A bus station on Washington Blvd is temporarily closing for improvements to an intersection a couple blocks north of the Virginia Square Metro station.
The intersection of Washington Blvd and N. Nelson Street is considered a “hot spot” of crashes, according to an Arlington County project webpage. It’s located on the northeast corner of Quincy Park, one block from Washington-Liberty High School, and several blocks from intersections that have seen a number of notable crashes involving pedestrians.
“Three pedestrian crashes occurred at this location in the three-year analysis timeframe,” staff said in a webpage for the project. “Traffic speeds are generally higher than the posted speed limit. Auto and pedestrian volumes at this location are also relatively high for the facility type.”
The County plans to install rectangular rapid flashing beacons for pedestrians and to make additional crossing and curb improvements to make the intersection more accessible. The changes will also make the sidewalk wider on the northern side of Washington Blvd.
A county staff presentation from December suggests construction will take place over the course of this spring and summer. WMATA says the bus stop at the intersection will be discontinued starting today (Monday) and passengers should board or exit at N. Quincy Street and N. Lincoln Street a block west and east respectively.
Other parts of Washington Blvd have also gone through changes to make the street safer, including the nearby intersection of N. Utah Street.
38B Riders: Due to a long-term construction project in Arlington County, the bus stop on Washington Blvd at N. Nelson St will be temporarily discontinued on Monday, February 3. Customers may board/exit buses at an adjacent bus stop. Details: https://t.co/5omSGj65jt #wmata
— Metrobus Info (@Metrobusinfo) January 31, 2020
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