2024 Year in Review and 2025 Outlook

Category: Latest Updates

2024 Year in Review and 2025 Outlook

Posted on by Board of Trade

 

A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION

In 2024, the Greater Washington Board of Trade solidified its role as a catalyst for innovation, economic vitality, and regional collaboration. Through more than 120 engagements—including policy initiatives, leadership discussions, and events—we drove meaningful progress on critical issues shaping our region’s future.

From advocating for unified transit and resilient infrastructure to driving downtown revitalization and amplifying the business voice, we delivered measurable impact. However, transformative change takes time, and our work continues.

This success is made possible by you! To our officers, executive committee, board of directors, committee chairs, initiative partners—and all of our members—thank you. Your contributions are the foundation of our success and help shape not only this organization but the future of Greater Washington.

As 2025 nears, the Board of Trade remains committed to uniting leaders around a shared vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous region.

LEADING REGIONAL PROGRESS

Greater Washington is a vibrant and dynamic place, and its success depends on anticipating trends, addressing challenges, and seizing opportunities to create lasting prosperity. In a time of change and uncertainty, strategic leadership and collaboration are essential. The Board of Trade works to turn these forces into progress, ensuring our region remains a secure, resilient, and thriving place to live, work, and grow. The details on the following pages reflect this commitment to leadership, vision, and action.

Programs & Policy

Through a wide range of activities—including high-impact events, strategic communication campaigns, closed-door meetings with elected officials, support letters, testimony, committee engagements, and more— Board of Trade members spent 2024 working to:

 

Impact Through Engagement

At the heart of our success lies the power of connection and collaboration. We convene the people and organizations that drive innovation, growth, and resilience across Greater Washington. In 2024, our unmatched signature networking opportunities, strategic initiatives, and trusted networks created space for leaders to share ideas, combine resources, and achieve results that benefit the entire region.

 

  • This year, we welcomed 30 new members and maintained an exceptional retention rate of 92%, exceeding industry standards.
  • Our signature events—including the Mid-Winter Dinner, Fall Business Classic, and the Annual Meeting—saw unprecedented participation, with 70% of member organizations represented. At the 7th annual Capital Region Transportation Forum we saw 30% increase in member participation. This level of engagement underscores the strength of our network and the enduring value we create together.
  • We tailored sponsorship opportunities to align deeply with member interests and strategic goals. This includes the revitalized TD Bank Morning Star Series—a 17-year partnership—focused this year on navigating a multi-generational workforce. The series featured three sessions that engaged attendees with discussions, workshops, and actionable strategies, illustrating our commitment to meaningful engagement and value creation.
  • We revitalized our digital presence by launching a new website, enhancing accessibility and engagement for members and stakeholders. This initiative, combined with a 20% increase in social media engagement, reflects our ongoing efforts to connect and engage meaningfully with our community.
  • We amplified our voice as a leader in the region through strategic communication efforts—placing thought leadership pieces in prominent media outlets such as the Washington Business Journal and WTOP. From op-eds on regional economic challenges and public safety, to appearances on Fox5 and at key events like the Maryland Economic Development Association Winter Conference, we positioned the Board of Trade as the go-to resource for forward-thinking solutions that shape our collective future.

2024 New Members

2024 Sponsors

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025

As we build on the successes of 2024, the Board of Trade remains focused on advancing the priorities that matter most to Greater Washington. In the coming year, we will drive the DMV Moves initiative to secure long-term regional transit funding, maintain momentum on public safety to ensure safe neighborhoods and thriving business environments, and build on partnerships like the Potomac Conference to foster inclusive growth and innovation. Our continued efforts to close opportunity gaps will strengthen economic resilience and advance a more equitable and prosperous region.

The Board of Trade’s strength lies in the engagement and dedication of its members. Together, we have demonstrated what is possible when we align around a shared mission for this dynamic region.

As we look ahead to 2025, we know there will be challenges, but also countless opportunities. And as we have for 135 years, the Board of Trade stands ready.

WELCOME 2025 BOARD OFFICERS

Board members contribute to the Board of Trade’s success in several ways: they weigh in on strategic decisions; assist with the recruitment, retention, and on-boarding process of members; lend resources and make connections to bring projects closer to their goals; attend and support board meetings and other Board of Trade events throughout the year.

