An open house on plans for a pedestrian bridge between Crystal City and Reagan National Airport is happening today (Wednesday).
New watercolor renderings of the “CC2DCA” bridge — produced by the National Landing BID, and not necessarily representative of the county’s plans at the moment — depict a 20-foot-wide connector with a continuous canopy.
A recently released brochure from the BID envisions a “well-lit,” “inviting” 1,200-foot walkway that caters to a range of travelers.
“The design, while allowing bicyclists and scooters, must prioritize pedestrian comfort and safety by using design elements to slow speeds and favor circulation for those who are walking,” the pamphlet says.
A county spokesperson clarified that the project is still in the concept phase, and no design elements have been formally decided. Completion of 30% of the design is anticipated in early 2026.
People have until Sunday, Feb. 9 to submit feedback on design priorities for the forthcoming $57.2 million bridge, which will connect the airport with the Crystal City Metro station, the Mount Vernon Trail and a planned “National Landing Station” for Virginia Railway Express.
“CC2DCA must read as a striking and memorable design from a distance and above to convey its architectural significance and elevate civic pride, creating a new landmark for Arlington,” the brochure says.
The feedback form asks respondents how they would travel on the bridge and for their thoughts on amenities, facilities and visual design styles.
Today’s in-person meeting will take place from 4-7 p.m. in the Aurora Hills Community Center at 735 18th Street S.
Tracy Sayegh Gabriel, president and CEO of the National Landing BID, called the open house “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to design and deliver an infrastructure project that will define National Landing’s identity for years to come.”
“The National Landing BID, alongside the business community, advocates for a modern, pedestrian-centric design and contiguous structure that provides seamless connectivity and integration with adjacent transportation facilities,” she said in a press release.
“By focusing on user experience and delivering an iconic design that fosters civic pride, CC2DCA will not only serve its practical purpose but will exemplify the area’s identity as a vibrant and accessible urban hub.”
The bridge will have a gentle slope and is expected to serve up to 5,000 daily users, ARLnow previously reported. Arlington County released a video about the project earlier this month.
This article has been updated to clarify the distinction between the renderings from the National Landing BID and the county’s current plans.
