History Repeats Itself--Except this time, Broad Branch NW will be Repaired and Reopened

April 26, 2011

We heard that the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is developing a plan to repair and reopen Broad Branch Road, NW which was closed last week as a safety precaution after a sinkhole developed in the roadway.  Engineers determined that a culvert for a creek had structurally failed, and that a further collapse of the roadway was imminent.

Same thing happened to Klingle Road.

The necessary permanent repairs to Broad Branch Road will be relatively complex, and will involve multiple local and federal agencies.  Because Soapstone Creek is involved, DDOT will need a permit from the US Army Corp of Engineers (USACE).  Because Rock Creek Park is involved, DDOT will need a permit from the National Park Service (NPS). Both agencies have been advised of the emergency need to complete this repair, and all agencies are now collaborating on this project.  

Same thing would be need for Klingle Road and the Klingle Stream, except that well-heeled neighbors convinced the Federal and city government not to repair the road, but instead CM Cheh is supporting the build of a very short $7M hike bike path which is in the FY 2012-2017 budget.

DDOT said it understands the inconvenience the closing of Broad Branch Road has on travelers and the adjacent neighborhood, and they ask for our patience while they work to repair and reopen the road.  They want you to make sure you don’t pass the barricades unless you are accessing the adjacent residences or embassy. There is nothing supporting the asphalt for approximately 20 feet and it could be very dangerous for drivers and pedestrians.

Guess DDOT does not understand the inconvenience the closing of Klingle Road was to the DC residents of Wards 5, 4, 3, and 1.  Barricades are also up for Klingle and Woodley Park residents go around them all the time. 

After all, it is their private dog park.

No Justice, No Peace.