JOIN US!

To get involved, connect with our team to explore ways to engage your entire organization. Follow our work—subscribe to our newsletters, connect on X, LinkedIn & YouTube, and visit our newly revitalized website for insights, initiatives, and member highlights. Our events have seen unprecedented demand this year—selling out time and time again—so be sure to secure your spot early and be part of these powerful conversations and engagements.

Not yet a member? Please consider joining us –as a members, as partners for change, or both – the Board of Trade is open for business and eager to team with any organization committed to our common goal of a Greater Washington region.

Driving Regional Progress Together: 2024 Programs & Advocacy Priorities

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The Greater Washington Board of Trade has long been a powerful voice in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, championing policies that foster economic growth, enhance urban living, and ensure equitable development. Our extensive portfolio of work is demonstrated through a wide range of activities, including high-impact events, strategic communication campaigns, private consultations with key stakeholders, active committee engagements, and advocacy efforts that drive regional progress.

Driving Regional Progress Together

In 2024, we focused on key areas critical to the future of our region: strengthening the business climate, advancing transportation systems, cultivating innovation, and preparing our workforce for tomorrow’s challenges. Each initiative reflects our commitment to fostering collaboration, advocating for policy change, and delivering measurable results.

Improving the Overall Business Climate

A thriving business environment begins with a foundation of safety, infrastructure, and smart policy.

  • Public Safety: We actively supported the Secure DC Crime Bill, collaborating with local governments to enact policies that enhance community safety and create a stable environment where businesses can grow and residents can thrive.
  • Water Infrastructure: Partnering with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) and other regional authorities, we prioritized sustainable water solutions, securing commitments for long-term supply and climate resilience.
  • Downtown Redevelopment: Advocating for urban renewal, we supported D.C.’s Comeback Plan and testified in favor of the BEST Act, and Downtown Arena Revitalization Act which boosts economic activity, revitalizes commercial districts, and supports job creation.
  • Regulatory Environment: We successfully advocated for streamlined processes, including securing authority to extend 5G small cell deployment in D.C., reducing barriers for businesses and driving competitiveness.

Improving Regional Transit and Transportation Systems

A connected region is a competitive region. In 2024, we championed policies that modernize transportation infrastructure and improve mobility across jurisdictions:

  • DMV Moves: As leaders of the Community Partners Advisory Group, we played a key role in advocating for dedicated regional transit funding and integrated transportation systems to reduce congestion and improve reliability for businesses and commuters.
  • I-495 and I-270 Managed Lanes Project: We supported the advancement of Maryland’s managed lanes initiative, promoting solutions that reduce congestion, improve cross-jurisdictional connectivity, and strengthen economic ties across the region.
  • Union Station Modernization: Contributing to plans for one of the region’s most important transit hubs, we supported efforts to transform Union Station into a modern, multi-modal hub that better serves the workforce and businesses.

Positioning Greater Washington as a Leading Innovation Hub

To ensure our region remains a leader in innovation, we advanced policies that accelerate technological adoption and foster collaboration:

  • Disruptive Tech and AI: Promoting innovation, we connected policymakers with industry leaders to advance the adoption of AI and other disruptive technologies, advocating for policies that unlock new opportunities for growth and efficiency.
  • Innovation Ecosystem Mapping: Launched an initiative to map the region’s innovation ecosystem, identifying key players and resources to strengthen collaboration between startups, research institutions, and businesses.

Enhancing Workforce Readiness

Preparing a skilled and adaptable workforce is essential to our region’s economic future.

  • Virginia Workforce Transition: Serving on the Virginia Workforce Transition Stakeholder Advisory Group, we supported the creation of a consolidated statewide workforce system, improving apprenticeship programs and strengthening data-sharing protections to better align skills with employer needs.
  • Pathways to Prosperity: To advance inclusive growth, we convened business leaders, government officials, and nonprofits to strengthen support for minority-owned businesses. By aligning resources across economic development, capital providers, and workforce programs, we are closing opportunity gaps and fostering entrepreneurial success.
  • 5 Generations in the Workforce: We shared best practices to help businesses address the challenges of managing five generations in the workforce, fostering collaboration and inclusivity across age groups.

