Dear Friends,

Nearly two weeks ago, WABA alerted you to concerns that GSA's proposed transportation changes surrounding the Department of Homeland Security Headquarters at St. Elizabeth's might impact the District's planned South Capitol Street Trail.  Those concerns were based on our reading of the draft Environmental Impact Statement for St. Elizabeth's, which failed to consider the impacts on the South Capitol Street Trail, and several diagrams within the document that appear to show roadway changes that would take space necessary for the completion of the trail.

You took action and sent the message to the GSA team that this issue should be taken seriously.

WABA attended the public comment session at St. Matthew's church in Ward 8.  And while the majority of the meeting dealt with economic development and job creation issues rather than bike lanes, we did have the opportunity to meet with key GSA staff to fully express our concerns.  They had received your calls and emails, and expressed willingness to work with WABA and the cycling community to discuss and examine the potential trail impacts.

Since that meeting, the public comment deadline has been extended to March 4 at Councilmember Barry's request.  But WABA will be meeting with the GSA NEPA Lead in mid-February to discuss the impacts on the South Capitol Street Trail.  

Thank you for your support.  We will continue, as this process goes forward, to keep our supporters informed and to advocate for the planned trail to be completed properly and quickly.

Again, thank you,

WABA