The Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Virginia recently began making improvements to its visitor services following the completion of an environmental assessment by the National Park Service (NPS).
The assessment evaluated the environmental impact of planned amenities and parking expansions designed to keep the park operating under current industry standards, leading to a Finding of No Significant Impact on Jan. 4, a Jan.10 NPS press release said.
“Since 1971, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts has provided opportunities to experience live performances, learn about music and theater and explore nature,” the release said. “The updates in the plan will improve the visitor experience while continuing to preserve the history, landscape and resources of the only national park established as a performing arts venue.”
The planned improvements, expected to begin rolling out this summer, include improved traffic flow, parking, security, disability access and pedestrian routes, the release said. The project will also improve or replace restrooms, “add directional and wayfinding signs” and make significant updates to the Filene Center, a theater named after the parents of Catherine Filene Shouse, the primary contributor to the park’s creation.
Shouse, an art and nature lover involved in several local music programs, donated nearly 100 acres of her farmland to the United States in 1966 as well as the funds to build the large outdoor amphitheater, a biography on NPS’ website said.
“Mrs. Shouse’s goal was to protect the land from encroaching roads and suburbs, as well as create a natural backdrop where the arts could be enjoyed in harmony with nature,” the biography said. “Congress accepted Mrs. Shouse’s gift and the ground-breaking ceremony took place in 1968.”
Wolf Trap National Park, located near Vienna, Virginia, is now home to several working theaters in addition to the 10-story Filene Center, NPS’ website said.