Building Momentum for 2025

The policy wins and progress achieved in 2024 have created a foundation for even greater success in 2025. In the year ahead, we will continue advocating for regional solutions that strengthen our economy, modernize infrastructure, and build a thriving innovation ecosystem. By addressing emerging challenges and seizing new opportunities, we will ensure Greater Washington remains a resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking region.

Together, we are shaping a future where businesses prosper, communities thrive, and our region leads the way in innovation and growth.

Waterway Economics: Funding increases for region’s Port of Baltimore and Port of Virginia

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Our Greater Washington region must continue to invest in all types of transportation and supply-chain infrastructure to ensure our communities and businesses can thrive and adapt in the coming years.

With that, promising news has been announced concerning the two biggest ports that serve our region. Funding for the Port of Baltimore and Port of Virginia will increase after announcements from the federal and state level of U.S. government were made in recent weeks.

President Joe Biden recently announced at the Port of Baltimore that $147 million in awards for the Maryland Port Administration will support jobs by enabling the purchase and installation of zero-emission port equipment, charging infrastructure, and power improvements. It is part of $3 billion in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act that will go towards ports across the country. This is even furthered by the $580 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund 31 port improvement projects in 15 states and one U.S. territory.

As for the Port of Virginia, money from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the amount of $2.4 million for the cities of Norfolk, Newport News, and Portsmouth, all of which are vital communities that support the Port of Virginia and its efforts to serve the region’s commerce and supplies needs. The federal government has also invested $380 million in funding to bolster sustainability efforts that hope to make the port more energy efficient, and this stems from the same money being given to the Port of Baltimore through the Inflation Reduction Act. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. consists of over 360 commercial ports that account for over 95% of cargo containers that come into the country. Additionally, a study from the American Association of Port Authorities, shares that $2.9 trillion in GDP and 21.8 million American jobs stem from our country’s vital port system.

The U.S. economy depends heavily on America’s ports to connect our communities to international trade, facilitating the movement of goods between the country and the global market and generating substantial employment opportunities for workers. This dynamic of impactfulness on the U.S. economy was recently highlighted by the Port of Baltimore worker’s strike that created inflation fears for the region. 

Newly elected officials across the Greater Washington region

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The Board of Trade’s policy team has tracked high-profile elections across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that help our members and greater business community understand what changes may be coming as policy takes center-stage to start 2025 as chambers open session.

We congratulate the newly elected members of Congress, State Assemblies, and local offices and applaud their commitment to public service and the trust their constituents have placed in them. As the region’s leading non-partisan business organization since 1889, the Board of Trade is dedicated to fostering collaboration on key priorities like transportation, technology, workforce development, and economic sustainability. We look forward to working together to advance initiatives strengthening the Greater Washington region and its business community.

Angela Alsobrooks (D)

U.S. Senator for the State of Maryland

Formerly the County Executive of Prince George’s County.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

April McClain Delaney (D)

Maryland – 6th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Garrett, Allegany, Frederick, and Washington counties. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Sarah Elfreth (D)

Maryland – 3rd District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Anne Arundel and Carroll counties.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Wendell Felder (D)

D.C. Council  – Ward 7

Represents parts of the Anacostia, Hill East, Stadium Armory, and Deanwood neighborhoods of Washington D.C.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Alyia Gaskins (D)

Mayor – City of Alexandria

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Suhas Subramanyam (D)

Virginia – 10th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Rappahannock, Fauquier, and Loudoun counties. Also represents parts of Fairfax County and Prince William County. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Eugene Vindman (D)

Virignia – 7th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Orange, Culpepper, Spotsylvania, Green, Madison, Fredericksburg, Caroline, King George, and Stafford counties. Also represents parts of Prince William and Albemarle counties. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Board of Trade hosts 135th Annual Meeting, highlighting successes and future goals

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The Greater Washington Board of Trade celebrated its 135th Annual Meeting, presented by Kaiser Permanente, on November 22, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C. This signature event has been a cornerstone of the organization’s efforts since 1889, bringing together members and partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and strategize for the future.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore kicked off Annual Meeting by delivering an inspiring keynote address that focused on collaboration and partnerships with the business community that resonated deeply with our commitment to advancing the Greater Washington region. With many of our members operating across this vibrant and ever-evolving area, engaging with state leaders like Governor Moore helps us stay connected and aligned with regional progress.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from key leaders driving the organization’s mission forward. Outgoing 2024 Chair Steve Proctor of G.S. Proctor & Associates reflected on the year’s accomplishments, highlighting milestones in transportation, public safety, and inclusive economic growth. Jeremy Blank of Deloitte, the incoming 2025 Chair, shared his vision for the year ahead, emphasizing continued collaboration and innovation. President & CEO Jack McDougle underscored the importance of member engagement and outlined strategic priorities to ensure the Greater Washington region’s long-term prosperity.

