GW Parkway To Remain Closed To Clear Fallen Trees From Storm

ARLINGTON/MCLEAN, VA — The northern section of the George Washington Memorial Parkway is expected to remain closed for at least three more days as crews work to clear trees that were toppled during Saturday’s severe thunderstorm.

The parkway, from Spout Run Parkway in Arlington to Interstate 495 in McLean, is closed, except for the northbound lanes from Route 123 to I-495. Additionally, the southbound lanes of the Spout Run Parkway in Arlington are closed, according to the National Park Service.

“Crews are diligently working to clear fallen trees from the roadway, and these closures are expected to last for the next few days,” the NPS said Monday.

The National Park Service said it has deployed a total of five crews, including its own team, assistance from the National Capital Parks-East, and three additional emergency contracting crews, to clear the northern section of the George Washington Memorial Parkway.

"These closures are necessary to ensure the removal of hazardous trees, including those that have fallen across the roadway and broken limbs that pose a risk to travel lanes," the NPS said. "The recovery work is estimated to be completed within three to four days."

The Washington, D.C. region continues to recover after Saturday's late afternoon storm knocked out power for thousands across the area and toppled trees.

Some Arlington residents are taking advantage of the closures to ride their bikes on the closed lanes of Spout Run Parkway to the George Washington Parkway.

Following Saturday's storms, downed trees also fill Arlington County’s trails, including the Custis Trail, which runs adjacent to Interstate 66.

"We appreciate your patience as crews work to survey and address these areas. Please use caution when using the trails as cleanup will take some time," Arlington County said.

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