Trail Event 0n Saturday, April 18th

The Ride to Provide will be taking place on the trail from 9:00am to 1:00pm on 4/18/15. Start is at Reston Town Center and riders can do a 10, 20, 35, or 53 mile ride. Riders head west. Start times are staggered for different ride lengths.

Trail Event--Sunday, April 25

Paul’s Ride for Life – a fun bike ride for everyone!

WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 2015

7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.   Registration open (packet and bib pick-up, onsite registration)
7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.   Ride (rolling start)
11:30 a.m.   Closing ceremony & raffle drawing

Rain or shine!

Download the RIDE DAY FACT SHEET and get all the information you need for the ride!

WHERE: Registration, ride start and finish, closing ceremony, and raffle drawing are all at the Reston Town Centeron Democracy Street between Library and Explorer in front of The Bike Lane (bike shop) in Reston, VA. Download a pdf map of the Reston Town Center for location and parking garages.

ROUTE: Start at Reston Town Center on Democracy Street. All rides are out and back heading west along theWashington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail. The route is paved asphalt. The ride includes 10, 20, and 1/2 Century +2 mile options. Volunteers will be at several rest stops along the way to cheer you on and nourish you with goodies. We’ve even heard a rumor that cookies might be at every rest stop this year!

Trail Event--Sunday March 29th

^{7th annual} Walter L. Mess
W&OD TRAIL 5K
Sunday, March 29, 2015 - 4:00 pm
On Washington & Old Dominion Trail from Oak Street to Shreve Road to Little Falls Street and back Start & finish at American Legion Post 130, 400 North Oak Street, Falls Church, Virginia. In memory of Walter L. Mess, chairman emeritus of Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority 
www.SafetyAndHealthFoundation.org/wod

Trail to be cleared of Snow this winter

According to the FALLS CHURCH NEWS PRESS "The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority will clear the Washington & Old Dominion Trail of snow this winter, says Chris Pauley, the director of park operations. The trail, owned and operated by the park authority, runs through Falls Church and is widely used by bikers, runners, walkers, skaters, and dog walkers."  See complete story at

http://fcnp.com/2014/12/23/in-case-of-snow-45-mile-wod-trail-will-be-cleared-f/

Trail Event November 27

The Giving Thanks 5K is on Thanksgiving morning. Expect more trail traffic in Vienna trail area (west of Ayr Hill) between about 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Most of the course is on the trail, although it starts on hilly neighborhood streets.  Race supports wounded warriors. 

Trail improvements at Vienna Community Center

As reported in the November 20, 2014 Sun Gazette, ...
"Trail Upgrades:  Salgado [Vienna Parks and Recreation Director Cathy Salgado] also updated the Council regarding plans to shift the location of the Washington & Old Dominion Regional Trail near the community center.  The  trail will be widened to 18 feet near the center and will have a 1.5-foot-wide gravel shoulder in some areas.  Officials hope to add an S-curve to the trail shortly before it intersects with busy Park Street an add 6-inch-tall 'teardrop' islands in the middle of the trail on either side of the street."

Connector Trail to open Oct 25

The Meadow Lark Garden Connector Trail is scheduled to open the weekend of October 25. This connector trail is near mile marker 14.5; between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road. 1.5 miles long, the Meadowlark Connector Trail provides a link to the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. This trail section is paved. Getting to the Gardens from the connector requires using a short road ssection. The 95-acre Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, open daily year-round. Walking paths wind around ponds, native trees, wildflowers, a butterfly garden, a Korean cultural garden, and many other visual sites.

Trail Paving results in gravel detour

Paving has begun from Crestview west and trail users from west being detoured to gravel at Sterling Road. Skinny tire bikes can't negotiate there well.

Evening Trail Event--Tuesday, Sept 9th

The Mayor and Town Council of the Town of Herndon cordially invite you to attend a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate the Washington and Old Dominion Trail lighting project Tuesday, September 9, 2014 8 o’clock in the evening W&OD trail at the Herndon Caboose (near 765 Lynn Street, Herndon)

Trail Event--Sunday, August 17

Just a heads up on the Leesburg 5k/20k being held this coming Sunday 8/17 starting at 7:30AM. Runners will be using the W&OD trail between mm 34 in Leesburg and 39.5 at Paeonian Springs so the area will be extremely congested.

Trail Event--Sunday, August 24

RBC Century Date: Sunday August 24, 2014 Time: 6:30 am - 5:00 pm Location: eastbound W&OD Leesburg-Reston Notes: Sunday August 24nd Reston Century Event from 6:30 AM to 5 PM. Approximately 1200 riders start at Reston Town Center. The portion of the W&OD used for this event is from Grace Street in Herndon to Ashburn Road (westbound leg) and returning from Leesburg to Reston Town Center via trail in its entirety (eastbound leg).

Trail Event for May 24

Civil War hike in Reston from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill Road. This is the monthly hike conducted by 12 Civil War enthusiasts from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Another Trail Event for May 17

Turtle Trot 5k in Arlington from 8 AM to 1 PM. 250 runners expected for this event and the route will be from Bluemont Park out west to area of Madison Manor Park (near pedestrian bridge over I-66) and returning to Bluemont Park.

Trail Event for May 17

Spinal Research Foundation "We've Got Your Back Run" from 8 AM to 11 AM. 800 participants expected and the route will be from NVCC in Reston (off the trail) down to Sunrise Valley Drive (off the trail) and returning to NVCC. Not all the trail will be used for the event.

Trail Event for May 10

Green Lizard Bike-a-thon from 9 AM to 6 PM. 250 participants expected and the route will be from Herndon to Purcellville and back.

Trail Event May 16th

Expect heavy trail usage for Bike-to-Work day on Friday, May 16th.

