As FABB celebrates 20 years of bicycling advocacy, we continue our retrospective series with a look back at our efforts to improve bicycle and pedestrian access along Route 29 in late February 2019. This key corridor has been the focus of multiple advocacy efforts over the years, and thanks to persistent community engagement, significant progress has been made.
In 2019, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) announced a public information meeting to discuss a long-overdue project: filling in missing segments of the shared-use path along northbound Route 29. The project, aimed at improving safety and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians between Vaden Drive and Nutley Street, was an important step in enhancing connectivity to key destinations such as the Vienna Metro Station and the Gerald Connolly Cross County Trail.
FABB encouraged local riders to attend the meeting and speak up in support of these improvements. With a budget of $1.3 million, funded by the the Transform 66 Outside the Beltway Project Comprehensive Agreement, the project was set to include an extension of the Route 29 culvert over Accotink Creek to accommodate the shared-use path.
Two years later, in 2021, FABB again urged riders to take action—this time in support of further enhancements along Route 29 at Towers Park. This small but impactful project would complete another critical gap in the bicycle and pedestrian network along the south side of Lee Highway, providing improved access to transit, parks, and other community amenities. The project’s $2.1 million budget was similarly funded through the I-66 concession fee.
Fast forward to November 2023, and FABB’s advocacy efforts paid off. The Route 29 project was successfully completed, filling in missing segments of the shared-use path between Vaden Drive and Nutley Street. The project also included the long-planned culvert extension over a tributary of Accotink Creek, ensuring a safer and more accessible route for cyclists and pedestrians.
But the work isn’t done yet. In 2024, FABB continues to push for further enhancements along Route 29. Local riders were encouraged to participate in a Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) virtual meeting on the Route 29 Study, which aims to assess long-term corridor needs, improve safety, and explore multimodal potential. The study spans 2.9 miles from Buckley’s Gate Drive/Summit Drive to Jermantown Road and considers new bicycle and pedestrian facilities, among other improvements.
The study is also tied to the Fairfax Center Area Comprehensive Plan Amendment and the county’s Active Fairfax planning effort, ensuring that future land use and transportation needs prioritize safer, more connected routes for cyclists and pedestrians.
Why This Matters & How You Can Help
The completion of the Route 29 shared-use path improvements is a victory for active transportation, but FABB’s advocacy remains crucial as new projects and studies shape the future of biking in Fairfax County.
Your voice matters! Here’s how you can get involved:
- Stay informed: Follow FABB for updates on upcoming projects.
- Attend public meetings: Speak up in support of safer, better bike infrastructure.
- Advocate for future improvements: Help ensure that cycling remains a key part of our county’s transportation planning.
- Volunteer with FABB: Join our efforts to make Fairfax County a more bike-friendly community!
Want to help? Contact us at [email protected].
With every completed project, we move closer to a safer and more connected biking network in Fairfax County. Let’s keep the momentum going!
