New traffic patterns took effect Saturday on the George Washington Memorial Parkway for the North Parkway Rehabilitation Project, according to a news release from the National Park Service (NPS).
Commuters can expect lane closures and delays on the stretch of the parkway between I-495 and Route 123 until late 2025 due to the altered traffic patterns. A temporary reversible lane was installed in the median for changing traffic directions, but it will also help to shorten the time needed for the project.
Throughout rush hour from 5:30-9:30 a.m. on weekdays, there will be two lanes southbound and one northbound. For evening rush hour between 2:45-7:15 p.m. there will be two lanes northbound and one lane southbound. While driving during these times, individuals must use the right lane to exit at Route 123 or the CIA Headquarters.
From 9:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on weekdays and weekends, one lane will be open both northbound and southbound. Lanes will be slightly smaller with physical barriers in between to heighten safety, according to the news release. Drivers are advised to maintain the 40 mph speed limit and follow all signs or message boards.
Funding from the Great American Outdoors Act allowed NPS and the Federal Highway Administration to grant a $161 million contract to rehabilitate the northern section of the parkway. The project, initially announced in 2021, will improve safety and water drainage, enhancing the roadway’s driving experience and historic beauty according to the release.
The public can view construction updates on the project webpage with an option to sign up for email notifications about traffic impacts, project meetings and milestones.
(Maps of lane adjustments courtesy of the National Park Service)
After postponing due to weather last week, the NPS will implement the new, temporary traffic pattern on the George Washington Memorial Parkway on Sat, April 22.
Drivers should:
⚠️Observe traffic signs.
🚗Reduce speeds
⌚️Plan for delays.Learn more: https://t.co/TrSXS1wCOJ pic.twitter.com/6rnn3z04IW
— National Parks of Greater Washington, DC (@NPSNewsDC) April 20, 2023