News Release
NPS Image
News Release Date: October 2, 2026
Contact:
NCR_Communications@nps.gov
MCLEAN, Va. — The National Park Service will temporarily close all southbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway in two sections between Tulane Drive and Alexandria Avenue from Monday, Oct. 5 through Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. Closures will occur during non-rush hour times between 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., one segment at a time, and southbound traffic will detour onto Fort Hunt Road.
The temporary closure will allow NPS crews to safely conduct roadside maintenance, including vegetation trimming to improve sight lines and cleaning. The controlled work area will help reduce conflicts between maintenance operations and the traveling public.
Closure Schedule
Southbound lanes between Tulane Drive and Morningside Lane:
- Oct. 5 and 6
- 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Southbound lanes between Morningside Lane and Alexandria Avenue:
- Oct. 7 and Oct. 8
- 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The schedule is weather dependent and may change as conditions require. The work will not occur during morning and evening rush hours. Northbound lanes will remain open throughout the project.
During each closure, all southbound drivers will have to exit the parkway and follow posted detour signs onto Fort Hunt Road and link back up on the parkway past the work area.
Drivers should plan ahead, expect delays, allow additional travel time and consider alternate routes during the closure periods. Drivers should slow down, remain alert and follow posted signs and directions from workers. Work zones may include crews, vehicles and equipment on the roadway.
About the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The George Washington Memorial Parkway is a scenic roadway honoring the nation's first president while preserving significant cultural and natural resources along the Potomac River from Great Falls to Mount Vernon. The parkway serves millions of visitors and commuters each year and remains an important transportation corridor in the Washington metropolitan area.
About the National Park Service. Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of America’s national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, we safeguard these special places and share their stories with millions of people every year. Learn more at nps.gov.
Last updated: October 2, 2026