Beach Drive Closure Extended Through Labor Day For Environmental Study

CHEVY CHASE, MD — The northern section of Beach Drive, beginning at the Maryland state line and continuing in to Washington, D.C., will not reopen as planned.

It will remain closed to cars thought Sept. 5, the National Parks Service announced. It was initially scheduled to reopen April 30.

"The National Park Service is still conducting studies for the environmental assessment for the proposed closure of the northern section of Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park," said NPS.

Parts of Beach Drive have been closed to give pedestrians and cyclists more space during the pandemic.

"This extension will ensure that we maintain recreational opportunities this summer, through Labor Day," NPS' announcement says. "The NPS will continue to limit drivers’ access to this section of Beach Drive until a final determination is made."

Here are the sections of Beach Drive that are still closed, according to NPS:

• Broad Branch Road NW and Joyce Road NW
• Picnic Grove #10 and Wise Road NW
• West Beach Drive NW and Boundary Bridge

Here are the areas of Beach Drive that are open:

• Between the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway and Broad Branch Road NW
• Joyce Road NW and Picnic Grove #10
• Wise Road to West Beach Drive