Dozens of world leaders will convene in Washington, D.C., this week for the NATO summit.
Support for Ukraine, Sweden’s induction into the alliance, and President Joe Biden’s leadership will likely be topics of discussion. However, something else has been occupying the minds of many D.C. residents ahead of this week’s event: traffic.
Detoured bus lines and temporarily closed sidewalks, roads, and metro stations are likely to impact Washingtonian’s commute.
Access to the areas surrounding the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Carnegie Library, Mellon Auditorium, Mount Vernon Square, and the White House will be impacted from Tuesday, July 9 to Thursday, July 11.
Businesses and homes inside restricted zones “will generally be accessible,” according to a joint press release from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and federal partners.
However, “vehicles and pedestrians may be required to undergo security screening prior to entering,” according to the statement.
That includes rideshare and delivery services.
“We have a lot of experience hosting large-scale events in D.C.,” said Bowser. “We’re encouraging residents and visitors to plan ahead, sign up for alerts, and leave extra time and have patience if you are moving to or through Downtown.”
Metro is rerouting more than 20 bus lines until 8 p.m. Thursday, July 11, including the 70, D4, Red Line shuttle, and more.
In addition, the Federal Triangle metro station will be closed on Tuesday, July 9 until 11 p.m.
Mount Vernon station will be closed all week from 11 a.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. Friday.
“We are leaning on Washingtonians to do what they have done time and time again: exercise patience and understand that these impacts are needed to keep both summit attendees, visitors, and all our DC residents safe,” said Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department Pamela A. Smith.
