The Washington Street deck spanning the Capital Beltway, linking communities, pedestrians, bikers and motorists, was dedicated Tuesday, June 12.

Federal Highway Administrator J. Richard Capka, Virginia Transportation Secretary Pierce Homer, Ronaldo Nicholson, Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project Manager, and Alexandria Mayor William Euille all spoke during the ceremony, citing the partnership among federal, state and local groups that has defined the overall Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project.

The centerpiece of the dedication was the unveiling of a brass plaque inscribed with the names of individuals and groups who contributed to the creation of the deck.

According to Mayor Euille, This project exemplifies how federal, state and local governments have come together to accomplish something great for the many travelers that will cross the deck on a daily basis, heading into Alexandria or south toward Mount Vernon. We created a partnership that resulted in a masterpiece.

The design of the deck includes bricked paths and plenty of landscaping on both sides of Washington Street. It serves as a gateway between the city and Fairfax County. For citizens on foot or bicycle, the deck will connect bike paths coming from five directions and in 2008, upon completion of the second new Wilson Bridge, the deck will link to Maryland across the Potomac River.

Drivers will benefit from the decks now permanent status as a four-lane road serving areas south of Alexandria, the city and points north.