbs, gutters, multiuse meters, catch basins and bike racks. New trees will be planted and the roadway will be milled and overlayed.

Although traffic will be maintained throughout the corridor, there will be temporary closures of traffic lanes, parking lanes and the sidewalk.Curbside parking will be restricted while work is underway.

Emergency No Parking signs will be posted a minimum of 72 hours before the start of construction. Sidewalk detours will also be in place while sidewalk repair is in progress.  Signage and protective barriers will be used to maintain public safety.

Motorists should expect delays, and are advised to seek alternative routes. DDOT encourages all who travel in this area to stay alert and to obey all construction signs.

Photo via DDOT