Construction is set to begin this summer to “deck over” a busy section of Connecticut Avenue NW to transform it into a vibrant new public plaza. But some residents and local businesses are concerned over how the project will affect them. We spoke with NBC4 Transportation Reporter Adam Tuss, who helped us understand what this all means for Dupont Circle and D.C.
📋 What does the project entail?
The planned “deck over” project would cover a section of roadway that drops underneath the Connecticut Avenue underpass in Dupont Circle. This new, multi-modal streetscape along Connecticut Avenue will start at the north side of Dupont Circle and continue north to California Street NW.
The project isn’t designed to fix a problem, rather to improve the area. Tuss says city officials believe that putting this deck over Dupont Circle can make the area more useful and pedestrian and cyclist-friendly. The goal is to make the plaza a place where people can hang out and increase traffic to local businesses.
A screenshot of a rendering of the “deck over” project from an April 2025 city presentation. (Government of the District of Columbia)
🤨 Why are some locals concerned?
Traffic due to construction is a major concern for Dupont Circle residents and businesses. Connecticut Avenue is a major commuter route in D.C., so if it has to be shut down to facilitate construction, Tuss says some residents told him they’re concerned that traffic will likely spill over into their residential streets. Another concern is the big, heavy equipment used during construction putting pressure on their streets and causing obstructions in their day-to-day.
🏗️ What’s next for the “deck over” project?
DDOT is expecting to break ground on the project sometime in July, and is expected to be a three-year effort. The estimated project cost is $30 million, which Tuss explains isn’t really a lot compared to other transportation or transit projects — though that amount could change as the project starts.
