I'm familiar with the Franconia and Van Dorn intersection, but I've never biked through there. I can understand your apprehension - wide streets with lots of traffic. You're heading for Eisenhower (which I have ridden) - a pretty good road for bikes, particularly after you get on the MUP. Are you coming from the Springfield direction on Franconia, or from Kingstown on Van Dorn? If I'm not mistaken, there is a MUP on Van Dorn after you get through the intersection - it's getting there that is the problem.