Thurs. April 8, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC – Nearly 50 heads of state will descend on the Downtown BID area April 12 to participate in a two-day Nuclear Security Summit. To ensure that Downtown businesses, workers, visitors and residents are aware of potential disruptions, and to minimize the impact, the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) is working with municipal and federal government agencies to disseminate critical information about road, transportation, parking and pedestrian restrictions.
“Without question, security will be tight and congestion overwhelming,” says Richard Bradley, executive director of the Downtown BID. “But we are prepared for special events of this nature. Property managers, private security contractors and businesses already have been alerted, and our Safety, Hospitality and Maintenance employees (SAMs) are prepared to guide people away from cordoned areas to assist them in traversing the area efficiently.”
Hospitality SAMs, who number 58, provide a reassuring presence on Downtown streets seven days a week by offering directions; notifying police when trouble arises; and escorting workers to their vehicles or public transportation after hours. During the Summit, they will be armed with information to help pedestrians and motorists find their destinations easily. Assistant Chief Diane Groomes of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has briefed the SAM team, which will receive updates during their daily roll call.
The Downtown BID also has notified private property and security managers and businesses of official Summit plans, so that they are aware of Metro access, street closings and other security measures.
In addition to sharing vital information, the Downtown BID is working with the Department of Public Works (DPW) to ensure a safe environment. Maintenance SAMs, who number 47, will assist with removing trashcan liners from nearly two-dozen bins around the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Maintenance SAMs remove litter, trash and graffiti from Downtown streets seven days a week.
The Downtown BID also is coordinating with city officials to ensure that construction related to the New York Avenue Sculpture Project, the first phase of which is scheduled to debut on Monday, will not be disrupted for a prolonged period leading up to the global Summit.
“Obviously, we urge all businesses and property managers to adhere to law enforcement and public safety agency guidelines,” says Bradley. “Cooperation and patience is always the best policy during such occasions. The Downtown BID is here to help with the best and latest information we have to keep local businesses and property managers informed.”
All questions about BID planning for the Summit should be directed to Hiram Brewton, the Downtown BID’s director of environmental services, who can be reached by e-mail at hiram@downtowndc.org, or by calling 202.661.7571.
For specific information on road closures, no parking areas and changes to public transportation routes and public works services, visit http://www.secretservice.gov/press_release.shtml. A map of the restricted area also is available at http://www.secretservice.gov/press/NSS_Map.pdf.