People from across the D.C. area were heartbroken when the National Park Service said 140 cherry trees would be removed between the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial for a $113 million rehabilitation of the seawalls around the Tidal Basin and along the Potomac River through West Potomac Park.
Stumpy, the famous distressed cherry tree on the Tidal Basin, will be among the ones to go.
More Cherry Blossom Festival News
- FAQ: What you need to know about the National Cherry Blossom Festival 2024
- Identifying D.C. cherry blossoms: Do you know your Yoshino from your Kwanzan?
- Enjoy D.C. cherry blossoms from a private hot tub or tiki bar — on the Potomac
- Miles from the Tidal Basin, an alternative for cherry blossom lovers
The construction on the seawalls is aimed at addressing flooding issues which have overwatered some plants, harming the famed cherry trees, according to the park service. When the work is done, cherry trees will be planted to replace the ones that are cut down.
The National Park Service said the repairs are part of nearly $500 million in planned infrastructure improvements at the National Mall ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.
