Getting closer...

Okay I know I said I wasn't going to make this an exclusively political blog, but living in this city, it is difficult not to talk about the upcoming inauguration of Barack Obama. However, because I am a Washignton resident, I'm just as interested in the logistical complications this city faces in the coming days as I am in the political gossip. Supposedly up to 4 million people are going to descend on DC within a week, and considering how small the city is, that would be quite a sight. A new friend of mine named Chris shared his view on the widespread, overhyped anticipation. He thinks expectations are getting unrealistic, and while it'll be a big deal, it isn't going to be as insane as everyone is predicting.

I have to admit, it is hard for me to imagine the entire Mall filled up with people, and all of downtown gettting shut down to any traffic. I also find it hard to believe that everyone is actually renting out their apartments for thousands of dollars. I only know a single person who is renting out her apartment, and while she's getting quite a good price, the deal isn't completed yet. I'll believe it when I see it.

But then again, Chris could be wrong. On Election Night, this city went berserk, and that was only with the residents of this DC alone. Also, people didn't know whether or not Obama was going to win, but when he did, impromptu parties popped up all over the city, including (probably the biggest one) in front of the White House. This time, Obama's place in history is a done deal, with enough time for millions to prepare a pillgrimage across the country or world. This really could be the craziest week in D.C. since maybe 9-11 or those sniper attacks.

As I was saying, the logistics of the whole affair will be interesting to watch unfold. If the last few days are any indication, the city could easily be gridlocked for days. Walking to work yesterday from my place in Adam's Morgan to K Street, I noticed that part of 16st was blocked off because of a busted water main (probably from the intense cold). Shutting down just a couple blocks caused quite a bit of havoc for everyone trying to get to work. Most of my office was nearly an hour late. As usual, I was happy I was walking. I'm also happy I don't have to work next Tuesday.