April Trail Events

* St. John's Millenium Bike Ride on April 5th (Saturday). 30 riders cycling from Vienna to Reston and returning to Vienna. Event from 9 AM to 12 noon. * Family 5k and Fun Run on April 6th (Sunday). 325 runners starting in area of Ayr Hill Road (off of the trail), entering trail at Mill Street (near the western entering/leaving Vienna sign). They will go about 1/2 mile east then turn around. Event from 8 AM to 10 AM. * Loudoun Half and 8k on April 13th (Sunday). 500-600 participants. Runners will use the Smith Switch to Claiborne Parkway section of trail. Event from 7 AM to 12 noon (most of the event is off trail). * Wounded Warrior/Soldier Ride on April 19th (Saturday). Approximately 50 riders will ride the trail from Herndon Community Center to Douglass Community Center in Leesburg and return to Herndon. Event from 8 AM to 3 PM. * Civil War Hike on April 19th (Saturday). One dozen (12) hikers in Civil War attire marching from Wiehle Avenue in Reston to Hunter Mill Road and back (and forth). Event from 9 AM to 5 PM. * Ride to Provide on April 19th (Saturday). 600 riders cycling from Reston Town Center out to Purcellville and back. Event from 8 AM to 3 PM. * Vale Walk-a-thon on April 26th (Saturday). 100 walkers will walk starting in Vienna, turnaround at mile marker 21 1/2 in Herndon and returing to Vienna (marker 10). Event from 8 AM to 12 noon. * Walk/Run/Ride for LIFE on April 26th (Saturday). 250 participants will begin at Grace Presbyterian Church at Cedar Lane and turn around at Maple Ave (Rt. 123). Event from 8 AM to 12 noon; also group is aware of Vale event. * Run Me Home 5k run on April 26th (Saturday). 350 participants will run from Catoctin Elementary School in Leesburg (near King Street) and will enter trail here. Turnaround point is at marker 36 1/2 and will exit trail at Catoctin Circle. Event from 7:30 AM to 9 AM. * Paul's Ride for Life event on April 26th (Saturday). About 350 participants from Reston Town Center out to Purcellville and back (depending on distance). Trail portion starts around 8 AM ends by noon or so with after-party of sorts at Reston Town Center.

Trail Event--March 30

W&OD Trail 5K in memory of Walter L. Mess Sunday, March 30, 2014 4:00 PM W&OD Trail - at Oak Street 400 North Oak Street Falls Church , VA

Trail Event for May 3--Falls Church Family Bike Day

Announcing the 1st Falls Church Family Bike Day – May 3, 2014! At just 2.2 square miles, our Little City is easily navigated by bicycle. Our community has a tremendous asset running right through it in the W&OD trail. Increased bike use by our children has many benefits - more local shopping, less pressure on crowded school busses, a greater sense of community, reduced demand for parking spaces, and of course more exercise. With information booths followed by a family bicycle ride on the W&OD trail and through the city, Falls Church Family Bike Day on Saturday May 3rd will show off these benefits and feature important bike safety and tips (such as trail usage, street crossing, and group riding) aimed at elementary school aged children and their families. How can you help? We would love your support to participate in and publicize the event. The start and end point will feature music, activities, and booths from our sponsors and relevant groups. We are not seeking financial contributions, but we are seeking participation (activities and booths) and donations for raffle prizes. Booths can be used to promote local businesses or community organizations that have an interest in bike safety, education, fitness, or shopping local. Please “like” and share our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FallsChurchFamilyBikeRide If you would like to participate, please email me back and let me know how: ___ Help promote the event (post flyers, share in your newsletter and social media) ___ Have a booth ___ Donate raffle items ___ Volunteer ___ Other??? Thanks, Erik Pelton (erik@erikpelton.com]

Trail Event, Saturday, April 26

Paul's Ride for Life 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Registration open 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Ride (rolling start) 11:30 a.m. Closing ceremony & raffle drawing Folks can also volunteer to marshall or help otherwise by emailing paulsridevolunteers@gmail.com.

Second meeting on proposal for education building and public restrooms

A second meeting will be held tonight to discuss the proposal for Phoenix Bikes to build a new education building and public restrooms on Walter Reed Dr. The meeting is at 7pm at Park Operations Building, 2700 South Taylor St, Arlington. Why not attend to hear more about the project?

Coming to the W&OD near MP 0... just saw this, so it's after the meeting, but still a good thing to have down at that end.

Restoration Complete?

The depot at Old Reston Avenue looks like it is finally restored. For years its foundation was crumbling and the building sagged. It now has a new foundation, floor, door, and paint. The Park Authority has yet to announce their plans for this building. One trail user suggested that it should be open on weekends housing a volunteer historian that would talk about railroad and trail history. Another user suggested that the Friends use it as concession stand to raise money for trail improvements. Perhaps the Park Authority should hear more ideas?

Trail Event - October 12

Title: CATOCTIN Crescent Assoc. 5K Run, 1K Walk Date: Saturday October 12, 2013. Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Location: Douglas School, Market St., Leesburg. Notes: Out to Battlefield Parkway and back on W&OD.

