Construction on the Mall

It wasn't the prettiest run I've had through DC. On the National Mall between 7th and 12th Streets NW, the National Park Service is restoring the Mall's turf with durable grass varieties, placing granite edging, and installing sustainable systems to improve soil drainage and collect storm water. The expected completion date is January 2017. The Capitol dome is covered with scaffolding. Visitors still abounded around the Smithsonian museums, but you kind of feel bad for the tourists that it looks so ugly.

Theodore Roosevelt (Treasure) Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a tribute to Theodore Roosevelt, 26^th president, and his passion for nature and preservation. The Swamp Trail around the outside of the island is 1.3 miles—half boardwalk over the wetlands and half trail—with many smaller paths to explore. Next time, I’ll venture to the center and get a picture of Roosevelt’s statue and I’ll probably do at least two laps. It was a nice break from running on the sidewalk. There were other walkers, dogs, and some runners, but the majority of time I was running alone in this beautiful setting with the faint hum of the city in the background. I highly recommend this island; I think it tops even my favorite run around the mall.