The 60th presidential inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, scheduled for Monday, January 20, 2025, will be a historic event marked by tight security and extensive logistical measures. With hundreds of thousands expected to attend, Washington, D.C., will implement wide-ranging road closures, Metro adjustments, and high-security protocols to ensure a smooth and safe occasion.
Extensive Security Measures for a National Special Security Event
The inauguration has been designated a national special security event, highlighting its importance and the high level of security required. At a press conference, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized the collaborative efforts of local and federal agencies in planning over the past year.
“Our entire police department will be activated,” said D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith, noting an additional 4,000 officers and 7,800 National Guard members will support security efforts. High-visibility patrols, fencing, and barriers will be deployed, with road closures starting Sunday, January 19, and extending into Tuesday, January 21.
Detailed Road Closures and Restricted Zones
Full Road Closures
Key streets in Washington, D.C. will be closed to all traffic from Monday, January 20, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. to Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 6:00 a.m.:
- 23rd Street NW from Constitution Avenue NW to Ohio Drive SW
- Constitution Avenue from 18th Street NW to 2nd Street NE
- Pennsylvania Avenue from 18th Street NW to 3rd Street NW
- Independence Avenue from 23rd Street SW to 3rd Street SE
- 14th Street NW from K Street NW to D Street SW
Restricted Local Traffic Zones
Several streets will allow local traffic only during the inaugural period:
- 22nd Street NW from K Street NW to Virginia Avenue NW
- Virginia Avenue NW from 23rd Street NW to 18th Street NW
- L’Enfant Plaza SW from Independence Avenue SW to Hilton Washington Hotel entrance
Event-Specific Closures
Capital One Arena Rally
- Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 12:01 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.:
- 7th Street NW from H Street NW to E Street NW
- 5th Street NW from H Street NW to E Street NW
Convention Center Inaugural Ball
- Monday, January 20, 2025, from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.:
- M Street NW from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW
- L Street NW from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW
Highway Closures
Highway closures will impact key access points from Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 6:00 a.m. through Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 6:00 a.m.:
- I-395 Eastbound Exit 1 toward 14th Street/National Mall
- Northbound I-395 toward C Street SW/3rd Street Tunnel
- Westbound I-695 Exit toward I-395 North/3rd Street Tunnel
Metro Adjustments and Station Closures
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has made significant adjustments to accommodate the large crowds. Metro service will begin at 4 a.m. on January 20 and operate until midnight, with increased service on major lines.
However, six stations will be closed from Sunday, January 19, at 8:00 p.m. through Tuesday, January 21, at 5:00 a.m.:
- McPherson Square (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)
- Smithsonian (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)
- Archives-Navy Memorial (Green, Yellow lines)
Timeline of Inaugural Events
Saturday, January 18, 2025
- Fireworks Display and President’s Reception at Trump Sterling
Sunday, January 19, 2025
- Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery
- Make America Great Again Victory Rally
Monday, January 20, 2025
- Swearing-in Ceremony at the U.S. Capitol (noon)
- Presidential Parade along Pennsylvania Avenue
- Multiple inaugural balls, including the Liberty Inaugural Ball
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
- National Prayer Service at the National Cathedral
Security Measures in the Air and on the Ground
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued temporary flight restrictions, and drones will be employed to monitor potential threats. In addition, over 900 uniformed security personnel will monitor Metro stations and transit systems during the events.
Plan Ahead for Disruptions
With hundreds of thousands expected to attend, officials recommend advanced planning for travel and emphasize public transit usage. Up-to-date maps and alerts are available through WMATA and the D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT).
Got a reaction? Share your thoughts in the comments
Enjoyed this article? Subscribe to our free Newsletter for captivating articles, exclusive content, and the latest news.
