Van Ness Metro west entrance to reopen temporarily, and other notes from the Sept. 15th ANC 3F meeting

by Marlene Berlin

Some news and announcements from the September 15th meeting of ANC 3F:

On Van Ness Metro escalator work: Cedric Watson from WMATA reported the steps at the western entrance to the station will reopen for a time, starting in mid-October.

Van Ness Metro west side street entrance with the escalator removed. (WMATA photo)

Park Van Ness sidewalk: Commissioner Sally Gresham says it’s still on schedule to reopen sidewalk end of the year.

The man at the playground: Police and representatives from Friendship Place left the ANC meeting to talk to a young man who’s been seen frequently at Forest Hills Playground, playing music over speakers and exercising. A resident emailed Sally Gresham during the meeting to tell her the man was currently at the playground, and when I walked by at 9:15 p.m., he was still there, playing even louder music than I have observed in the past.

New MPD lieutenant in our area: Gary Durand comes from District 5, after coming back from sick leave. Reach him at [email protected].

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: UDC will be one of the sites. On Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., take expired and unwanted prescription drugs to the driveway off Van Ness Street under the breezeway. Here’s a full list of sites. (Barbara Bates announced)

Pope Francis visit: DDOT’s Matthew Marcou advised residents not to drive if they can help it. Telecommute, walk, bike or take public transportation.

Van Ness pedestrian safety: DDOT did not present due to a miscommunication. It’ll meet with ANC commissioners at Van Ness next week.

Sidewalk on Fessenden and 32nd Streets: Motion tabled. Residents had not brought petitions.