Clearing of invasive plants along trail

"A portion of land along the W&OD Trail near Bon Air Park may look rather rough after having been stripped of plant life over the past few weeks. But it’s actually part of the county’s plan to restore the land." See Arlington Now article at http://www.arlnow.com/2013/10/04/land-restoration-project-along-wod-trail/

Jogger and Cyclist Suffer Life-Threatening Injuries in Trail Crash

Jogger and Cyclist Suffer Life-Threatening Injuries in Trail Crash Posted: 02 Oct 2013 12:14 PM PDT By FALLS CHURCH CITY OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS and FALLS CHURCH TIMES STAFF October 2, 2013 A jogger and a cyclist, both enjoying the Falls Church City section of the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, collided on Sunday near Little Falls Street and suffered life-threatening injuries, police say. The incident occurred shortly after noon. It remains under investigation, but initial reports received by police say it happened when the jogger attempted to pass people walking and was hit by a cyclist traveling the opposite direction. Both are still being treated at local hospitals. Falls Church City Police Chief Mary Gavin announced the additional deployment of bicycle and motorcycle officers along the trail to promote education and enforcement of park and traffic laws. Officials say an increase in usage of the trail, from casual walking to commuting via bicycle, has created more risk for hazards and accidents to occur. Another possible reason the risk is rising is the frequent failure of many users to follow the trail rules. Cyclists frequently ride too fast and weave in and out of pedestrians, and some pedestrians walk on the wrong side. "I am deeply worried and afraid for my safety when I am on the trail and users are not following the rules," said Cricket Moore, an avid trail user and City resident. In response to the influx of concerns, Falls Church Police were awarded a $2,400 safety grant from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles specifically to deploy officers for traffic education and enforcement in shared-use areas such as the W&OD Trail. City Police encourage the safe use of the trail and emphasize that traffic control signs, including stop signs, are in place to regulate the trail traffic. Stop signs on the trail are enforced through the Code of Virginia §46.2-924 and Falls Church City Code Section 26-109. The 1.5 mile section of the trail within the City of Falls Church is unique in that it crosses roadways several times, causing cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists to encounter one another far more often that on other stretches of the trail. Police remind trail users that cyclists are required to wear helmets, stop at stop signs, and announce when they are passing. They also suggest users move off the trail if they choose to stop. Additionally, they warn that racing or competitive speed training is not permitted on the trail; that pedestrians have the right of way unless otherwise posted; and that users should ride at speeds appropriate for the trail's congested nature.

Trail Event, Sunday September 29

Teddy BEAR 5K & 1K Fun Walk/RUN Date: Sunday September 29, 2013 Time: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Location: American Legion Post 130, 400 Oak St., Falls Church

Major trail event on September 15

Green Lizard Cycling of Herndon will be hosting their 1st annual Fun Ride Bike-A-Thon on Sunday September 15th 2013. This ride is to support the Herndon High School’s The Pride of Herndon Marching Band as they prepare for their upcoming appearance in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Waikiki, Hawaii on December 7, 2013. The half century ride will start and finish at Green Lizard Cycling in Historic Downtown Herndon and will follow the Washington & Old Dominion Trail from Herndon to Purcellville and back. Riders may also choose an abbreviated 25 mile ride which will turn around in Leesburg on the same W&OD Trail. The ride is supported with rest stops, water, bike mechanics and medical assistance if necessary.

Trail Lighting in Herndon

The Herndon Town Council will hold a public hearing on the lighting of the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) trail in the Town of Herndon on Tuesday, September 24th in the Ingram Council Chambers, 765 Lynn Street. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. Following a presentation by the engineering consultants, JMT, Council will be asked to approve the project and direct staff to proceed with procurement and installation. The public is welcome to provide written comments in advance, c/o the Town Clerk, PO Box 427, Herndon, VA 20172 or to town.clerk@herndon-va.gov. In addition, the public may speak that evening for up to three minutes when this item is called. The Council will discuss this item at their work session on Tuesday, September 17th in the Hoover conference room at the same address above. This is an open, public meeting which you are also welcome to attend, however there are no comments from the audience permitted at work sessions. If you have any questions or comments before that date, please feel free to contact: Cindy S. Roeder Director, Parks and Recreation Department 703-435-6800 x2123 fax 703-318-8652

Trail Event for Sunday, Sept 8

Whole Foods Kids 1K & Trail Cleanup. Date: Sunday September 8, 2013. Time: 7:00 am - 11:00 am. Location: Vienna & Reston. Notes: Whole Foods in Reston and Vienna will be doing a Kids 1K run and a trail clean up. Run will start and end in Vienna; cleanup will be along the trail between Vienna and Reston.

Gallows Road crossing light

VDOT is aware of the long cycle time of the trail crossing signal at Gallows and is working on it.

Tail Event--Sunday. September 22

The Herndon Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring its 2nd annual Herndon Kids Triathlon on Sunday 9/22 starting at the Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave, at 7am. Contact Thomas Schoenauer (thomas.schoenauer@herndon-va.gov) with any questions. Sign up online at sign-up genius for this event: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E4DAEAA2CA46-herndon.

Trail Paving scheduled

Just a heads up that the trail is scheduled to be repaved starting August 19th from Crestview Drive in Herndon to Private Drive in Reston (one block west of Isaac Newton).

Trail Event on Sunday August 25

Reston Bike Club Century Date: Sunday August 25, 2013 Time: 6:30 am - 5:30 pm (GMT-05.00) Eastern Time (US & Canada) Location: eastbound W&OD Leesburg-Reston Notes: Sunday August 22nd Reston Century Event from 6:30 AM to 5 PM. Approximately 1200 riders start at Reston Town Center. The portion of the W&OD used for this event is from Grace Street in Herndon to Ashburn Road (westbound leg) and returning from Leesburg to Reston Town Center via trail in its entirety (eastbound leg).

Progress being made on Old Reston Ave Station Restoration

Trail Event Saturday, July 27

The WOD Friends 10 k event (for runners and walkers), will be held this Saturday, 27 July, starting at Centennial Park, 131 Church Street in Vienna. After the preliminaries, the event will get under way at about 6:30 pm. The route will run on the trail from Church St west to Clark's Crossing (ca mm 13.3?), where it will leave the trail for a short bit on the road before returning to the trail, then out to Hunter Mill Rd and a turn around and back to the finish at Ayr Hill Rd in Vienna.