VIDEO: Jack McDougle addresses Board of Trade membership, Greater Washington business community

View More Pictures from Annual Meeting on Flickr

Key Highlights of the Event:

  • A Year of Progress and Collaboration: The meeting spotlighted achievements in regional transportation through the DMVMoves initiative, collaborative public safety advancements like the Secure DC Act, and inclusive economic growth efforts, such as Pathways to Prosperity.

VIDEO: Outgoing 2024 Chair Steve Proctor addresses GWBOT membership

  • Looking Ahead to 2025: Attendees discussed the strategic vision for next year, including plans to advance economic revitalization and secure key designations to support regional innovation and growth.

VIDEO: Incoming 2025 Chair Jeremy Blank addresses GWBOT membership

  • Networking and Recognition: With robust attendance from industry leaders and member organizations, the event served as a premier networking opportunity and a celebration of collective milestones.

VIDEO: Kaiser Permanente’s Israel Rocha addresses Greater Washington business community

The Board’s leadership emphasized the importance of continuing to foster partnerships and maintaining engagement from members to drive initiatives forward. Members were encouraged to stay involved by attending events, engaging with staff, and leveraging opportunities to contribute to the organization’s mission.

Thank you to all our members for contributing to the work of the Board of Trade that helps our region and business community to stay competitive, engaged, productive, and inclusive to all who live and visit!

The Annual Meeting underscored the Board of Trade’s role as a powerful convener and advocate for the Greater Washington region.

In 2025, we anticipate fresh challenges coupled with abundant prospects. Drawing from our enduring legacy in this region, the Board of Trade is unwavering in its dedication to amplifying your achievements and bolstering our region’s competitiveness. We’ll advance this by nurturing stronger connections, advocating more powerfully across federal, state, and local arenas, conducting in-depth analyses, and rolling out specific programs and initiatives.

Stay up to date on Board of Trade events here: https://www.bot.org/events

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting our 2024 Annual Meeting and continuing your support for the Board of Trade and our vital work in the region:

Exploring 2024 Election business implications for the Greater Washington region

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The Greater Washington Board of Trade and K&L Gates recently hosted the third installment of its 2024 Election Watch series, bringing together regional business leaders, policymakers, and experts to analyze the evolving political landscape and its potential impact on the business community.

This session panel discussion led by Darrell Conner and Karishma Page of K&L Gates, and our President & CEO, Jack McDougle, provided valuable insights into the priorities, challenges, and opportunities presented by a potential second Trump administration, highlighting key issues such as tariffs, federal workforce dynamics, and education policy.

Shifts in Support and Economic Concerns

The discussion opened with a look at demographic support for candidates, noting a trend where higher-income groups leaned toward Vice President Kamala Harris, while other income brackets showed gains for President-elect Trump. The economy remains a pivotal concern for voters and businesses alike, particularly with budget and funding challenges taking center stage.

Audience members shared perspectives on the inflationary impacts of tariffs, a hallmark of Trump’s first term. The panel highlighted the ongoing debate among economists about the long-term effects of these policies, underscoring the complexity of the issue.

Governance and Policy Execution

One of the standout themes was the potential for a shift in governance dynamics. During Trump’s first term, there was frequent uncertainty over whether policy decisions were driven by the White House or federal agencies. The panel suggested we can expect policy to be tightly controlled by the White House, as evidenced by high-profile appointments like Tom Homan as the incoming administration’s border czar.

The panel also explored the vetting and appointment process for cabinet officials, contrasting the more ad hoc approach of 2016 with a potentially more structured strategy for Trump’s second term.

