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Fairfax County’s new W&OD Trail bridge over Wiehle Avenue has received an honorable mention in the 2026 American Public Works Association Mid-Atlantic Chapter Project of the Year Awards.

The pedestrian improvement project was recognized in the transportation category for projects costing between $5 million and $25 million.

The bridge eliminated an at-grade trail crossing on a four-lane road used by approximately 24,000 vehicles each day. By separating trail traffic from the roadway, the project improves safety for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers while providing a better walking and biking connection to the Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station.

The steel bridge is 147 feet long and 16 feet wide, accommodating both the asphalt and gravel portions of the W&OD Trail.

Additional work included installing 10-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of Wiehle Avenue, widening the roadway to allow bike lanes to be added in the future and upgrading curb ramps to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. The traffic signal at Wiehle Avenue and Sunset Hills Road was also improved.

Fairfax County’s Department of Transportation and Department of Public Works and Environmental Services coordinated the project’s design and construction.

Transportation Director Gregg Steverson said the APWA recognition reflects the collaboration required across the county to complete complex projects serving the community.

Public Works and Environmental Services Director Chris Herrington said the project helps make Fairfax County safer and more sustainable.

The improvements cost $9.97 million and were financed through federal and state grants. The work was completed as a locally administered Virginia Department of Transportation project.