Major trail event on September 15

Green Lizard Cycling of Herndon will be hosting their 1st annual Fun Ride Bike-A-Thon on Sunday September 15th 2013. This ride is to support the Herndon High School’s The Pride of Herndon Marching Band as they prepare for their upcoming appearance in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Waikiki, Hawaii on December 7, 2013. The half century ride will start and finish at Green Lizard Cycling in Historic Downtown Herndon and will follow the Washington & Old Dominion Trail from Herndon to Purcellville and back. Riders may also choose an abbreviated 25 mile ride which will turn around in Leesburg on the same W&OD Trail. The ride is supported with rest stops, water, bike mechanics and medical assistance if necessary.

Friday, May 17 Trail event

Expect to see very heavy use of the trail doing morning and evening hours as thousand of individuals cycle to work. Bike to Work Day information can be found at http://www.biketoworkmetrodc.org/; including locations of the pit stops. Register to get a free BTWD t-shirt at the pitstop of your choice.

Trail Event for April 27

Paul's Ride For Life Date: Saturday April 27, 2013 Time: 7:00 am - 2:00 pm (GMT+00:00) Notes: Sat., April 27, 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Ride a 10-, 20-, or 50-mile course along the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, between Reston and Purcellville, for the fifth annual Paul's Ride for Life, a WABA event partnership. Registration starts at 7 a.m. at Reston Town Center. Registration proceeds and donations will go to the Wasington Regional Transplant Community.

Falls Church Patch Reported

Now that spring weather is finally here, many people are taking to the W&OD Trail on foot and bicycle. With more than two million users traveling along the trail annually, there are several chances for accidents. In August, a cyclist traveling along the trail through the City of Falls Church was injured when he collided with a car where the trail and Great Falls Street intersect. Falls Church City Police Officer James Brooks said the cyclist didn’t stop at the intersection and was determined to be at fault. The cyclist wasn’t severely injured and Brooks hopes no one cycling along the trail ever is. “If I’m here for an hour or so, I can give out four to five tickets to cyclists for failing to stop at the intersections,” Brooks said. Brooks is one of the city’s four certified bicycle officers. The group patrols around the Eden Center and throughout the city including along the portion of the W&OD Trail that goes through Falls Church. According to Falls Church City law, a cyclist can be given a $25 ticket for biking with headphone earplugs in both ears, speeding or not wearing a helmet if you are 14-years-old or younger, among other violations. Under state law, cyclists can be fined for not stopping at a stop sign intersecting with a road. There are no official records of accidents along the trail. Dozens of cyclists zipped along the W&OD Trail in Falls Church Wednesday, most of them stopping where the trail intersects with Grove Avenue. One cyclist continued through the intersection without stopping and would have continued on her journey if not for Brooks stopping her to give her a warning. “The reason we ask them to stop is for safety,” Brooks said. “There is some confusion because they don’t realize they need to come to a complete stop.” Karl Mohle, park manager for the W&OD Trail – which is owned and operated by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority – said there are about 75 people in the volunteer trail patrol – all from the Friends of the W&OD Trail – that are out daily enforcing rules and helping with minor bicycle repairs. These days, Mohle said the trail is filled with people out enjoying the weather. He said people should be courteous of others and traffic laws while using the trail. “Try to go easy, a lot of people are in a rush,” Mohle said. “People want to go out after being cooped up all winter.” For City of Falls Church laws for cyclists, click here. For statewide laws for cyclists, click here. Related Topics: City of Falls Church Police Department, W&OD Trail, W&OD Trail patrol, and northern virginia regional park authority

Belmont Ridge Road crossing

From VDOT: (Photos by Bob Evens, Trail Patorller) In case you were not aware, I wanted to let you know that today we turned on the RRFB (rectangular rapid-flashing beacon) at Belmont Ridge Rd. and the W&OD Trail. Attached is a photo of the device in operation. It is our first RRFB in Loudoun County. The RRFB is designed to flash in a quick alternating pattern when trail users press a button. The project includes flashers at the crosswalk and about 500 feet in advance in both directions, so drivers get plenty of advance warning when a trail user is present. This week we will start a fairly intensive round of field data collection, helping us understand how motorists and trail users react to the new device. The data collection will occur a few additional times during the next year to see what changes occur over time. We will also be able to compare the results with similar data collected after the zig-zag markings were installed in 2009. Following are a few points we want trail users and drivers to know: For trail users: · Trail users need to press the pushbutton to activate the flashing lights. Cyclists usually can press the buttons without dismounting, and they are within convenient reach of pedestrians as well. Studies from other areas have shown that drivers yield to trail users as much as four times as often when lights flash only "on demand". · Trail users should continue to wait for a safe gap in traffic before proceeding across the road. The flashing lights do not guarantee that motorists will stop. For drivers: · When the lights are flashing, drivers can be sure a trail user is nearby, and they should be prepared to yield or encounter stopped vehicles as they approach the crosswalk. Not all trail users will press the button to activate the flashers, so motorists should continue to be alert as they approach the crossing even when the lights are not flashing. Randy Dittberner, P.E., PTOE · Regional Traffic Engineer · Virginia Department of Transportation · Northern Region · 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA, 22030 · 703-259-2353 · randy.dittberner@vdot.virginia.gov

Construction Activities Along Trail

According to the "W&OD FLYER" In the coming weeks there will be a couple of projects along the trail, which are as follows: The section of trail from approximately Crestview Drive in the Town of Herndon to Private Drive in Reston is tentatively scheduled to be repaved. Exact locations are to be determined but the work is slated to start later this spring. Repaving of Oak Street in Falls Church is scheduled to begin the week of April 15th. Please note that the road (not the trail in this section) is to be repaved. The work is anticipated to take about one week from start to finish. Please exercise caution at these project locations once they begin. If you have any questions contact the trail office at (703) 729-0596.

Old Reston Ave Depot Restoration

As you can see from the photos the footings/foundation and flooring all have to be replaced.

Old Reston Ave RR structure Renovations Begin

After years of the building sinking and decaying, renovations have finally begun to save this W&OD structure.

