Connectivity

Existing Conditions

Connectivity arose as a framework for this advocacy plan due to the regional and local importance of DC-295. Regionally, the segments of the Anacostia Freeway & Kenilworth Avenue connect to Suitland Parkway and help residents of MD and VA commute to downtown DC from the west. It also allows drivers to pass through the district from I-295 south towards the Baltimore-Washington Parkway going north.

Locally, it provides access to the rest of the District for Wards 7 & 8 and also provides local connections for employment nodes at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling military base, the DC Department of Employment Services building, and the DC Department of Housing and Community Development building.

Despite its regional and local significance, there are connectivity challenges that the highway presents. The highway encourages a heavy reliance on driving, however, transit and other modes of travel are important for residents of the Anacostia River Corridor. Only 40% of households have access to a vehicle.[22] As a result, 2 out of every 5 corridor residents rely on transit to get to work.[23]

40.3% of households without access to a vehicle

4-mile

2.5-mile

barrier to pedestrian crossing across into Anacostia Park

Although many residents rely on this transit for traveling, there is a 4-mile transit gap in the corridor. With nearly 94% of residents leaving the area for work, many face challenges just to merely complete their daily commute. [24] The highway compounds these barriers created by a lack of transit access by physically blocking access to the park and limiting travel between neighborhoods. Particularly concerning is the 2.5 mile stretch in the central portion of the corridor, which lacks any pedestrian crossings over or under the highway.

Infrastructure enabling safe crossing of DC 295 on foot is limited to 5 pedestrian bridges and 7 underpasses with sidewalks.

To create safe and welcoming ways to access the riverfront park - for residents of all ages and abilities

Connectivity Goals

With these existing circumstances in mind, this advocacy plan emphasizes goals based upon improving connectivity in the corridor: To improve connections between neighborhoods East of the River, and ensure more equitable access to goods and services

To enhance access to and from jobs, opportunities, and attractions in the Greater DC area