NATO summit in DC brings fencing, increased police presence

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit is coming to D.C. on Tuesday and there’s much to brace for in terms of increased security.

The 75th anniversary of the NATO meeting primarily held at the Washington Convention Center and other locations including the White House, will bring significant traffic impacts including street and pedestrian closures.

That has some people who live and work around the convention center pondering how their lives and businesses will be affected as the summit will bring more of a police presence, endless fencing and barricades and a security perimeter that goes on for blocks.

“It’s a bloody nightmare, to be honest,” Debbie Goldman, who lives relatively close to the convention center, said. “It’s a nuisance. I’m not quite sure why they chose the convention center.”

Goldman said she cancelled her fitness class in a studio across from the convention center for Wednesday because of the summit.

“It’s kinda scary,” she added. “I can’t image how the businesses feel. It’s obviously a detriment to them.”

But Jonathan Bethony, who owns Seylou Bakery and Mill just a few blocks from the convention center, said he isn’t freaking out about the security shutdowns.

“I’m just patient,” he said. “We’re going to do our best to prepare and take care of our community and let all our staff know and stock up on supplies.”

Alexia Ramos, the owner of Ana’s Market, has a clear view of the security fences going up.

Ramos said she remembered the previous events at the convention center that caused disruptions but she’s optimistic that her juice and smoothie business may thrive this week.

“At the end of the day, though, the conference attendees – they have to eat,” she said.

She said other business are expecting to shut down this week but she is staying the course.

“We decided to keep it open,” Ramos said. “As long as people are able to walk on this block, we should be good to go.”

Some fencing was even placed in front of nearby homes.

“I’m able to get around very easily,” Paul Anderson, who lives in one of the neighborhoods near the convention center, said. “I’ve just noticed that it seems like more barriers than necessary but maybe not.”

But Lisa Gregory, who also lives in the area near the convention center, said that she’s happy D.C. is shining internationally this week with the NATO summit.

“It’s good for the city and it’s not too much of an inconvenience,” she said.

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