Washington D.C. just had several road closures as incoming congress people were sworn in. Now, as we approach the presidential inauguration for President Elect Donald Trump, as well as the funeral procession for former President Jimmy Carter, more roads are expected to close, and security is set to increase throughout the city.
The first heavy hitter day comes with the certification of the 2024 election, which is set for January 6th.
Many expect a big turn out and prepare for things to possibly get chaotic as January 6th famously included riots in 2021, when the certification of the 2020 election took place. Following this is President Jimmy Carter’s funeral, which is set for January 9th. The funeral will celebrate the work he did in his years as president, as well as afterwards. Lastly, comes the Presidential Inauguration, which is scheduled for January 20th. As all of these events go on, roads will be closed intermittently, starting this evening.
The following roads are expected to be affected by closures at some point throughout this month:
- First Street between Constitution Avenue, NW, and Independence Avenue, SW
- Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd Street, NW, and First Street, NW
- Maryland Avenue between 3rd Street, SW, and First Street, SW
- First Street between Constitution Avenue, NE, and Independence Avenue, SE
- East Capitol Street between First Street and 2nd Street
- Constitution Avenue between Louisiana Avenue, NW, and 2nd Street, NE
- Independence Avenue between Washington Avenue, SW, and 2nd Street, SE
- D Street between First Street, NE, and 2nd Street, NE
- Maryland Avenue between First Street, NE, and Constitution Avenue, NE
- First Street between Louisiana Avenue, NW, and Constitution Avenue, NW
Furthermore, increased security is expected to be seen throughout the city.
The Washington D.C. Chief of Police, Pamela A. Smith, recently met with local and federal officials to discuss the increased security measures, in order to ensure the safety of D.C. residents and the safety of those traveling from outside of the nation’s capital to be present for the various events. Smith held a press conference in which plans were briefly discussed. She stated that the United States Secret Service is working closely with the local police department, as is other federal groups in order to guarantee a smooth transition of power period. Furthermore, she stated that they are aware of concerns regarding possible riots and are planning accordingly. However, as it is a core of our nation’s politics, she included that they are committed to “upholding the right to peacefully assemble and protest.” She simply tacked on to this that if any showing of protest turns violent, it will no longer be tolerated.
