15th Street closed from 4:30 - 6:00 for National Tree Lighting

We have learned that 15th Street will be closed to all vehicles from 4:30 pm tomorrow (Thurs. 12/3) through at least 5:45 pm.

We are working with DOC security to establish an alternate plan for parking during pick-up, using the apron parking spots on 14th St. and entrance through the door next to the Center's library, as has been done in the past, but plans are not yet confirmed.

AN email will be circulated as soon as pick-up plans are set with security. Call Assistant Director Chantell Washington-Jones at 202-482-1587 for an update if you don't receive further information.

Here is the email from the Department of Commerce regarding street closures tomorrow:

The lighting of the National Christmas Tree will take place on Thursday, December 3, 2009 on the National Ellipse. Please be advised that the following streets will be closed to vehicles from approximately 4:30pm until the completion of the event on the National Ellipse:

15th Street from Constitution Avenue to Pennsylvania Avenue NW 17th Street from Constitution Avenue to New York Avenue NW

As in the past, it is anticipated that parking will not be permitted on 15th Street, NW (Constitution Ave. – Pennsylvania Ave.) from 6:00 am – 7:00 pm.

Motorists in the area should expect to encounter heavy pedestrian traffic in the area before the event, and especially after the event as guests make their way toward Metro Stations and their parked cars. Please use extreme caution while driving in this area and plan alternate routes.

Please plan accordingly.

Questions may be addressed to the Emergency Operations Center at eoc@doc.gov<mailto:eoc%40doc.gov><mailto:eoc@doc.gov<mailto:eoc%40doc.gov>>.