This is really a follow-up to Monday’s post about the opening of the new inbound 11th Street Freeway Bridge. We haven’t heard any complaints about the new bridge (thankfully) but there does seem to be some traffic-stopping confusion (not literally) about new signs posted on the approach to the new bridge and on the span itself. In fact, some folks think we made a glaring – and very visible – mistake on the signage.
New Sign on New Inbound 11th Street Bridge
The signs say “Interstate 695 to Interstate 395 Capitol Hill.” Only problem is there is no I-695 in the District, right? Maybe – some speculate - the signs are referring to the Baltimore Beltway which is also I-695.
Opening of the Inbound Freeway Bridge
Well, actually, there is an I-695 in DC and there has been on for a long time. But while residents and commuters are intimately familiar with I-295 and I-395, you can’t blame them for not knowing where I-695 is located; as far as we can tell it was not previously signed although it was shown on some maps. I-695 has been the designation for a portion of the Southeast/Southwest Freeway, beginning where I-395 enters the Third Street Tunnel and extending to the northern side of the 11th Street Bridge, a grand total of 1.4 miles.
Map Showing New Limits of I-695
In conjunction with the construction of the new 11th Street Bridges, DDOT requested and received approval to extend I-695 across the Anacostia River where it now terminates at the interchange with I-295 and DC 295. I-695 is now a full 2 miles long with mile marker zero located at the junction with I-395. And I-695 is now signed. The map above shows the new limits of I-695 highlighted in green.
There is a method to our madness – we promise – but if you’re still confused maybe Mike DeBonis of the Post or WTOP’s Adam Tuss can provide more clarity.
If only they had signed I-695 way back when the SE/SW Freeway was completed.
Construction of SE/SW Freeway in 1972
Now, who knows where to find the Dwight D. Eisenhower Freeway? Is it signed?
John Lisle
Communications Director
OK, I give up! Where is the Eisenhower Freeway in DC?
I was waiting for someone to say “Uncle!” It is what you and just about everyone else knows as the SE/SW Freeway.
I can’t remember where, but I have seen it signed as the Eisenhower Freeway.