How long will the Virginia Avenue Tunnel project take?
The earliest tunnel construction would begin in early 2011, with completion in two to three years.

What is being done to learn about community concerns and to minimize impacts?
During the current and early planning phase, CSX is working closely with community members and local authorities to develop a plan to minimize disruption.

What is being done to minimize traffic impacts in the area?
CSX is working closely with the city and District Department of Transportation to minimize traffic disruptions in the area. CSX is also meeting with residents whose property is adjacent to the tunnel site to explore ways to lessen the construction impact. Virginia Avenue will be closed during construction, and CSX will erect temporary bridges over the work site to allow cars, bikes and pedestrians to travel north and south on numbered roads from 2nd Street SE to 11th Street SE. CSX will work with District officials to restore Virginia Avenue when the project is completed.

During what hours will construction be performed?
CSX is committed to minimizing the impact of this project on the surrounding community. Construction will be performed primarily between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. in compliance with District of Columbia requirements. Due to normal rail operations and highway needs, there may be instances where some work is performed outside of this time frame in order to maintain safe and secure rail and road operations.

Will this increase the number of trains carrying chlorine and ammonia through the District?
Since 2001, CSX has honored a voluntary agreement with the District not to transport any highly hazardous materials on this route and will continue to abide by those terms.