VIEW MORE PHOTOS FROM THIS SERIES

Key Policy Questions

Attendees raised several pressing policy questions for the panel:

  • Federal-State Relations: Emphasizing the growing importance of state-level engagement, particularly on issues like K-12 education. Noting some skepticism within Republican communities surrounding federal involvement in education.
  • Earmarks: Observing that while earmarks represent a small portion of overall spending, there has been little recent discussion about their future.
  • Executive Orders and Regulation: A second Trump administration could likely issue a wave of executive orders on day one, potentially rolling back pending regulations and leveraging the Congressional Review Act to overturn existing policies.

Business Impacts and Workforce Dynamics

The panel spoke about the broader challenges facing businesses, from geopolitical risks and technological advancements to national security concerns. These factors are placing stress on business operations, with potential implications for federal workforce dynamics.

The panel pointed to the recent history of relocating federal agencies, noting that workforce relocation could remain a contentious issue, swinging with changes in administration.

Higher Education, Immigration, and Geopolitics

Panelists expressed uncertainty about future investments in higher education under a new administration. Immigration policy also remains unclear, though Trump’s “America-first” approach suggests a continued focus on legal immigration reform.

Geopolitical risks were another focal point. The panel discussed how these external factors could influence domestic policies, including presidential immunity and governance. Notably, Trump’s circle of allies has expanded since 2016, suggesting a more organized approach to administration planning.

Closing Thoughts

The session concluded with reflections on the long-term trajectory of U.S. governance and its impact on the business community. Panelists emphasized the need for businesses to stay agile and engaged as geopolitical, technological, and policy dynamics continue to evolve.

Thank you to K&L Gates for sponsoring this three part series that engaged our members and business community across the Greater Washington region. 

2024 Capital Region Transportation Forum engages DMV community, government stakeholders

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Regional transportation leaders and agency executives from across Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia convened at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library on November 13 for the seventh annual Capital Region Transportation Forum. Co-hosted by the Greater Washington Partnership (the Partnership) and Greater Washington Board of Trade (the Board of Trade). Discussions focused on progress and challenges toward achieving sustainable funding for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and transportation opportunities and challenges across the region. The Partnership and the Board of Trade are committed to advancing strategic transportation investments to keep our economy moving. An accessible, inclusive and efficient transportation system is essential to the prosperity of businesses and residents alike.

Partnership CEO Kathy Hollinger opened the forum by outlining priorities from the recently released Blueprint for Regional Mobility 5-Year Refresh. Informed by over 100 stakeholders, this roadmap emphasizes securing sustainable Metro funding, restoring DC as a world-class rail hub and embracing transit-oriented development (TOD).

Randy Clarke, WMATA’s General Manager and CEO, spotlighted Metro’s vital role in the region’s economy, contributing $9.4 billion in economic activity and achieving 43 consecutive months of ridership growth as of October 2024. Clarke emphasized, “Where Metro goes, the region grows,” underscoring the economic implications of a modernized and reliable Metro system. However, he warned that without long-term funding indexed to inflation and upgrades like an updated signaling system, Metro’s ability to continue to serve the region remains at risk.

VIDEO: WMATA General Manager Randy Clarke addresses transportation in Washington DC region

Charles Allen, COG Board Chair and District of Columbia Councilmember, and Paul Smedberg, WMATA Board Vice-Chair and Principal Director, kicked off the DMVMoves panel by sharing updates on the initiative’s progress. They highlighted key improvements in public safety and customer satisfaction, while emphasizing the imperative for sustainable funding for WMATA and urging business leaders to get involved. The subsequent panel, moderated by Nick Donohue, Principal at Capitol Transportation Consulting ,featured, Board of Trade President and CEO Jack McDougle, and Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill, two leaders on the DMVMoves initiative. Their discussion centered on the ongoing efforts to modernize the region’s transit system and the importance of collaborative action to address the region’s transportation challenges. Panelists stressed that these issues extend beyond Washington, DC, impacting the entire region and similar coalitions across the country. They called for business leaders to play a more active role in supporting a transit system that serves all residents and fosters long-term economic growth.

VIDEO: DMVMoves Taskforce addresses regional transportation issues at CRTF 2024

We were joined by United States Senator Mark Warner for a keynote presentation. Sen. Warner highlighted the regional benefits of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and highlighted three key priorities to ensure the vibrancy and vitality of our regional economy and future of transit: 1. Come together as a region to emphasize the expertise and efficiency benefits of concentrating federal workers in the region; 2. Accelerate return-to-office in both the public and private sectors; and 3. Continue to grow and expand regional cooperation initiatives.

