Congressional Cemetery’s Master Plan: Our Roadmap of the Future

Today, we are proud to share the completion of our new Master Plan, a comprehensive roadmap that will guide the cemetery’s preservation, growth, and public engagement for the next decade and beyond.

This Master Plan represents the culmination of extensive research, professional planning, and, most importantly, meaningful community engagement. Over the course of the planning process, we invited neighbors, visitors, volunteers, families, and stakeholders to share their perspectives through surveys, public meetings, and ongoing conversations. The feedback we received was thoughtful, passionate, and deeply rooted in care for this historic landscape. We are grateful to everyone who participated. Their insights helped ensure that the plan reflects not only professional best practices, but also the lived experience of those who know and love Congressional Cemetery.

 (photo credit, Architect of the Capitol)

Developed in partnership with Rhodeside & Harwell and a multidisciplinary team of experts, the Master Plan builds upon our Strategic Plan, completed in 2024, and reflects a shared vision: to steward this National Historic Landmark responsibly while ensuring it remains an active, welcoming, and sustainable place for future generations.

At its core, the Master Plan is guided by several key priorities. First is the enhancement of the visitor experience. Improvements to paths, lighting, signage, and accessibility will help visitors engage more fully and safely with the site. Continued conservation of monuments and burial features remains central to this effort, reinforcing our commitment to preservation and interpretation.

Visitor experience improvements include road and path repairs and improvements, as outlined in this screenshot from the Master Plan.

Another major focus is ensuring long-term burial availability. Through a comprehensive audit of existing plots and the introduction of new cremation and scattering options, the plan outlines a thoughtful strategy for maintaining Congressional Cemetery as an active burial ground. This work supports both our mission and the financial sustainability necessary for ongoing preservation.

Concept drawing of a niche wall along Ingle Street.

The Master Plan also advances our commitment to environmental stewardship and green infrastructure. Strategies for improved stormwater management, expanded tree canopy, and pollinator-friendly planting will strengthen the cemetery’s role as an urban ecological resource while preserving its historic character.

The Master Plan calls for a slate of drainage and green infrastructure improvements.

Finally, the plan envisions investments in facilities and operational capacity, including enhancements to the Gatehouse and the development of a visitor kiosk. These improvements will support our expanding programming and educational initiatives, ensuring that the cemetery continues to serve as a dynamic cultural and community space.

 Concept drawing showing the expanded Gatehouse and Visitor Kiosk

This document is not an endpoint, but a beginning. It provides a framework for prioritizing projects, guiding fundraising, and shaping partnerships in the years ahead. Most importantly, it reflects the collective vision of a community that cares deeply about the future of Historic Congressional Cemetery.

We invite you to explore the full Master Plan and learn more about the vision for this extraordinary landscape. Together, we will continue to preserve, protect, and celebrate this national treasure.

The Master Plan includes 16 projects located throughout the cemetery.