DC neighbors brace for road closures, heightened security around NATO summit

4 months ago 8

The 75th annual NATO summit runs Tuesday through Thursday, impacting drivers, bus users, metro riders and pedestrians.

WASHINGTON — DC neighbors are bracing for impact as the 75th annual NATO Summit kicks off Tuesday.

Roads will be closed and multiple public safety agencies will be increasing security around the DC Convention Center, Mellon Auditorium and White House as hundreds of dignitaries convene in the District. The summit is also expecting thousands more attendees.

For the first time in 25 years, NATO leaders are re-convening in Washington, D.C. -- the place where the original 12 Allies signed the North Atlantic Treaty 75 years ago.

Now, NATO is up to 32 member countries and has said the focus of this summit is on supporting Ukraine and the future of the partnership.

DC neighbors, however, are most concerned about accessing their offices and homes.

“Everywhere takes a lot longer to get through," said Rachel Zajz-Residen, who lives across from the Convention Center. 

NATODC: Residences and businesses near the Washington Convention Center are still publicly accessible, but vehicles and people may need to undergo security. Find access points at https://t.co/pumwIBadty.

— AlertDC (@AlertDC) July 8, 2024

You can find a full list of road closures here, mainly around the DC Convention Center, the Mellon Auditorium and the White House.

Parking will also be restricted in these areas, so pay attention to signage.

Some bus routes will be detoured, and two metro stops will also be closed, including Federal Triangle on Tuesday and Mt. Vernon Square through Friday morning.

“A lot of people have been told not to come into the office since they’ve been closing a lot of metro stations," Zajz-Residen said.

She and other neighbors who live near the Convention Center will also have to show IDs to drive into their apartment buildings.

“I heard Tuesday is going to be the busiest," neighbor Weston Coward said.

To receive updates from public safety agencies monitoring the summit, you can text NATODC to 888-777.

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