VIDEO: Senator Mark Warner addresses transportation in Washington DC region

The final panel, moderated by NBC News Anchor Adam Tuss, gathered regional transportation agency executives to discuss recent progress and collaborations on regional transportation initiatives. The panelists, Virginia Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld and Director of the District Department of Transportation Sharon Kirshbaum, shared insights on their administrations’ respective visions and regional priorities. Major long-term transportation projects discussed included the Purple Line in Baltimore, the Expansion of Union Station in Washington DC and the construction of The American Legion Memorial, each of which will support the region’s transportation system.

VIDEO: Transportation secretaries discuss transit funding, traffic congestion in Greater Washington

The region’s future depends on bold decisions and sustained collaboration to address evolving challenges. By advancing modernized, innovative transportation solutions, we can ensure a thriving and connected economy for years to come.

Special thanks to our moderator, NBC News 4’s Adam Tuss, and our sponsors—Transurban, HNTB, EXP, Northeast Maglev and WSP—for making this important event possible.

Together, we can shape the future of transportation in our region.

Watch the full recording of the 2024 Capital Region Transportation Forum:

RPLS: Maryland officials engage region’s business community on public safety

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Recently, the Board of Trade hosted the Regional Policy Leadership Series with Maryland State Senator William C. Smith, Jr. (District 20, Montgomery County), Prince George County Council Chair Jolene Ivey, Prince George’s County Chief of Police Chief Malik Aziz, and moderator Melonie Johnson, President and COO of MGM National Harbor.

As influential leaders dedicated to public safety and its vital role in our region’s growth, the panel engaged in a thought-provoking webinar. Their work is crucial to our local business community, as they focused on key policies, priorities, and issues affecting us all.  Discussions addressed critical issues such as justice reform, workforce development, community collaboration, and initiatives to support small businesses through community policing and youth intervention programs. Together, they explored long-term sustainable solutions that can create a lasting impact on our communities.

A special thank you to Senator William C. Smith, Jr., Prince George County Council Chair Jolene Ivey, Prince George’s County Chief of Police Chief Malik Aziz, and moderator Melonie Johnson, President and COO, MGM National Harbor, for participating in this insightful and informative webinar! Watch the entire conversation in the YouTube video above.

2024 Election Resources for Greater Washington Community

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Tuesday is Election Day in the US! While the presidential election will be at the top of your mind, there are many essential ballot measures, such as state and district elections, where you can vote and make your voice heard. Learn more from the resources below.

Voter Registration 

  • CanIVote.org: Managed by the National Association of Secretaries of State, this resource allows voters to check their registration status, find out how to register, and understand the voting requirements in their state. It’s an invaluable tool for ensuring that voters are ready for election day. 

Candidate Information 

  • Vote Smart: This non-profit nonpartisan organization supplies information about elections, candidates, and voting records. By promoting informed voting, it empowers citizens to make educated choices at the polls. 

Voter Support 

  • U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC): The EAC provides resources about federal voting laws, guidelines for conducting elections, and assistance for voters. This site is essential for understanding the broader context of election processes and the support available to ensure fair voting.  

Transportation 

Board of Elections 

2024 Election Regional Safety & Travel

Posted on by Board of Trade

Stay Safe & Connected This Election Season

Local and federal agencies in D.C. are actively preparing for the 2024 Presidential Election season, anticipating any potential safety concerns the region could face. Below are updates from transportation, government, and business officials regarding the week of the Presidential Election—a crucial period for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington area. The Board of Trade is committed to keeping our business community informed and will continue providing timely updates through Inauguration Day.

Key Dates We Will Follow:

  • Nov. 4-10: Election Week
  • Jan. 6-10: Election Certification Week in Congress
  • Jan. 19-21: Inauguration Week

Safety Information

D.C. Government:

D.C. successfully requested that the upcoming election certification on Jan. 6 be considered a National Special Security Event, a classification similarly applied to Inauguration Day by the government.

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office hosted a media briefing on Oct. 22nd to discuss the city’s preparations for the Election Day security and the rest of the Election season, including the week of the election certification and inauguration at the beginning of next year.

