News Release

Tree Damage Forces Temporary Closure of George Washington Memorial Parkway Between Belle View Blvd. and Alexandria Ave.

Date: May 19, 2025
Contact: Erin Barlow, 202-578-9118

McLean, Va. — A 2.5-mile stretch of the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) between Belle View Boulevard and Alexandria Avenue remains closed as National Park Service (NPS) and contracted crews continue emergency clearing and safety operations following a powerful storm on Friday evening that brought heavy rainfall and winds reaching 70–80 mph.

Approximately 15 trees fell directly onto the George Washington Memorial Parkway south of Alexandria during the storm, with more trees down in other areas of the park. In addition, dozens more were significantly damaged, with cracked limbs, destabilized root systems, and entanglement in surrounding trees. Before the road can safely reopen, hazardous trees that pose the most immediate risk must be removed. The George Washington Memorial Parkway arborist along with a contracted master arborist are actively assessing and prioritizing the most immediate public safety concerns. Crews are focused on addressing the highest-risk hazards first to reopen the road as soon as it is safe to do so.

“Our top priority is public safety,” said Superintendent Jennifer Madello. “We appreciate the public’s patience as we respond to the storm’s impacts and ensure the area is safe for travel.”

Crews responded on Friday evening and have been working extended shifts daily since Saturday to remove downed trees, debris, and assess and remove the remaining hazards. George Washington Memorial Parkway anticipates that the affected road segment will remain closed through at least the Tuesday morning rush hour. The NPS will reassess conditions and provide an update tomorrow.

Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes and to check www.nps.gov/gwmp for updates.