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Four Mile Run Kayak Launch opening delayed to mid-September

The Four Mile Run Kayak Launch is scheduled for completion in July 2025 (staff photo by James Cullum)

The opening date of the Four Mile Run Kayak Launch has been pushed back two months, according to the city.

Alexandria listed July 19 (Saturday) as the completion date, although weather conditions over the summer and “recurring tidal inundations” have pushed that date to mid-September, according to the city.

“Due to weather conditions this summer and recurring tidal inundations, the timeline for completing the Kayak Launch at Four Mile Run has been impacted,” the city told ALXnow. “Project completion is now projected for mid-September.”

Construction started in March for the project, which includes a raised boardwalk at the trail that leads to a gangway and floating dock. The city states that the launch is the first publicly accessible ADA-compliant Potomac River paddling access point.

“We sincerely appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as the project team continues working to deliver a safe, accessible, and high-quality amenity that everyone can enjoy this fall,” the city said.

The launch is located along Four Mile Run near Alexandria Toyota (3750 Richmond Highway), and is being constructed in partnership between the city and Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation.

The design for the launch was completed in 2021, and the Foundation took three years to obtain the necessary environmental regulatory approvals and permits from the state, according to the city.

The Four Mile Run Kayak Launch is scheduled for completion in July 2025 (staff photo by James Cullum)

About the Author

  • Reporter James Cullum has spent nearly 20 years covering Northern Virginia. He began working with ALXnow in 2020, and has covered every story under the sun for the publication, from investigative stories to features and photo galleries. His work includes coverage of national and international situations, as well as from the White House, Capitol, Pentagon, Supreme Court and State Department. He's covered protests and riots throughout the U.S. (including the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol), in addition to earthquake-ridden Haiti, Western Sahara in North Africa and war-torn South Sudan. He has photographed presidents and other world leaders, celebrities and famous musicians, and excels under pressure.