Extended Hours Details

Friday, March 1, 2013 W&OD Trail Announces Extended Hours The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority is excited to announce that for the very first time, cyclists and pedestrians will now have access to the W&OD Trail beyond normal daylight hours. This extended hours program goes into affect as of today, March 1, 2013. The new W&OD Trail hours are from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., from Shirlington in Arlington County, all the way to the western town limit of Herndon in Fairfax County. Previously, the trail was considered off limits once the sun set. “I am happy to see that NVRPA sees the W&OD as the premiere bike route in the region,” said Allen Muchnick, a board member at the Virginia Bicycling Federation. “This pilot program will help many cyclists that want to use their bikes for transportation and not just recreation.” NVRPA has accordingly created a few new rules to ensure that the extended hours are as safe as possible for its users. For cyclists, riders are required to wear reflective clothing that can be easily seen from the front and rear. All bicycles must be equipped with at least one white headlight light that is visible in clear weather from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a red reflector visible from 600 feet to the rear. Additionally bicycles must be equipped with a taillight visible from a distance of at least 500 feet. This taillight may be affixed to the bicycle or rider and may be steady or blinking. Pedestrians, are required to wear reflective clothing that can be easily seen from the front and rear and must carry a light or wear a flashing light. In addition, NVRPA notes that exceptional care should be taken when crossing highways including obeying all laws and posted signage. Trail users are also required to follow all existing rules and regulations governing the use the trail. “As we all look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint, and improve both our health and environment, cycling to work is one great option. We want to be part of the solution, and help make this kind of healthy choice an option,” said NVPRA Executive Director Paul Gilbert. “Making the W&OD available during commuting hours is a significant step in the movement to encourage more non-motorized transportation.” NVRPA has posted nearly a dozen signs along the extended hours route to help make riders and pedestrians aware of the rules governing the new hours.

Extended Use Hours for Trail

New signs have appeared along the trail announcing extended hours and rules for using the trail during those hours--lights and reflectors for both cyclists and walkers.

Saturday, April 27 Event

Paul's Ride for Life Ride a 10-, 20-, or 50-mile course along the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, between Reston and Purcellville, for the fifth annual Paul's Ride for Life, a WABA event partnership. Registration starts at 7 a.m. at Reston Town Center. Registration proceeds and donations will go to the Wasington Regional Transplant Community. Date: Sat., April 27 Time: 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Location: Reston Town Center

Railroad history and pictures

A new book on the W&OD railroad has been issued. “Images of Rail: Washington & Old Dominion Railroad” written by David A. Guillaudeu with the forward by Paul E. McCray (former Park Manager). The book contains a great history of the railroad and lots of pictures. It is well worth checking out.

March 24th Trail Event in Falls Church

5th annual Walter L. Mess W&OD TRAIL 5K Sunday, March 24, 2013 - 4:00 pm On Washington & Old Dominion Trail from Oak Street to Shreve Road to Little Falls Street and back Start & finish at American Legion Post 130 400 North Oak Street, Falls Church, Virginia In honor of the 100th birthday of Walter L. Mess, chairman emeritus of Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority www.SafetyAndHealthFoundation.org/wod

Woman assaulted on Trail

Reported assault on trail. See Reston Patch article: http://reston.patch.com/articles/police-woman-assaulted-on-w-od-trail

Trail Improvements Recommend for Falls Church

Through 2012 the Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation studied ways to improve the trail within the City Limits. They recommend safety improvements, additional shelters, aesthetic enhancements, and better signage directing trail users to City businesses and services. Their report can be read at http://fallschurch-va.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=2&clip_id=431.

Proposed changes in Herndon

A recent post on the Friends web page outlines proposed changes to the trail in Herndon. The Department of Parks and Recreation of the Town of Herndon seeks public comment on its submission of a Recreation and Trails Program (RTP) grant application to the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. At a future date, when the comment period has passed (after 9/25/12), a public hearing concerning the matter will be held. Through the installation of lighting, this project, identified in the Town’s Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Years 2013-2017, seeks to facilitate the nighttime use of segments of the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail in the Town of Herndon. Approximately 50 light posts, in addition to the number of above-ground transformers needed to power them, are to be installed along the Trail in order to illuminate 3,800 feet of a 2.4 mile section in the Town of Herndon -- that portion which extends from Ferndale Avenue to Van Buren Street. All required wiring will be placed underground, and the lights will be equipped with timing devices in order to regulate their hours of operation. During a second phase of the project, approximately 30 more lights will be installed along an additional 2,200 feet (from Ferndale Avenue to Crestview Drive). The type of lighting fixture and the locations of the poles will be made available when the engineering design is initiated. The public may submit comments on this proposed project between 8/23/12 and 9/25/12 at 5:00 p.m. The Department of Parks and Recreation will accept these comments by postal mail (Town of Herndon Parks and Recreation, c/o W&OD Trail Lighting, Project PO Box 427, Herndon, VA 20172), fax (703-318-8652), or e-mail. All comments (1) must be made in writing, (2) must be received during the designated period, and (3) must include the name, mailing address, and telephone number of not only the commenter but also (if applicable) of any persons represented by him/her.

Of Possible Interest

Cyclist gets ticket dismissed-

http://fabb-bikes.blogspot.com/2012/11/w-stop-sign-ticket-dismissed.html

Safety Improvements on the W&OD

From the NVRPA:

http://northernvirginiaregionalparkauthority.cmail2.com/t/ViewEmail/y/6CDAD390E101251D/53FA168802C1B50E74AF8F7A76570606

From The WashCycle:

"Here's more good news. $2.3 million has been allocated to build a W&OD Trail
overpass at Wiehle Avenue. It was funded as part of improvements identified in
the Reston Metro Access Group study, in which FABB participated several years
ago. "In the interim, $46,000 was allocated for installing a raised median and
additional signage there. This is a relatively low cost measure that would help
slow motorist at the crosswalk, especially those using the left turn lane."

http://www.thewashcycle.com/
 

New parking at Belmont Ridge Road

The parking area where the Trail crosses Belmont Ridge Road (mile marker 29.5) has been moved further north. The picture below looks northwesterly across Belmont Ridge Road showing both the old area -- now fenced off -- and the new area a few yards away.

