Georgetown University's longstanding dream to expand public waterfront access along the Potomac River is set to become a reality, thanks to a joint agreement with the District of Columbia and the National Park Service. The partnership aims to amplify non-motorized boating activities and establish a new boathouse for the university. As per the agreement outlined by the DC government, Georgetown will gift land along the river to the National Park Service, a move designed to seamlessly integrate the space into the existing boundaries of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park.
Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed her pride in leading a city that works closely with local entities to bring such projects to fruition. "This collaborative effort between the District, Georgetown University, and the National Park Service transforms underutilized space along our treasured Potomac River into a beautiful, new boathouse that Georgetown University and the community will enjoy," she told the DC government. The District will quickly begin planning a public site to the east of the Key Bridge, aiming to enhance the waterfront experience and connect to existing trails and parks.
Under the detailed arrangement, the National Park Service will hand over jurisdiction of two parcels by the Key Bridge to the District for the construction of these boathouses. In return, Georgetown University will construct its boathouse on the site to the west of the bridge. The exchange not only promises expanded aquatic recreation but also kindles a beacon for environmental education and physical well-being.
According to Georgetown University Interim President Robert Groves, the project marks an era of enhanced public access to the Georgetown waterfront. "This collaborative effort, which has been underway for decades, will create a special space for the Georgetown rowing community, and will usher in a new era for public access to the Georgetown waterfront," he said, per the DC government. The new boathouse will not only support Georgetown's rowing teams but also provide the community with year-round access to the water for a variety of activities.
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