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| | | Running into roadblocks | | October 29, 2009 | | | | The Marine Corps Marathon, which took place last weekend, is one of the myriad races and bicycle rides the District hosts each year. Such events, which often raise money for worthy causes, can also help boost the city's economy. Many race participants stay in local hotels and eat at local restaurants.
Unfortunately, the races can also create major inconveniences for the people who live and pay taxes here. Most events require street closures that may prevent local residents from driving to and from their homes. The closures, which often take place on Sundays, can also interfere with local church services.
Race organizers typically assure advisory neighborhood commissions that police can allow drivers to cross a closed street at times when runners or cyclists will not be affected. But too often, officers assigned to the scene don't seem to have gotten that message.
Several Palisades residents told The Current that they were unable to leave their driveways Sunday during the Marine Corps Marathon -- even when no runners were nearby.
The District should continue to do everything it can to host such events, but residents need better protections. At the very least, police offers should be properly instructed to allow drivers to cross at appropriate times. A more effective solution might be to require a race's sponsoring organization — rather than the police department — to staff cross streets. | | | | | Log in to comment on this article |
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