Business owners say they are taking precautions after damage from riots this summer. News4’s Adam Tuss reports.
D.C. streets surrounding the White House for blocks will be closed to parking on Election Day and the following day as police expect demonstrations.
The Metropolitan Police Department announced parking restrictions for all of Tuesday, Nov. 3 and Wednesday, Nov. 4. Intermittent street closures are possible.
“We do not advise parking or driving downtown,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said at a news conference.
City officials are “preparing to ensure the city’s safety” but know “some people would like to cause mayhem,” the mayor said.
Here’s a look at the area that will be closed to parking.
"While the Metropolitan Police Department does not anticipate street closures, there is the potential for intermittent closures in the downtown area of the District of Columbia. Any decision to close a street will be based upon public safety," police said.
Some downtown D.C. businesses had boarded up their windows by Wednesday.
Robert Laurence Jewelers on G Street NW was severely damaged by rioting this summer. This week, a crew put up wood over the shop’s windows and sign.
“They basically broke every piece of glass I had in there. They busted my gate, stole merchandise. Really it was pretty devastating,” manager Steve Wiczek said.
Stay with NBC Washington for more details on this developing story.
