DC: Metro Trolley Trestles in Montgomery County Found to be Compromised

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority structural engineers, in conjunction with the National Park Service, have inspected two former trolley trestle bridges in Montgomery County that were once part of a trolley line linking Georgetown to Glen Echo Park, and determined the trestles are structurally compromised.

In the interest of public safety, the National Park Service has immediately closed the trail beneath the trolley trestle at Walhonding Road, known as the Sycamore Store Trail, until further notice. The closure of the trail will block access to the pedestrian overpass leading to the C&O Canal Towpath from MacArthur Boulevard.

Temporary fencing is being installed and signage posted to notify the public. As an alternative, pedestrians and cyclists may access the C & O Canal Towpath from several other locations, including the trail next to the Union Arch Bridge on MacArthur Boulevard and via Clara Barton Parkway at Locks 7, 8 and 9.

The second trestle, located at Wilson Lane, is not accessible from a public path.

Both trestles, which are more than 120 years old, are located on National Park Service land and were acquired by Metro as the result of a settlement of a lawsuit in 1997.

Metro remains engaged with the National Park Service to determine the best solution for restoring visitor access.