"The Joker in the Deck: The Wilson Bridge"

Time, is more critical in regard to the Beltway than almost any of the other proposals contained in Plan 2020. This is because the Beltway widening project is linked to plans to build a 12-lane replacement for the Wilson Bridge. Construction on the bridge is due to begin in late 2000, long before the first spade of dirt is turned on any Beltway project. The proponents of a wider Beltway, however, will argue that a commitment to a 12-lane Bridge absolutely requires a 12-lane Beltway. They will make every effort to bulldoze through the massive Beltway project on the back of the Wilson Bridge project, as if the two were one, instead of being two separate and distinct undertakings.