NPS and closed pathways

[elbows]

I'm consistently frustrated by the lack of notification or signage for closures of pathways along the Mall. Right now, there is a fence along the Reflecting Pool path under the elms and another by Washington Monument.

Its true - I eventually find my way to work. But there are plenty of cyclists and path users who have to try and retry routes to figure out which way to go and not all of them live here. They should have a sign before the closure with a map indicating options of what is open.

More importantly, this reminds me of how much things are going to suck when they start shutting down sidewalks and lanes associated with Memorial Bridge.

Is a petition in order?

[dasgeh]

I'm consistently frustrated by the lack of notification or signage for closures of pathways along the Mall. Right now, there is a fence along the Reflecting Pool path under the elms and another by Washington Monument.

Its true - I eventually find my way to work. But there are plenty of cyclists and path users who have to try and retry routes to figure out which way to go and not all of them live here. They should have a sign before the closure with a map indicating options of what is open.

More importantly, this reminds me of how much things are going to suck when they start shutting down sidewalks and lanes associated with Memorial Bridge.

Is a petition in order?

This is a problem every year in the run up to the 4th of July (and every 4 years in the run up to the Inauguration). I don't think a petition would get you very far with NPS, but working within the system might. On the VA side, we've had success building a relationship and working with NPS -- it takes time, but we've seen some great results. WABA might have a point person already with the National Mall (it's a separate "park" so separate admin from the GWMP, on the VA side).

[elbows]

The closure of paths without warning or signage is a lot more frequent than the 4th of July or Inauguration, but if there is optimism that that will not be the case with Memorial Bridge, that is great.


I recognize that GWMP and the Mall are different entities. I've had conversations with the head of GWMP (holy buried name) myself about cycling issues and share guarded optimism. This website suggests that they are at least cognizant.

Hope this gives me the kick in the pants I need to get out of Virginia. #buthighertaxes