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An aging Dulles Toll Road bridge in Tysons is undergoing an $11.85 million rehabilitation, but plans to turn the rebuilt span into a public-art gateway have been abandoned.

Construction began in December on the eastbound bridge over Route 123, also known as Dolley Madison Boulevard. Work was temporarily paused for several days while snow-removal efforts continued.

The state-funded project is designed to improve safety, increase clearance for vehicles traveling beneath the bridge and extend the structure’s lifespan. The bridge was built in 1963 and repaired in 1995.

Crews will replace the concrete deck, parapets and steel beams while repairing deteriorating piers and abutments. The work also includes replacing an overhead sign structure on the toll road shortly before the bridge.

The Tysons Community Alliance had proposed adding artwork to make the bridge a more distinctive gateway for motorists leaving Tysons for McLean. The organization raised the idea during the Virginia Department of Transportation’s public-comment period in February 2024.

With the bridge design due to be finalized by May 2025, the alliance brought in artist Vicki Scuri to create concepts and later launched a campaign seeking $500,000 in sponsorships for the installation.

The artwork was ultimately deemed impractical because placing a permanent installation in the public right of way would create long-term bonding, maintenance and liability obligations beyond the rehabilitation project’s scope, alliance communications director Monique Blyther said.

Blyther said the organization remains committed to pursuing placemaking and public art elsewhere in Tysons when long-term stewardship and project requirements can be aligned.

Construction is scheduled to be completed in early 2028. The work may require weekday and overnight lane closures on the toll road and Route 123 outside peak travel periods.

A covered walkway has been installed to protect pedestrians using the sidewalk along northbound Route 123. Drivers and pedestrians are being urged to watch for changing traffic patterns, avoid distractions and use caution around active work zones.