Trail Mix--Saturday October 20

Looking for a fun, non-competitive and untimed running and biking event? The Great Skedaddle is a 3.1 mile distance run for runners, joggers, and walkers and a 5 mile and 10 mile route for bikers on the historic W&OD trail. The Great Skedaddle will start at 10:30 a.m. at Farmwell Middle School in Ashburn, VA on Saturday, October 20th. Train for an upcoming race or just enjoy a day on the trail with your family and friends. Like our page for a chance to win 3 1-Month Fitness Memberships at Equinox Fitness Club in Tyson's Corner and 3 FREE Trail Mix T-Shirts! Volunteers Needed: We would like to get a team of 10 together as course marshals, but we can also use extra hands at a water stop or with the start/finish line. More information about getting involved can be found here: http://www.dominiontrailmix.com/volunteer.htm Amy Gardner Director of Volunteers for Dominion Trail Mix Greater Washington Sports Alliance T: 917-623-2828 (Direct) E: agardner@gwsportsalliance.com

Reston station at the Duck Pond

It has been reported that the Park Authority will be awarding a contract in the next few days to jack up the Reston station, install a foundation and new floor, and repair the deteriorated lower walls and door. The contractor will need to obtain a building permit, so it may take a little while before you see activity on the site.

W&OD Closure in Leesburg

The W&OD Trail will be closed from Catoctin Circle to Wage Drive beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday for President Barak Obama’s campaign rally at the Loudoun County High School. The trail normally closes at dusk. See http://www.leesburgtoday.com/news/article_7362630c-db56-11e1-975b-0019bb2963f4.html for further details.

Vienna Safety Campaign- Channel 7 Report

http://www.wjla.com/articles/2012/06/washington-and-old-dominion-trail-to-become-subject-of-new-campaign-77378.html

FOW&OD 10K

Date: Saturday July 28, 2012 Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Location: Vienna Notes: Friends of the W&OD 10K (6.2 miles) Saturday, July 28, 2012 " 6:30 pm On the W&OD Trail from Old Vienna Train Station to Hunter Mill Road & back The Washington area's only green race -- on a unique flat shady course

Sharing the Trails- things to consider.

A few things to consider about trail use:

http://fabb-bikes.blogspot.com/2012/07/sharing-our-trails-and-avoiding.html

Dirck

June 23 trail event

There is a race staging from the Reston Y that is adjacent to the trail on June 23rd. It's the Reston Runners annual Women's Distance Festival. As is tradition, this is a ladies-only race and you will probably see lots of male volunteers/cheerleaders/course marshals, some of whom will be in Hawaiin shirts and hula skirts. It is a 5K and, if it is the same course they've been using for years now, it uses a combination of the W&OD and other side/neighborhood trails. I believe it is an 8:30 a.m. start. It does not start on the trail; in effort to thin out traffic, the race typically starts in a parking lot and the runners are sent around a couple buildings first. Expect more pedestrian traffic in the vicinity of the Y from about 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Wiehle Avenue Serious Accident

http://fabb-bikes.blogspot.com/2012/05/crash-on-w-trail-at-wiehle-ave.html

Trail Erosion Control Work End Date?

Talked to the folks working along the trail between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road today. They expect to be finished with the bank restoration work at the end of June.

Bike to Work Day - Detour delayed

NVRPA has agreed to delay the closing of the trail between Hunter Mill Rd and Clarks Crossing Rd on Bike to Work  Day so that cyclists passing through the area before 9am will not have to detour along the unpaved sidepath. Normally the trail is closed much earlier. Thanks to NVRPA for helping Bike to Work Day cyclists. As Jeff mentioned in the previous post, there should be an increase in the number of bike commuters on that day (and hopefully in days following BTWD).

Bike to Work Day--Friday, May 18

Expect heavier than normal bike commuter travel on Friday because of the Bike To Work event. The Trail is a main commuter route and the number of cyclist will significantly increase during the hours of 6 a.m to 9 a.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

VDOT Public Hearing and Comment on Project Affecting W&OD Trail

The proposed project is called “Route 7 Truck-Climbing Lane and Operational Improvements” and it includes two roundabouts at the Rt.7 and Rt. 9 intersection near Clarks Gap west of Leesburg. The W&OD Trail crosses Rt. 9 at this location and Trail users would have to cross multiple lanes of the proposed roundabouts. Instead, VDOT is proposing a realignment of the Trail including underpasses to minimize trail user/automobile conflicts. Go to this link to get details and a map. The W&OD realignment is shown on the left side of the map. http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/northernvirginia/route_7_truck-climbing_lane.asp Stop by the public hearing for this project between 6 and 8 p.m. on May 9, 2012 at Loudoun County High School, 415 Dry Mill Road, SW in Leesburg, or comments may be emailed or sent to James C. Zeller, P.E. at 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, 22030 by May 19, 2012.

There's construction on the trail to the west of Leesburg; it's being widened between the Rt 7/15 overpass and where the underground power line begins.

New Member Orientation

The next new member orientation for the Trail Patrol will be held next to the W&OD trail at the intersection of the trail and Old Reston Avenue in Reston, at 9:00 on Saturday, May 19th. Bring a folding chair or something to sit on in case the benches are occupied. The session should last about an hour. New members who have already attended an orientation session do not need to attend.

