The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) completed phase one of the Eastern Market streetscape work on schedule. DDOT committed to finishing phase one by early June. 7th Street SE from North Carolina to C Street will be reopened on Monday, June 1.
The Washington Post article, following Mayor Fenty’s press briefing two weeks ago, announced the market will reopen June 26.
“Closing the street was a key factor in completing the project on time,” said DDOT Director Gabe Klein. “We want to extend our appreciation to the community, residents, and businesses for their patience during the construction. The end result befits such an important historic icon as Eastern Market.”
The project included removal and upgrade of the existing roadway and bed, installation of new colonial cobblestones, stamped concrete at crosswalks, brick sidewalks, granite curbing, new lighting and utility upgrades.
Phase two (7th Street, SE from C Street to Pennsylvania Avenue) which begins Monday, June 1, is scheduled for completion by September 30, 2009, weather permitting. During phase two only one half of the roadway will be closed. Two-way traffic will be maintained with one lane in each direction during weekdays. There will be no work conducted on the weekends.
Phase two will include furnishing and installing a new 8-inch water main with service connections to the adjacent properties, and installing new curbs, gutters, new molded brick sidewalks, new historic street lights, and ADA compliant ramps.