CURRENT DETOURS AND CLOSURES
The towpath near Lock 5 (Mile 5) is open.
The towpath in Georgetown (Mile 1 – 0.4) has detours in effect.
Visitors are asked to obey all signage and flaggers, using caution around all work areas.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What is the need for the project?
This project will preserve multiple historic canal infrastructure features across a five mile stretch of the canal. Work at each of the areas will stabilize critical structures to increase safety, resiliency, reliability, and sustainability. This work is essential to maintaining the watered canal experience in the lower five miles of canal through the Washington, DC portion into Georgetown. If this project were not completed, operations of the water flow into this section of the canal would be difficult.
What does the project include?
This project includes removing debris from the feeder channel - the gateway for water being diverted from the Potomac River into the historic canal. It includes repairs to critical water regulation structures such as the Guard Lock, Lock 1, 2, 5, and the Inlet Lock. It includes replacement of the bridge over the Inlet Lock and Lock 5. It includes repair of multiple historic stone walls along Level 4 of the canal in Georgetown.
Where will the project take place?
There will be multiple work sites along the canal in Washington, DC and the southernmost end of the park in Montgomery County, MD. The two primary work areas will be at the Feeder Channel, Guard Lock, Inlet Lock, and Lock 5 area (Mile 5) & the others main focus in Georgetown at the Level 4 walls, Lock 1, and Lock 2 (Mile 0.4-1).
When will the project begin and end?
The project began in February 2024 and is anticipated to continue through Winter 2025/2026, weather dependent.
How will this project impact park visitors?
The parking area at Lift Lock 5 along the Clara Barton Parkway will be closed for the duration of work in that area. Alternative parking is available at the Lock 6 parking area as well as other nearby Lock parking areas along the Clara Barton Parkway. Sections of the towpath in Georgetown will be closed with detours in place as shown in the above detour mapping.
How will this project benefit park visitors?
This project will result in a reliable water regulation system and resilient canal infrastructure that are preserved for current & future generations. It is vital to ensuring the long-term functionality of the historic structures throughout the lower five miles of the canal.
How will this project impact natural and cultural resources?
Every project the NPS executes undergoes review by a multidisciplinary team to ensure compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other federal, state, and local laws.
What is the park doing to protect those resources during the project?
NPS resource protection experts, engineers, and the contractor’s team will be monitoring the stone and towpath work along this stretch of the towpath, along with contractor’s operations and visitor safety team during the project with the goal of safely protecting the environment surrounding the project. Every project undertaken by the NPS is conducted in compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA), the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), and other regulations.
How much does the project cost?
The construction contract was awarded in 2023 for $12.7 million and was funded from the National Park Service’s Line Item Construction Program.
Who can I contact if I have further questions regarding the project?
Additional questions are to be directed to the park headquarters at 301-739-4200.
