Secret Service alerts on protests and road closures for NATO summit
The Secret Service has alerted residents and workers in Washington, D.C., that certain areas will be restricted during the upcoming NATO summit scheduled for July 9-11 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. They’ve advised that these security measures may impact travel routes around the city, although efforts are being made to minimize inconvenience. Given the upcoming NATO summit at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., from July 9-11, here are some tips for residents and workers in the area to navigate the expected disruptions:
1. **Plan Ahead**: Check the schedules and updates from traffic and public transportation authorities. It might be helpful to download transportation apps that provide real-time updates.
2. **Alternative Routes**: Identify possible alternative routes and modes of transport. Consider using metro services, buses, or even bikes if roads are heavily congested.
3. **Remote Work**: If possible, arrange with your employer to work from home during the summit days to avoid travel hassles.
4. **Stay Informed**: Keep up with local news for any last-minute changes in security measures and traffic updates. Signing up for local news alerts on your phone can also be helpful.
5. **Essentials**: If you must travel, ensure you carry essentials like water, snacks, and any medications in case of long delays.
6. **Security Checks**: Be prepared for increased security measures around the Convention Center area. Carry identification and cooperate with security personnel.
7. **Tourist Adjustments**: If you’re visiting Washington, D.C., plan tourist activities away from restricted areas, or consider rescheduling visits to major attractions until after the summit.
Adhering to these tips can help mitigate the inconveniences caused by the heightened security and travel restrictions during the NATO summit.
The Secret Service has informed residents and those who work in Washington, D.C., that certain areas of the city will be off-limits when the city hosts the NATO summit next month.
This year’s NATO summit will be held from July 9-11 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. As such, the Secret Service has cautioned residents ahead of time that security of the event could affect travel routes throughout the city.
“While we strive to minimize any inconvenience, people should expect to experience increased traffic on both roads and walkways due to street closures and other restrictions, particularly in areas where the event will occur,” Special Agent Matt Stoller said. “Vehicular public transportation and pedestrian impacts should be expected in the downtown area around the Washington Convention Center, the Carnegie Library, Mount Vernon Square, and the Mellon Auditorium.”
Stoller clarified that specific street closures will be shared once the security measures for the NATO summit are finalized.
Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith said businesses and residential areas within the areas closed off will be accessible. However, vehicles and people will have to enter specific areas and be subject to security screenings.
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Smith also forewarned that there could be an uptick in “First Amendment demonstrations” that take place during events like the NATO summit, possibly a reference to the various protests in support of Gaza that have taken place since the Hamas terrorist group attacked Israel on Oct. 7. When asked if MPD is expecting any specific demonstrations, Smith said there are not any anticipated events, though she noted that unexpected demonstrations could arise.
The chief was also asked about the pro-Palestinian protest that took place over the weekend, during which those supporting Hamas vandalized statues in Lafayette Park. No arrests were reported. She referred questions to the U.S. Park Police, which was the lead law enforcement agency at the protest.
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