Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Inauguration Will Overwhelm DC Transport

Even if only 1M show, expect 'a lot of walking, a lot of waiting'

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Dec 15, 2008 9:04 AM CST
Email

(Newser) – If you’re one of the 2 million to 4 million expected to converge on Washington for Barack Obama’s inauguration, be warned: Neither public transportation nor local roads will be able to handle the influx, the Washington Post reports. With road restrictions and packed subways, “it’s going to be a lot of walking, a lot of waiting,” said one administrator.

“If millions of people are coming to the National Mall, Metro can’t handle everyone. It’s impossible,” said one official. As for driving, “you’d be nuts to try,” added another. Amtrak and airlines will be adding trips. And getting out of the city will mean another rush: If a million people hit the subway simultaneously, rides could take 8 hours.


Workers construct the inaugural platform at the west front of the Capitol in Washington, Dec. 4, 2008, in preparation for Barack Obama's inauguration Jan. 20, 2009.
Workers construct the inaugural platform at the west front of the Capitol in Washington, Dec. 4, 2008, in preparation for Barack Obama's inauguration Jan. 20, 2009.   (AP Photo)
Workers construct the inaugural platform at the west front of the Capitol in Washington in preparation for Barack Obama's inauguration on Jan. 20, 2009.
Workers construct the inaugural platform at the west front of the Capitol in Washington in preparation for Barack Obama's inauguration on Jan. 20, 2009.   (AP Photo)
A worker paints the center stand of the inaugural platform, at the west front of the Capitol in Washington, on Dec. 4, 2008, as preparation continues for Barack Obama's inauguration.
A worker paints the center stand of the inaugural platform, at the west front of the Capitol in Washington, on Dec. 4, 2008, as preparation continues for Barack Obama's inauguration.   (AP Photo)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 5 comments
Shannonals
Dec 19, 2008 12:55 AM CST
Your very sad attempts at parody and sarcasmm protray you as a racist.
John
Dec 15, 2008 1:22 AM CST
Ya, too bad we can't look forward to 4 mores years just like the last 8.
Guest
Dec 14, 2008 9:54 PM CST
How is using someone's legal middle name racist? Obama's campaign song and presidential theme should have been/be "Can't Touch This." Can't be critical of the Messiah!

Tough economy, fancy event?
Chicago Tribune

Hollywood helps fund inauguration
The Hill

Travel tips
Washington Post

Politics • US

 
overcrowding • driving • public transportation • inauguration • President Obama • Inauguration Day

More Newser Stories

The Way You Commute Could Hurt Your Health

Smithsonian Snags Obama Inaugural Gown

Avoid Planes, Trains, Closed Spaces: Biden

'Inaugurabilia' Reaps $2M for Ceremonies

Drum Major Suspended for Nodding at Obama
NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne