News Release
NPS
Subscribe
 |
What is RSS
|
Contact: Sean McGinty, 202-941-9108
WASHINGTON – The National Park Service (NPS) is taking steps to revitalize Shepherd Parkway. With the help of stakeholders and community members, the NPS has completed a development concept plan to enhance future use and enjoyment of Shepherd Parkway. This plan proposes ways to improve safety, connectivity, park conditions and opportunities for people to recreate in the park.
Originally acquired to construct a parkway that would connect all the civil war forts in the District, Shepherd Parkway today includes 205 acres of forested greenspace and sites such as Parkland, Fort Carroll and Fort Greble. This area includes forested greenspace, historic sites and areas for outdoor recreation. It also features open spaces and views of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers.
This development concept plan is the first step in NPS efforts to improve Shepherd Parkway. This plan lays out options for park improvements, which were developed through a public engagement process. These options will be further explored and refined in the design process for sections of the park. Specific concept plan elements include the following:
- A series of trails, with options for a natural or more urban trail experience.
- A blazed trail within the park’s wooded area connecting to the under-construction I-295 shared-use path.
- Improved signage, communication, and security measures to prevent dumping.
- Enhanced scenic views.
- Enhanced interpretation of Civil War forts, emphasized by improved trail connections.
- Flexible open green space for community gatherings, picnics and play.
The NPS will implement this plan in stages over several years and plans to start the design process for the Parkland area next year. For Parkland, the NPS is considering two options that create zones for different activities, including an expanded children’s play area, a flexible event space and pavilions and a defined gateway into the park. The entire Shepherd Parkway Development Concept Plan can be found at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/shepherdpkwy_dcp
Last updated: December 23, 2020