Public Notice for a Partial and Temporary Closure of a Portion of the National Mall and Memorial Park for Turf Restoration

Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 1.5, beginning September 1, 2026, through January 24, 2027, 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 and signage during the times of closures. The duration of these temporary closures are described below.

The center turf panels and tree panels of the National Mall require significant restoration due to wear, soil compaction, turf loss, and damage associated both with recent permitted events and sustained high levels of public use. 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.

Because the restoration and associated activities do not reasonably permit multiple occupancy of the impacted areas, all casual visitors, demonstrations and special events will not be allowed in the closed fenced sections of The Mall. Once any area is fenced and closed, people should immediately remove themselves and any personal property from the closed area. A portion of the National Mall hardscape areas will remain open during the period of the project as well as other nearby park areas will remain open to the public and for demonstration and special event activities. Moreover, closures will be lifted as soon as practicable, restoring access to the public. Violation of this closure is prohibited.

Specifically, there will be temporary visitor access restrictions of the following locations:

• From September 1, 2026 at 6:00 a.m. through January 24, 2027 at 5:00 p.m.:
  • Closure of the center turf and tree panels on the National Mall between 3^rd St. SW and 14^th St. SW, as reflected in the attached map. This includes:
    • Center Turf Panels: 29,24,22,20,18, and 16
    • Tree Panels: 1,3,5,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,33,35,37,38,39,40,42, and 43
• From September 16, 2026 at 6:00 a.m. through January 24, 2027 at 5:00 p.m.
  • Closure of the center turf panels 31 and 27 on the National Mall.

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


Kevin L. Griess /s/ 8/11/2026
Superintendent

 

Closed Center Panels

 

Closed Tree Panels

 

Mall Turf Closure Map