A new shared-use path along Chain Bridge Road could make bicycling and walking in Fairfax City more convenient—but FABB believes the design needs to go farther to deliver a continuous connection. Please speak up and urge the city to extend the proposed path north beyond Assembly Drive to connect directly with the existing I-66 trail extension.
The project would add a path on the west side of Chain Bridge Road between Assembly Drive and Northfax Street, formerly Orchard Street. The plan describes connections to other path improvements along Chain Bridge Road and bicycle lanes on Northfax Street. These improvements advance the Northfax Small Area Plan’s goal of stitching surrounding neighborhoods together through better walking and bicycling facilities.
FABB’s concern is that the proposed project leaves a critical connection unfinished. Effective bicycle infrastructure must work as a network. Connecting this investment directly to the existing I-66 trail extension would help riders travel between neighborhoods and the wider trail system with fewer gaps and more confidence.
We encourage local riders to share their own experiences and ideas. Where do you encounter difficult transitions or missing connections? How would a continuous route affect your trips to work, shops, or nearby neighborhoods? What would make this corridor more useful for people of different ages and riding abilities?
Consider making these points in your comments:
- Support the proposed shared-use path as a useful investment in walking and bicycling.
- Urge the city to extend the design north beyond Assembly Drive and connect directly to the existing I-66 trail extension.
- Explain how that connection would improve a trip you make—or would like to make.
- Ask the city to identify how and when it will complete the connection if it cannot be included in the current project.
Review the project exhibit and visit the project page for feedback options. You can also speak at the City Council public hearing on Tuesday, November 10, at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers Room 100, Fairfax City Hall, 10455 Armstrong Street.
Let’s make this investment count. Share your perspective and help Fairfax City build a connected network that gets people where they want to go.
