Back when he was running for President, candidate Barack Obama said, "Everyone benefits if we can leave our cars, and walk, bicycle, and access other transportation alternatives..." While these words ring true any day of the year, January 20, 2009, is one day when going car-free is not just a choice, but a necessity for those of us in the Washington capital area.
And as the region gears up for Inauguration Day, walking is quickly rising to the top of the short list of preferred "transportation alternatives" for anyone who plans to witness history, whether on the National Mall or along the Inaugural parade route. In fact, Metro recommends walking for people within 2-3 miles of the Capitol because, as we've all heard by now, trains are expected to fill up long before they reach stops within a 2-3 mile radius of the Mall.
Even though the choice may be clear for those of us coming from Arlington and DC, there are still many restrictions and caveats to consider. And things are changing by the day. That's why WALKArlington has been busy trying to keep track of all the Inaugural developments that affect pedestrians.
Baby Steps
With today's release of the Secret Service Security Plan for the Inauguration, we now have a handy Inauguration Transportation Map, which details pedestrian access points along with other much-anticipated logistical information.
Metro has also put together a Walking Map/Commemorative Inauguration Guide (click on pdf in lower right-hand corner of page) to help walkers make their way from select Metro stops.
Other resources to help pedestrians figure out their options for walking to the Inauguration from Arlington and DC:
- Washington, D.C. 2009 Presidential Inauguration Website (scroll down to Walkable Routes)
Breaking News
Keep in mind that plans for the Inauguration are fluid and may change at any time. As the date approaches, keep checking the following official Inauguration websites for updates:
There are still plenty of unresolved questions, from whether pedestrians will be allowed on 14th Street and Roosevelt Bridge sidepaths to whether strollers will be allowed in the perimeter. Rest assured, WALKArlington will continue to monitor updates that affect pedestrians and share what we learn, so if you're planning on walking to the Inauguration, stay tuned for more!
Lauren Hassel is Coordinator of Outreach and Promotions for WALKArlington, part of Arlington County Commuter Services in the Department of Environmental Services.
The Ft. Myer website indicates that Ft. Myer is will be on "limited access" status on Jan. 20. Only residents and essential personnel allowed on post.
Posted by: Jack | January 19, 2009 at 08:05 PM
Great!!!
It is Very informative blog.
Posted by: containers sales | January 15, 2009 at 12:49 AM
We'll check with Fort Myer Public Affairs on Monday to find out whether walkers will be allowed access on Inauguration Day. GoogleMaps is sending folks through the Fort to Memorial Bridge but that doesn't mean Fort Myer is permitting walkers. Stay tuned for an update on this and confirmation on sidepath access for walkers on the 14th Street and Roosevelt Bridges.
Posted by: Lauren Hassel | January 10, 2009 at 09:43 PM
Correction: I just learned that all the bridges will be open to bikes and pedestrians: the sidepaths on Key, TR and 14th; the whole road on Memorial.
Posted by: Steve | January 09, 2009 at 05:16 PM
I think it is absurd that they are closing the 14th St. and Roosevelt bridges to pedestrians. What is the point of that? I would love for the Secret Service to answer the question "Why?" for virtually everything it does. "Why?"
The valet bike parking is at the Jefferson Memorial, which is right off the 14th St. bridge access point--the perfect spot if the bridge were available. But no--you have to fight through whatever crowds are around the Lincoln and then wend your way around the tidal basin to get to the valet parking.
At the very least they should open the bridge to outbound bike traffic after the ceremony.
Posted by: Steve | January 09, 2009 at 05:02 PM
Do you know whether pedestrians and/or bicyclists will be allowed to go through Ft. Myer? For many of us, that's the shortest route to Memorial Bridge.
Posted by: ftsmall | January 09, 2009 at 11:17 AM