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

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Inauguration Will Overwhelm DC Transport — 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)

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.

(More President Obama stories.)

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