By Associated Press - Wednesday, March 5, 2014

WASHINGTON (AP) - Mayor Vincent Gray is calling for changes to Secret Service protocols for visiting dignitaries to avoid downtown gridlock.

In a letter to the Secret Service on Tuesday, an “outraged” Gray writes prolonged closures near the White House and convention center are disrespectful to residents and visitors.

This week’s road closures and motorcades stemmed from the AIPAC conference, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke. Police say motorists were stuck in backups lasting up to two hours.

Blair House, which is reserved for the president’s guests, is being renovated, but Gray, who is running for re-election, questioned having dignitaries stay in a hotel that leads to paralyzing much of downtown.

The Secret Service notes it does not select dignitaries’ hotels, but says it will meet with District officials to discuss improvements.

Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.

Click to Read More and View Comments

Click to Hide