Looking south at a grassy median that separates eastbound (far side) and westbound Independence Avenue SW in Washington, D.C., in the United States. Originally named South B Street, Independence Avenue began on the shores of the Anacostia River and ended on the shores of the Potomac River -- then at 15th Street NW. It was only 60 feet wide. But when South B Street was turned into Independence Avenue in 1934, it was widened to 80 feet from 40 feet. When Independence Avenue was extended west to the Lincoln Memorial, this pavement measurement was retained. However, a 55-foot-wide grassy media was inserted between the eastboun and westbound lanes to preserver the park-like appearance of the area.