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Inauguration Will Overwhelm DC Transport
Even if only 1M show, expect 'a lot of walking, a lot of waiting'
By Matt Cantor
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Posted Dec 15, 08 9:04 AM CST
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(Newser)
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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.