Press Release: Lane Closures to Begin as Black Lives Matter Plaza Becomes Permanent

News Release — District Department of Transportation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 16, 2021

Media Contacts:

Lauren Stephens

Mariam Nabizad

(Washington, DC) — Today, Mayor Bowser and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) announce that construction to make Black Lives Matter Plaza a permanent installation will begin on Monday, July 19 and is expected to conclude by October 1, 2021.

During construction, DDOT will close all northbound and southbound travel lanes to vehicular traffic on 16th Street NW between H Street NW and K Street NW. The lane closures are necessary to install roadway pavers, bollards, and the permanent Black Lives Matter mural. Once completed, the permanent installation will protect pedestrian safety while accommodating vehicles and keeping with the spirit of the original mural design.

Construction will occur from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and local access to businesses will be maintained; however, through access will remain closed for the duration of construction. Sidewalks will remain open to pedestrian traffic. Traffic controls, including signage, will be in place to guide motorists and pedestrians safely around the work zone. All users of the roadway are advised to stay alert and be observant of signage and work zones while traveling in this area.

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