Press Release: Councilmember Vincent C. Gray’s Statement on the DC-295 Pedestrian Bridge Collapse

News Release — Ward 7 DC Council member Vincent Gray

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                          

June 23, 2021 

Contact: Takiyah “T.N.” Tate

Washington, D.C. – Today, a truck collision caused a pedestrian bridge to collapse onto DC-295 near the Benning Road Street exit, in Ward 7. At least five people were injured, however, their injuries are not considered life-threatening. Crime scene and police investigators are trying to determine the cause of the initial crash. Following the collapse of a pedestrian bridge onto DC-295 today, D.C. Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (Ward 7) released the following statement:

“We are very fortunate that the tragedy on 295 and the overhead pedestrian bridge today did not result in any fatalities. My best wishes and prayers are with the victims who are currently being treated for injuries. We wait encouragingly and expectedly for their full recovery,” said Councilmember Gray.

“It is imperative that we understand how this disaster occurred and implement all precautions to ensure that something like this never happens again. Lives could have been lost,” said Gray. “After a clearing of the roadway and a thorough investigation, we must immediately address pedestrian safety and traffic flow in the nearby neighborhoods of Ward 7. The footbridge is a vital link used by hundreds of people each day to safely cross 295 and connect to the Deanwood Metro station, nearby recreation center, schools, churches and neighbors.”

“While the disaster today appears to be related to driver error, this event is a reminder that the East End of the city needs infrastructure repairs and upgrades. I have called for funding to make significant and much needed improvements to infrastructure in Ward 7. The projects not only improve the safety, quality of life and economic conditions on the East End, but they provide jobs with good wages,” said Gray.

“I will be monitoring every step of this process as it unfolds and working with the executive to ensure a thorough investigation, speedy but safe measures to reopen the roadway, convenient accommodations for pedestrians and the fastest possible rebuilding of the footbridge,” said Gray.

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