Traffic on the inner loop of the Capital Beltway may be even more of mess Friday due to a group's plan to intentionally clog the interstate with their tractor-trailers.
During the three-day ride, organizers of the "Truckers Ride for the Constitution" rally say tractor-trailer drivers will circle the beltway "three lanes deep" to express their frustration with the nation's political leaders, as well as policies regulating the trucking industry.
"We are here, to breathe life back into our Constitution. We are here, to declare our independence...," a press release on the organization's website reads.
A Facebook page for the rally has more than 59,000 likes, with about 3,000 RSVPs.
While truck driver Earl Conlon told the Washington Post that the plan is a hoax, the group said on its official website that Conlon is not authorized to speak on their behalf.
Those participating in the ride plan to leave a Doswell, Va., truck stop at 7 a.m. Friday. Organizers say the rally was scheduled for a holiday weekend to reduce harm and to allow others to participate in their cause.
A Virginia State Police spokesperson says additional troopers will work through the weekend to respond to any incidents that may arise. A statement from the department reads, in part:
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"Virginia State Police is aware of the proposed convoy of commercial vehicles and is preparing accordingly with the region’s law enforcement agencies and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), just as we have done in the past for similar demonstrations held within the National Capital Region. As long as the vehicles comply with Virginia law, then the Virginia State Police will not interfere with their activities."
In 2007, a similar rally was held to protest illegal immigration and competition from Mexican truckers, U.S. News & World Report said. But it did not heavily affect commuters.
