Improving Safety for Key Clarendon Boulevard Intersection
Published on October 21, 2017
- Clarendon & 15th St. N intersection to be safer for all
- Expanding Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor walkability
The County Board today authorized a $642,360 contract with Ardent Company, LLC for pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of
Clarendon Boulevard and 15th Street North.
The project is part of, and funded by, the County's
WalkArlington initiative to create a more walkable
Rosslyn-Ballston (R-B) Corridor by improving pedestrian safety, circulation and access in and around
Courthouse Plaza.
"These are the kinds of projects that make Arlington such a great place to walk," said Arlington County Board Chair Jay Fisette. "This intersection is going to function better for all who use it — and look a lot better — as a result of the improvements the Board approved today."
The Board voted unanimously to approve the contract.
Clarendon Boulevard is a key arterial street in the R-B corridor, and the intersection of 15
th Street is central to the busy Courthouse Metro Station. The intersection is currently designed primarily to funnel automobiles onto 15th Street North, which often results in conflicts between pedestrians, vehicles and transit users.
[caption id="attachment_13809" align="alignright" width="300"]
Concept plan for intersection improvements.[/caption]
Safer for all travelers
New safety and streetscape improvements, which will include new concrete curb and gutter, ADA compliant sidewalks, storm structures and streetscape amenities, such as benches and bike racks, will make this area safer for all travelers. The project also will improve the circulation of the Courthouse Plaza parking garage and provide better access to the surrounding street network by extending the parking garage's entrance to Clarendon Boulevard. The bus stop waiting area along 15
th Street North will be expanded and the existing bus stop at Clarendon Boulevard/N. Wayne Street will be relocated to the far right of the intersection to facilitate safer pedestrian crossing along this street segment.
The project is compatible with the long-term
Courthouse Square Plan and will fulfill the County Board's adopted
Stormwater Management Ordinance by planting shrubs, ornamental grasses and street trees to reduce impervious asphalt pavement. The ordinance was adopted in response to updated Commonwealth of Virginia regulations and codifies the County's commitment to protecting local water quality and improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay.
See the
project webpage for status and timeline.
Public engagement
Project design plans have been shared with surrounding stakeholders and civic associations. For more information, visit the
County website. Scroll down to Item No. 23 on the Agenda for the October 21, 2017 Regular County Board Meeting.