Virginia’s Colonial National Historical Park, a beacon of American history, has recently made an announcement that has left many visitors, especially RVers and campers, adjusting their plans.
The much-anticipated 2023 Parkway Recreation Days, an event that has been a highlight since its inception in 2020, has been postponed. This decision comes in light of the ongoing Colonial Parkway Rehabilitation project, which has led to several closures and detours along the parkway.
For many, the Parkway Recreation Days represented more than just an event; it was an opportunity to relive history. The parkway’s temporary closure to motor vehicles allowed pedestrians and cyclists to traverse the scenic route along the James River, soaking in its rich history and natural beauty.
However, the current construction activities, aimed at rejuvenating the parkway, have raised safety concerns, leading to the event’s postponement, according to the news release of the National Park Service.
The Colonial Parkway Rehabilitation project, generously funded by the Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund, is a testament to the park’s commitment to preservation. With an allocation of $122.8 million, the project’s objective is to rehabilitate approximately 10.3 miles of the Colonial Parkway.
This includes crucial repairs to the road surface, bridges, the iconic Williamsburg Tunnel, and other significant structures. The project’s culmination is anticipated by 2026, aligning with the nation’s grand 250th independence anniversary celebration.
For RVers and campers, the postponement and ongoing construction might mean rethinking their plans. The “Park Rec Weekend” event, typically scheduled in June, offers a unique recreational experience.
With a seven-mile section of the parkway closed to vehicles, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. However, with sections of the parkway, especially from the Williamsburg Tunnel southward to the Route 199 interchange, being closed, access to certain areas might be restricted.
The park’s management has been proactive in addressing potential concerns. Facilities such as parking, restrooms, and water are being made available at the Jamestown Visitors Center, ensuring that visitors’ needs are catered to.
Moreover, the park requires an entrance fee for all adults aged 16 and older, a detail visitors should be aware of when planning their trip.