WASHINGTON, D.C. – A once sidewalk-less stretch of 35th Street NW between Alton Place and Yuma Street, long used by cut-through traffic, is now home to a brand-new sidewalk—thanks to persistent advocacy by neighbors, safety-focused commissioners, and a thoughtful design by the city’s transportation department.
Located just behind popular businesses like Bread Furst, Zips Cleaners, and the car wash, this block had become a safety concern for families and pedestrians due to increased vehicle traffic and the complete absence of a sidewalk on either side.
A Safety Upgrade Years in the Making
The initiative for sidewalk construction began when former ANC Commissioner Teri Huet raised the issue with the ANC 3F Streets and Sidewalks Committee. The primary concern was the cut-through traffic from Yuma Street, which comes barreling downhill and around a blind curve—making the block especially risky for pedestrians, particularly children in the family-heavy neighborhood.
“Many families live in this area, and walking along 35th felt like taking a risk every day,” said one resident. “There were no safe options, and cars would fly through the street like it was a shortcut.”
One year after the committee first met with neighbors at 35th and Alton, the sidewalk is now complete.
Community-Driven Success
The sidewalk’s completion is a testament to sustained local involvement. Residents worked hand-in-hand with commissioners including Courtney Carlson, Marilyn Slatnick, Adrian Iglesias, and Amy Rofman, all of whom supported the project through public meetings, community outreach, and city engagement.
“Building safe and walkable neighborhoods starts with neighbors advocating for each other,” said Paul Harrison, chair of the ANC 3F Streets and Sidewalks Committee and at-large member of the D.C. Pedestrian Advisory Council.
Smart Design on City Land
Though some may assume sidewalk installation infringes on private property, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) builds sidewalks exclusively on city-owned land. However, DDOT’s planning team ensures homeowners are consulted throughout the process and design choices are made thoughtfully.
This was evident during construction on 35th Street, where DDOT implemented flexible and environmentally-friendly design solutions to accommodate existing infrastructure.
For instance:
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Flexipave, a lightweight and water-permeable material, was used to preserve mature tree roots and avoid damaging the natural environment.
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In areas with steep slopes, retaining walls were constructed to manage elevation challenges.
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Where standard tree boxes would interfere with front stoops or driveways, the sidewalk was routed directly adjacent to the street, maintaining accessibility and functionality without disruption.
These thoughtful touches allowed the city to balance safety improvements with neighborhood aesthetics and tree preservation.
More Sidewalks to Come
The success of the 35th Street project is just the beginning. DDOT has already committed to filling other sidewalk gaps across the neighborhood. Upcoming sidewalk installations are planned for:
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Davenport Street
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Linnean Avenue
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Fessenden Street
These projects aim to address similar pedestrian safety and accessibility issues, making D.C. neighborhoods safer and more walkable.
A Walk Worth Taking
Residents and visitors are encouraged to walk the newly paved path next time they’re in the area. “It’s not just a sidewalk,” said Harrison. “It’s a symbol of what community engagement can achieve. When neighbors speak up, and city agencies listen and collaborate, everyone benefits.”
So, whether you’re walking to Bread Furst for a coffee or just getting in your daily steps, take a stroll down 35th Street’s newest sidewalk—a small but meaningful victory for pedestrian safety in Washington, D.C.
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