Deputy Mayor Nina Albert also held a stakeholders briefing on Oct. 24th that addressed further ways the city is addressing safety concerns, including sharing that people to sign up for alerts at alertdc.gov to stay up to date with important safety and travel updates regarding election season.

The mayor’s office expressed:

  • The need for patience as it could take weeks or days for a winner to be declared in the 2024 Presidential Election
  • Please be careful about misinformation or false information about election security and activities in Downtown D.C., specifically about what is being said on social media.
  • Stay prepared for a fluid and unpredictable security environment with extremist groups and possible civil unrest.

Capital Police:

The National Park Service (NPS) has instituted a partial closure in Lafayette Park and along the White House sidewalks for public safety in support of preparation and activities associated with the presidential inauguration. Closures will remain in place through February 2025. The northern part of Lafayette Park remains open for visitors and First Amendment activities. This year, work began Oct. 1 to accommodate additional time needed for a safer and more secure environment for construction activities. The Washington Post has also confirmed that Capitol Police is working with the D.C. National Guard to coordinate response needs better ahead of key election and inauguration dates.

DC Board of Elections:

Monica Evans, the executive director of the D.C. Board of Elections, said in a recent Washington Post story thatn“The D.C. Board of Elections added armed security to its office headquarters and mail ballot processing center this year.” For more on the DC Board of Elections work during this election season check out their “checklist” for this November.

Department of Homeland Security:

The Department of Homeland Security has classified the upcoming electoral count, set for January 6, 2025, as a National Special Security Event. This designation grants the traditionally routine post-election event the same heightened security typically reserved for presidential inaugurations and political conventions. The Secret Service, which will oversee security for the count, has confirmed this arrangement.

Learn more about the election security measures being taken by DHS here.

Metropolitan Police Department:

While there has been no indication of any large-scale protests, events, demonstrations, or violent activities, MPD said in the statement to the Board of Trade that it encourages the public to remain vigilant. If you see something, say something. Please report threats and emergencies to 911. Keep your community safe by reporting suspicious activity by calling 202-727-9099, texting 50411, or visiting iwatchdc.org. Additionally, DC government will be in touch with business groups in the next week to schedule routine calls on security. Let me know if you need help being connected with the appropriate people scheduling those meetings.

MWCOG & Emergency Preparedness Council:

These two groups have been working hard to help share the importance of fighting mis-/dis-/mal-information surrounding the election and have been sharing information and strategies with government and business leaders on effective counterstrategiesin the context of the 2024 elections. In 2023, the MWCOG Board approved a resolution calling for continued regional participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), which provides local and state election officials with voter reports to prevent fraud and ensure accuracy. The board continues to encourage full participation by the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia in this resource. COG also convenes a regional Election Officials Technical Committee to coordinate and share information across jurisdictions.

Transportation Information

Election Night Traffic Updates

Vice President Kamala Harris will be having her Election Day headaquaters at Howard University, which has led to traffic reroutes in the area. Below is the map:

Inauguration Day Route Preparations in Downtwon D.C.

Right now, DDOT is planning to repave the Inauguration Day route and this could cause delays as this work continues through parts of Election Season. Below is a look at the Inauguration Day route (labled in red below) that extends from the White House to the U.S. Capitol Building. Pedestrian walking routes are also labled below in green and are vital to know if you will be in the area on Inauguration Day.

Inauguration Day Vehicle Access in Downtwon D.C.

Mayor Bowser met with D.C. Council recently to discuss safety preperation for Inauguration Day. In her presentation, her office included the vehcile access points for Inauguration Day from 2021, highlighting there will likely be a similar concept for Inauguration Day for this election cycle. Below is a look at the limited access drivers will see. The National Park Service has not released road closures yet, but you can check for more as they prepare for Inauguration Day here.

Advice For Downtown Businesses

Sign up to receive real-time alerts from the District on public safety, traffic impacts, and more on election and inauguration updates by visiting alertdc.dc.gov.

ReadyDC has resources to help businesses create emergency plans, protect critical information, and improve your workforce’s personal preparedness efforts. Learn more by visiting ready.dc.gov/business.

Report suspicious activity. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it at iwatchdc.org inform a police officer or call 911 if there is an emergency or you are in immediate danger. Also, keep up-to-date on the latest on Inuauguration Day from D.C. Government here.

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