Moran & Connolly Announce Pedestrian Access on 14th St. Gained

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 9, 2009 – Reps. Jim Moran (D-VA) and Gerry Connolly (D-VA) announced that the west side of the 14th Street Bridge will be open to pedestrian foot traffic on Inauguration Day. Original plans called for all Potomac River bridge crossings to be closed to pedestrians with the exception of the Memorial Bridge and Chain Bridge.

“I appreciate the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Park Service and the numerous federal, state and local jurisdictions involved in this decision for their willingness to reconsider the initial plan to close the 14th St. Bridge to pedestrians,” said Moran. “Metro doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate everyone who wants to attend the inauguration. For many Northern Virginians, if you’re not coming in on a bus, the only other option is to walk. With direct access to the National Mall, it makes perfect sense to open the 14th Street Bridge.  This is a positive step towards making the inauguration both secure and accessible for all of those living south of the Potomac. More mobility-related modifications need to be made but we’re moving in the right direction.”   

"I appreciate that the Secret Service and inaugural officials have seen the benefit of opening the 14th Street Bridge to pedestrians on January 20th.  It will make it just a bit easier for Northern Virginians to trek over the river to witness history," Rep. Gerry Connolly said.

Earlier today, Moran and Connolly sent a letter to the Secret Service requesting an easing of restrictions on pedestrian access to the Potomac River bridges on Inauguration Day. It also called for medical personnel and hospitality workers scheduled to work on Inauguration Day be provided authorized to cross.  The letter can be accessed at www.moran.house.gov.

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