This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge project. Spanning the Potomac River, this iconic bridge connects Prince George’s County, Maryland, with Virginia, serving as a critical artery for both I-495 and I-95. It’s not just a bridge; it’s a linchpin in the Washington, DC region’s transportation network, supporting millions of commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists.
The Woodrow Wilson Bridge project was an ambitious endeavor from the start, recognized as one of the most complex urban transportation improvement projects in the nation. The construction of a twin-bridge, 12-lane, moveable span facility demanded precision, innovation, and seamless coordination. Our team worked to deliver major upgrades to four adjacent interchanges and Deckover that connects Rosalie Island to trails in both Maryland and Virginia.
A standout feature of this project is Rosalie Island Park, a serene, Olmsted-inspired landscape designed by Mahan Rykiel Associates. This park offers broad expanses of lawn and trees, creating a tranquil escape amidst the bustling urban environment. The Deckover, which created a bridge over the bridge, provides direct pedestrian and bicycle connections to Alexandria, featuring winding, accessible paths that lead to a picturesque open park with a meadow, wetland interpretation area, and observation pier. The View Garden in particular, offers dramatic vistas of Washington, DC, and other Potomac River landmarks, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Our involvement in refining the Design Development plans, developing Construction Documents, and creating detailed planting plans for all areas was a significant part of this project. We navigated the complexities of coordinating with four jurisdictions and more than 60 agencies, demonstrating our ability to manage large-scale projects with diverse stakeholders.
Our efforts were recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2006 Merit Award from the Maryland/Potomac ASLA and the OPAL Award from ASCE. These accolades underscore the impact and quality of our work. As we reflect on this 15 year milestone, we take pride in the transformative impact of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge project. It stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through collaboration and innovation.
Looking ahead, we hope this project and others like it around the country will inspire and offer insight to the upcoming Francis Scott Key Bridge project in Baltimore. While serving to restore a landmark and vital regional connection lost during the tragic events on March 26, 2024, this new venture promises to be another milestone on the ongoing evolution of Maryland’s infrastructure network. The lessons learned from projects like the Woodrow Wilson Bridge will ensure the Francis Scott Key Bridge becomes another landmark achievement in building a better, more connected future.
