ANC 3F’s Broad Branch Road Resolution

Broad Branch Road alternative 4

At their November 19th meeting, ANC 3F voted to support the DDOT Broad Branch Road rehabilitation plan that makes the most changes: Alternative 4.

The commissioners were not entirely pleased with this alternative, which aims to improve safety and park access for all road users. It adds a climbing lane for uphill-bound bicyclists on the eastern side of the road, but drivers and cyclists will share the road in the other direction. It also means, potentially, the loss of about 460 trees as the roadway is widened to make room for a sidewalk and the bike lane.

Therefore, the support is conditional. For example, the resolution calls on DDOT to minimize environmental impacts and tree damage and loss wherever possible, and to replace damaged and felled trees with a native tree “best suited to thrive in this environment.”

You can watch their discussion here. (Broad Branch discussion begins at 1:38:00)

All seven of ANC 3F’s commissioners were present, and the resolution, offered by 3F03’s Mary Beth Ray, passed unanimously. The full text is below.

Resolution Regarding The Rehabilitation of Broad Branch Road

Whereas, ANC 3F commends DDOT, FHA and Parsons for a thoughtful and comprehensive analysis in the Environmental Assessment, and for providing ample opportunity to the community to weigh in with comments and questions.

Whereas, on June 18, 2013, ANC 3F passed a resolution unanimously supporting safer pedestrian and cycling access to Rock Creek Park, and minimizing storm water run-off to protect the stream bed and prevent erosion.

Whereas, ANC 3F has concerns about safety at the intersection of Brandywine and Broad Branch.

Whereas, while less intrusive options have been explored, Option 4 appears to be the only vetted option to address these concerns.

Whereas, Option 4 will improve access to Rock Creek Park for all modes of transportation.

Whereas, Option 4 enhances safety for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

Whereas, Option 4 improves storm water management.

Whereas, Option 4 prevents erosion of soil and tree loss due to erosion.

Whereas, Option 4 encourages commuters in both DC and Maryland to cycle, run or walk to work.

Now therefore be it resolved that, ANC 3F supports Option 4 of the proposed Broad Branch Rd. rehabilitation options, provided that:

• ANC 3F encourages DDOT to be proactive in coordinating with other agencies so that all construction work can be timed, where possible, to minimize environmental impact and road closures. (By way of example, DDOT should coordinate with DC Water during its Soapstone sewer improvement project. DDOT should coordinate with PEPCO to bury power lines. And DDOT should coordinate with DDOE to take all reasonable steps to prevent erosion.)
• ANC 3F encourages DDOT to take all reasonable steps to minimize the number of trees damaged or lost due to this work, and to replace each tree damaged or lost with a native tree best suited to thrive in this environment.
• ANC 3F requests that, where technically possible, DDOT engineers seek ways to lower the proposed retaining walls along the west side of the road, so that pedestrians, cyclists and motorists experience a minimal interruption of the natural view.

 
=Be it further resolved, that ANC 3F urges DDOT to incorporate pervious pavement where possible.

Be it further resolved, ANC 3F requests that DDOT traffic engineers study the Brandywine-Broad Branch Road intersection and make recommendations to ANC 3F on all options to improve safety, including possibly reconfiguring but not eliminating the traffic island.

Be it further resolved, that Mary Beth Ray be authorized to speak at any hearings on the topic of the Broad Branch Rd. rehabilitation on behalf of ANC 3F.

ANC 3F approved this resolution at its meeting on November 19, 2013, which was properly noticed and at which a quorum was present. The resolution was approved by a vote of 7-0-0.

Adam Tope, Chair