Just look at the National Harbor and you will see how an area can be rapidly changed. The dedicated path on the Wilson bridge accommodates cyclist tourism from both sides to explore the National Harbor and Alexandria. Bicycle commuters are also more frequently using this path.

No amount of lighting or signage will make this new bridge safe for pedestrians or cyclists to cross–in the lane!–with automobiles and large trucks running 60+ mph. Those proposing these solutions have obviously never ridden a bicycle on a roadway.

As a taxpayer, though, I can not fault the decision to not retain the existing bridge as an alternate path for pedestrians and cyclists. This would not be a safe alternative and the maintenance requirements would be excessive.