The Secret Service has notified residents and workers in Washington, D.C., that several parts of the city will be restricted during the upcoming NATO summit.
This year’s NATO summit will occur from July 9-11 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. As a result, the Secret Service has warned that security measures for the event may impact travel routes within 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,” stated Special Agent Matt Stoller. “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 added that exact street closure details will be released once the security measures for the NATO summit are finalized.
Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith indicated that businesses and residential areas within restricted zones will remain accessible. However, vehicles and individuals will be required to go through specific entry points and security screenings.
Smith also mentioned the possibility of an increase in “First Amendment demonstrations” during the NATO summit. This could refer to recent protests in support of Gaza following the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7. When asked about any expected demonstrations, Smith stated there are no anticipated events but acknowledged that unexpected demonstrations could still occur.
The chief addressed questions about the pro-Palestinian protest that happened over the weekend, during which Hamas supporters vandalized statues in Lafayette Park. There were no reported arrests. She directed further inquiries to the U.S. Park Police, the lead law enforcement agency for that protest.
