Inaugural Welcome Mat

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It’s show time. In January, Downtown DC will host an estimated 4 million people, who will descend on Washington to participate in Presidential Inauguration ceremonies for Barack Obama. This is the moment for Downtown businesses to show the nation, and the world, what we’re made of.

Preparations already are underway to welcome the masses with open arms and ensure that their experience in the heart of the Nation’s Capital is a pleasant and engaging one. Richard Bradley, the Downtown BID’s executive director, is urging all hospitality and food service businesses to remain open in order to accommodate the crowds that will move through the area en route to the festivities. Office building and property managers are also being asked to encourage their security and maintenance crews to be prepared to guide and assist the many visitors who will traverse the neighborhood throughout the Inaugural weekend.

The Downtown BID’s safety, hospitality and maintenance employees, known as SAMs, will be out in force, armed with information to help move the crowds along and find their destination. The SAMs, who number more than 100, provide a reassuring presence on Downtown streets seven days a week by offering directions; notifying police when trouble arises; escorting workers to their vehicles or public transportation after hours; and removing litter, trash and graffiti.

The Downtown BID also is contacting local businesses to gauge your operating hours during the Inaugural weekend and will issue “Inaugural Alerts” to keep businesses, workers and residents apprised of official Inaugural plans, access to Metro, street closings and security measures. Links to Inaugural information will be available at: www.downtowndc.org/inaugural

“Cooperation and patience are needed during this momentous occasion in the history of our nation and our city,” says Bradley.  “The Downtown BID is here to help with the best and latest information we have to keep local businesses informed. We encourage you to join us in this effort.”