The District Department of Transportation (DDOT), in collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the National Park Service (NPS), and the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), rehabilitated the Rock Creek Park Multi-Use Trail to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, accessibility, and connectivity throughout northwest Washington, DC. The project included the resurfacing and widening of over 5 miles of trail segments, realignment of critical sections, installation of permeable asphalt for improved stormwater management, and reconstruction of deteriorated infrastructure such as retaining walls and streambanks. A key feature of the project was the construction of a new 110-foot pedestrian bridge near the Smithsonian National Zoo, enhancing safety and access by providing a dedicated path away from vehicular traffic. The project also included directional and interpretive signage and extended trail connections to nearby facilities such as Piney Branch Parkway and Rose Park Trail. Environmental impacts were evaluated through a multi-agency Environmental Assessment process in accordance with NEPA and NHPA, culminating in a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) in 2014. 

As a DBE subconsultant to a major transportation firm, BVF supported DDOT during the final design phase by developing a Critical Path Method (CPM) Construction Schedule based on the Intermediate Design Submission (65% design complete). The schedule served as a valuable tool for stakeholder coordination, including public outreach events, DDOT advisory meetings, and Context Sensitive Design (CSD) and Solutions (CSS) workshops. BVF’s work helped facilitate planning and decision-making as the project advanced to the Pre-Final (90%), Final (100%), and PS&E submission stages. The detailed construction schedule supported DDOT’s efforts to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery while communicating project milestones to stakeholders and the public.