Mount Vernon Trail Has High-Tech Tracking System

New sensors are tracking the number of bicyclists and pedestrians who use the Mount Vernon Trail every day to help the National Park Service identify transportation needs, according to a Sept. 2 Washington Post article.

As part of a research project, the National Academy of Sciences planted the sensors along the 18.1-mile trail, collecting trail-usage data. 

Check out the Post story on the sensors along the Mount Vernon Trail—a great read for anyone who uses the trail regularly. 

Speaking of the Mount Vernon Trail, don't forget that there will be periodic closures this week.

NRG Energy is doing some work near mile marker 11 in North Old Town, so use the alternate trail in front of the power plant by Bashford Lane and E. Abingdon Drive. The alternate route will meet up with the Mount Vernon Trail on the north side of the plant. The work should be all finished by Sept. 6.

Work on new pedestrian bridges along the trail south of Old Town Alexandria will continue into the fall.

To allow this work, West Boulevard Drive through the Collingwood and Waynewood neighborhoods is currently being used as a detour for a segment of the trail.