Funding Proposed To Restore Damaged Areas Of Holmes Run Trail

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The portions of Holmes Run Trail damaged by the July 8, 2019 flooding event could be restored with proposed funding. City Manager Mark Jinks proposed $6 million in capital funds to fix the damaged portions and reopen them to the public.

The city manger's capital budget proposal funds design and engineering in fiscal year 2021 and construction to remediate the trail beginning in fiscal year 2021. The city's website says all closed portions won't reopen until 2023 at the earliest.

Officials estimate Alexandria received a month's worth of rain in about one hour when flash flooding damaged parts of the trail. The city says the damage left these parts of the trail unsafe for public access. Damage was reported in three sections of the trail, including two bridge structures.

Holmes Run is susceptible to flooding due to stormwater coming from various points and the Barcroft Dam. A portion of the trail connecting to North Morgan Street had also closed in 2018 due to flooding and erosion. Four sections of the trail are closed.

A press release from the City of Alexandria reads, "The City recognizes the impact these trail closures have on the many residents and visitors who use Holmes Run Trail and appreciates the community's patience as City staff works to fund, plan, design and construct the necessary improvements to make the trail fully functional once again."

The city has temporary signage and barriers installed at the trail closures. Permanent signage regarding the closures and detour signs are in progress.