If you haven't already, you can apply to the Trail Patrol here:

http://www.wodfriends.org/trail_patrol.html

Dirck Harris
Training Coordinator
Dirck_H55@verizon.net
(703) 698-88081

Bike Fest

Reston Bike Fest will be held Saturday, April 28, 2012 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Reston Town Center. Contact the Bike Lane for more information.

Paving Complete east of Vienna but construction continues along Difficult Run

Paving between 495 and Vienna appears to be completed. However, between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road bank stabilization work continues. Trail users are being diverted to the bridle trail. Use caution, the bridle trail is gravel and some sections are soft.

Trail Resurfacing

The trail is being resurfaced between Vienna and Route 495. Some sections of the trail are marked closed but it is unclear whether you can use the adjoining gravel path or need to use the streets to get around the construction. All the workers seem to be at one end so if you approach from the opposite end there will be no one to ask for clarification. Caution is mandatory!

Construction has begun along Difficult Run

Between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road, bank stabilization work has begun just east of Difficult Run where the trail was almost washed out last year. Trail users are being diverted to the bridle trail. Use caution, the bridle trail is gravel and some sections are soft.

Trail Patrol New Member Orientation

The next new member orientation for the Trail Patrol will be held next to the W&OD at the intersection of the trail and Old Reston Avenue in Reston, at 9:30 on Saturday, April 14th. Bring a folding chair or something to sit on in case the benches are occupied. The session should last about an hour.

If you haven't already, you can apply to the Trail Patrol here:

http://www.wodfriends.org/trail_patrol.html

Dirck Harris
Training Coordinator
Dirck_H55@verizon.net
(703) 698-88081

Doggone It

From the Vienna Patch:

A bicyclist reported he struck an unleashed dog around 2 p.m. March 16 while riding along the W & OD Trail at Maple Ave. The rider fell off his bicycle and sustained minor injuries. The dog’s owner collected the animal and ran away from the crash.

http://vienna.patch.com/articles/police-log-4e79414e

March 25th 5K run

Walter Mess Plaza Dedication and 5k Run

On Sunday March 25th at 3 PM there will be a dedication to Walter Mess, Chairman Emeritus of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA). The dedication will occur at American Legion Post 130 building located at 400 North Oak Street, Falls Church, Virginia. The program features Congressman James Moran, City of Falls Church Mayou Nader Baroukh, and NVRPA Chairman Brian Knapp, among other speakers. At 4 PM the "Walter Mess 5k" will begin. For more information please check out the link below:

http://www.safetyandhealthfoundation.org/wod/

Construction Starting

Sometime in the next few months a contractor will be doing bank stabilization work just east of Difficult Run where the trail was almost washed out last year. Trail users will be diverted to the bridle trail. Also, Dominion Power will be doing some major regrading of a small hill next to the trail close to Northside Park.

FOWOD Walk/Run 5K

Date: Sunday March 25, 2012
Time: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm

The Friends of the W&OD are involved in a 5K foot race and a ceremony in honor of Walter Mess, chairman emeritus of NVPA on Sunday, March 25, 2012. Info is here: http://www.safetyandhealthfoundation.org/wod/

Northern Virginia Model Railroaders

The Northern Virginia Model Railroaders will be holding their next open house on March 17th from 1 to 5 pm at the train depot at Mile Marker 11.8 in Vienna (Ayr Hill crossing). See http://www.nvmr.org for further information and details.

Pauls Ride For Life

Pauls Ride For Life is advertising its fourth occurrence on the trail for this April 28th. See http://www.PaulsRideForLife.org for further details.

W&OD Trail from Reston to Vienna

The trail was mostly clear of snow and ice this morning between Reston at Sunrise Valley Dr and Vienna. I didn't see any other cyclists but there was only one stretch just east of Sunrise Valley where there was snow and some ice. However, there may not be some patches of ice where there's been melting and re-freezing.

Trail Patrol New Member Orientation

An orientation session for new members will be held Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 10:00am at the Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston, VA 20190-3311

New members should attend to learn about what the Trail patrol does, requirements for becoming a member, and other information.

Contact:

Dirck Harris
Trail Patrol Training Coordinator
Dirck_H55@verizon.net
(703) 698-8808

Trail Patrol seeks new members

Responsible adult of any physical ability who walks, runs, skates, skis, cycles, rides a wheelchair, sits astride a horse, pushes a carriage, or just strolls on the trail is welcome to become a trail patrol member. The Patrol operates under the sponsorship of the Friends of the W&OD, whose purpose is to support and enhance the Trail. The basic responsibilities of a patrol member are to:

 Promote the safe use of the Trail
 Provide information about the Trail to the public
 Assist Trail users when help is needed

Volunteers should be willing to commit a few hours each month to the Patrol's on-going effort to keep the W&OD Trail safe, to maintain and, hopefully augment the luster of this bright jewel of the region.

Volunteers may choose to serve on the trail or behind the scenes in support of the patrol -- or both. Even a small contribution of your flexibly arranged time will be helpful, and the experience should be both rewarding and fun. If you wish to help in these capacities there is a role you can perform.

For further information please contact the W&OD Trail Office at (703) 729-0596 or WOD@nvrpa.org. To apply on line go to www.wodfriends.org and go to the trail patrol tab.

Giving Thanks 5k--Thursday November 24, 2011

Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Location: Vienna
Notes: "Giving Thanks 5k" event from 8 AM - 10 AM. The 5k runs from approximately the Vienna Train Station out to Clarks Crossing Park then returning to the station. About 400 people expected for this event.

Information on accident needed

I am looking for anybody who may have information on an accident
occurred on October 8th 2011 around 1pm on the WOD trail . Behind Firestation number 6 on Falls church. Just past lee hwy (around mile 6 on the trail)

I spent several days in the hospital as a result of the accident. I do not remember the accident at all and I am hoping to find a witness that can help me piece together what happened then.
thanks,
Santiago Davila
email_adr = santiagodc@live.com

Town of Vienna, Virginia Police Department

Media Information Release
Request for Witnesses to Bicycle vs. Car
Hit and Run Crash
On September 29, 2011 at approximately 3:45 p.m. a white colored Honda
Civic bearing Maryland license plates struck a juvenile bicyclist at the
intersection of Maple Avenue, SE and the Washington and Old Dominion
Trail.
The bicyclist sustained minor injuries but the striking motorist fled from the
scene. The driver of the vehicle that fled is described only as a Hispanic
female.
Anyone with any information regarding this crash is asked to contact MPO
Sheeran at jsheeran@viennava.gov or 703-255-7826.
For further information please contact:
MPO Bill Murray- Town of Vienna Police Department
Public Information Officer at wmurray@viennava.gov or 703-255-6396
See Something? Say Something! Help Police Fight Crime.
Call 9-1-1.

Trail Events--September 24

Pet Carnival

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Loudon HS
Notes: Paws 4 People Puppy Prance & Canine Carnival sponsored by Paws 4 People Foundation. Section of trail to be used is from Loudoun County High School (mile marker 35.5 near bridge) to Foxridge Park. At most a one mile dog walk event. Approx 150 people for this event.

Charity Walk
Time: 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
Location: Vienna-Clark's Xing
Notes: Walk for Growing Hope" sponsored by the Optimist Club of Greater Vienna. It is a walk from the Vienna Town Green out to Clark's Crossing and returning to the Town Green. Approx 250 participants for this event.

Trail Damage

This weeks deluge did a bit of damage to the trail next to Piney Branch, west of Vienna.

Alzheimer's Tour De Canal, Sept 11, 7:30a to 5:00p

The Alzheimer's Association, National Capitol Area, Tour de Canal, has
been moved from the C & O Canal as a two day, 184 mile ride to
a one day ride on the W & OD Trail.

Starting times will be staggered from 7:30 to 2:00, and leave from the Herndon Station parking lot.

Riders will be doing 20, 50, and 90 mile rides.

Rest/water stops will be in Bon Air, Herndon, Leesburg, and Purcillville.

iPod Oblivion

Any of this sound familiar?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10463227

Trees down between Vienna and Reston

There's one large tree down just east of Difficult Run. It's possible to get around it on the shoulder. Another tree is partially blocking the trail just west of Hunter Mill Rd.

Trail Event- August 27

Civil War Hike

Date: Saturday August 27, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Wiehle-Hunter Mill
Notes: Civil War Hike. Monthly hike of Civil War reenactors from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill Road. Time of event is from 9 AM to 5 PM. Approx one dozen hikers for this event.

Trail Event--September 3

Hail the Trail', Saturday, September 3
Hail the Trail, part of Dominion Power's Trail Mix, will be held on Saturday, September 3 from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at 10 different locations along the W&OD trail. Volunteers are needed to support the 'Park Station' Hail the Trail site in Vienna. Volunteers will meet at the Vienna Community Center and help remove trash and invasive species. Each volunteer will receive a free t-shirt! The first 100 volunteers on site will receive a free pastry courtesy of Vienna Fresh Market. Visit Dominion Trail Mix ( http://bit.ly/rafX9Z )for more information. To register as a Hail the Trail participant, visit: http://bit.ly/qnj6dk.

ROAMing?

There were some unusual visitors in Vienna late yesterday afternoon- 30 velomobiles. They started their trip July 28th in Portland, Oregon and ended their journey in Georgetown last night. FABB arranged a stop in Vienna at the caboose and everybody present got a good look at these exotic machines. To give you an idea of how fast they move, the first sighting was in Leesburg on the east side of town; one hour later they were in Vienna- that's from the 32 mile marker to just east of the 12 mile marker. At one point out west going downhill one of the riders recorded a speed of 70mph. A more detailed look at their journey can be found here: http://www.rolloveramerica.eu/

Trail Event--August 21

Reston Bike Club Century
Time: 6:30 am - 5:30 pm
Location: W&OD Leesburg-Reston
Notes: Approximately 1200 riders start at Reston Town Center. The portion of the W&OD used for this event is from Grace Street in Herndon to Ashburn Road (westbound leg) and returning from Leesburg to Reston Town Center via trail in its entirety (eastbound leg).

Construction at Maple Avenue

This picture, looking westward, shows the new intersection with Maple Avenue in Purcellville. The gravel bed coursing leftwards will be the new trail. On the other side, an identical alteration is in process with result that the trail will cross Maple Avenue at a right angle.

Training for New Patrollers

Orientation for new Trail Patrol members will be held at 8:30 AM on Saturday, September 17th, at the intersection of the W&OD and Sandburg St. in Dunn Loring. Bring a chair or something to sit on. The session should last about an hour. No need to bring anything except pen and paper if you want to take a note or two.

If you are interested in becoming a member you should attend. This session gives a basic overview of what the Trail Patrol is and what it does. Please let the training coordinator know if you are going to attend. Contact: Dirck Harris, Patrol Training Coordinator, Dirck_H55@verizon.net

Trail Event- August 14

Leesburg 10/20K Run

Date: Sunday August 14, 2011
Time: 7:00 am - 10:00 am
Location: Dry Mill Road near 4H Fairground to Leesburg
Notes: Leesburg 10k/20k sponsored by Potomac River Running Events Inc.
Approx 1200 people for this event.

Patroller Orientation

Date: Saturday August 13, 2011
Time: 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Location: intersection of W&OD & Sandburg St - Vienna
Notes: All new patroller trainees are encouraged to attend.
If you have questions or want to sign up contact Dirck Harris, Patrol Training Coordinator Dirck_H55@verizon.net

Flooding at Wilson Blvd. underpass

Certainly it will not last very long, but people should be careful at the underpasses.

Arlington, VA at Wilson Blvd.

If that does not look scary look at the video ...