Among the built-up high rises and parking lots that dot GW’s Foggy Bottom campus, there are few green spaces left.

Anniversary Park, located on F Street, has wooden benches, green grass, and blooming flowerbeds. But what could be a great place to study, or to simply relax, has one problem: the gates are always locked.

The grassy area located next to the Foggy Bottom Grocery store, has been closed due to construction on the new residence hall at 2135 F Street, University spokeswoman Tracy Schario said. The construction, Schario said, could pose hazards to people using the park for recreation.

The University Police Department currently monitors and controls access to the park, said Jeff Dean, senior project manager for Facilities Management. Before it was closed to students for safety reasons, student organizations were able request to use the park for outdoor events. Many did so, including Greek-letter life organizations, which have routinely taken advantage of the space to host rush events.

The park, which was created to mark the University’s 175th anniversary, has catered to those beyond the GW community as well. It has played host to several events sponsored by the Foggy Bottom Association, including a recent book sale. A GW community relations organization hosted an annual barbecue there last week, as well.

Once the new construction on the 2135 F Street residence hall is complete, the park will be officially reopened to students, Schario said.