Lake Accotink trail project to start soon

Construction is set to begin this summer on the Lake Accotink Dam Stream Crossing Project, the Fairfax County Park Authority reports.

The project involves 300 linear feet of asphalt trail improvements and 325 linear feet on an elevated concrete pedestrian crossing over the dam outfall in Lake Accotink Park in Springfield.

The Park Authority contracted with Franco’s Liberty Bridge Inc. to carry out the work. The total project cost, including design, permitting, testing, utilities, construction, and administration, is just over $3 million.

The project is expected to be completed in early 2023.

Related story: Two sites identified for dredging operation at Lake Accotink

The Lake Accotink Loop Trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the county’s park system.

The existing pedestrian and vehicular crossing at the outfall of the Lake Accotink dam floods suddenly and frequently, often stranding trail users and tempting them to wade through swiftly running water.

The trail has had to be reconstructed twice in the past five years due to damage from major storms. This project will provide a permanent solution while improving safety and accessibility for park users.

Residents should expect occasional construction traffic entering and exiting the Accotink Park Road entrance. Portions of the trail will be closed and signs posted during construction.