Notice to the Public: Partial and Temporary Closure of National Mall and Memorial Parks for Turf Restoration, Washington Monument Grounds

Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 1.5, beginning immediately, the NPS is imposing a temporary closure and public use limit in certain designated parklands at National Mall and Memorial Parks. These areas are delineated in the attached map and will be further delineated by fencing during the times of closures. The duration of these temporary closures vary and are described below. These closures and public use limits are necessary to allow for effective turf rehabilitation and regrowth, as continued foot traffic would interfere with the recovery process. Closures will be lifted as soon as practicable, restoring access to the public. Violation of a closure is prohibited.Specifically, there will be temporary visitor access restrictions of the following locations:

Washington Monument Grounds - North and South (Map 1)

Beginning immediately and continuing through September 10, 2026:

• Closure of turf areas between 17^th Street, Constitution Avenue and Independence Avenue, as reflected in the attached map.

Washington Monument Grounds – West (Map 2)

Beginning immediately and continuing through January 23, 2027:

• The west side of the Washington Monument Grounds, extending from 17^th Street SW to the interior sidewalk, as reflected in the attached map.

The National Park Service appreciates the public’s cooperation in this matter.


Michael Commisso /s/ 8/4/2026
Deputy Superintendent

 

Map 1: Area identified for closure through September 10, 2026

 

Map 2: Area identified for closure through January 23, 2027