Part of George Washington Parkway shut down due to protest

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A heads up for drivers on George Washington Memorial Parkway. Northbound lanes were shut down around 9 a.m. Wednesday morning because of demonstrators in the roadway.

Northbound lanes are closed between Sprout Run Parkway and Chain Bridge in the area of the overlooks, according to U.S. Park Police. Drivers in the area are asked to seek alternative routes.

USPP officers are on the scene providing traffic control. Drivers should expect delays in the area while the demonstration activity is going on.

The climate action group Declare Emergency posted photos and videos claiming they are the group blocking traffic.

"Declare Emergency supporters block traffic because this is an emergency, we all need to act like it," the group said in a tweet.

One of the protesters was seen holding a sign that said "No Willow Project."

The recent approval of ConocoPhillips' big Willow drilling project by the Bureau of Land Management will allow three drill sites including up to 199 total wells.

There is no word yet  when the lanes will be back open.

This is a developing story. We are working to gather additional details. Stay with WUSA9 for the latest updates as they come in to our newsroom.