National Park Service Seeks Feedback on Future of Civil War Defenses of Washington

News Release Date:
May 15, 2026

Contact: NCR Communications

The National Park Service invites you to comment on a proposed update to the management plan for the Civil War Defenses of Washington, the historic network of forts, batteries and parkland that protected the nation's capital during the Civil War.

Comment Period
May 15 through June 15, 2026

Public feedback will help shape how these historic sites are managed in the future.

How to Comment

Online (preferred)
ParkPlanning - CWDW Management Plan Update/Environmental Assessment

By mail
Superintendent
Attn: CWDW MGMT Plan Update
National Park Service
3545 Williamsburg Lane NW
Washington, DC 20008

Mailed comments must be postmarked by June 15, 2026.

The upcoming 30-day public comment period offers a final chance to provide input before NPS completes the required National Environmental Policy Act and National Historic Preservation Act review process.

What the Proposed Plan Would Do
The proposed Management Plan Amendment and Environmental Assessment would guide future management of approximately 1,315 acres across the Civil War Defenses of Washington, also known as the Fort Circle Parks.

The plan includes:
• 18 historic fort sites
• Shepherd Parkway
• The Fort Circle Drive corridor

The National Park Service's preferred alternative would:
• Update park management zones
• Strengthen protection of historic and natural resources
• Expand opportunities for recreation and visitor use

Any future projects or changes would still require additional planning, community input and historic preservation review.

About the Civil War Defenses of Washington
During the Civil War, 68 forts and 93 batteries armed with more than 800 cannons encircled Washington, D.C.

Today, the National Park Service manages 19 surviving sites, including:
• Fort Stevens
• Fort Bayard
• Fort Bunker Hill
• Battery Ricketts
• Fort Chaplin

Important Notice
Comments, including names and contact information, may become part of the public record. Requests to withhold personal information will be considered but cannot be guaranteed.

-NPS-

About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov .