home > news > local

Bush Declares Emergency in DC for Inauguration

Declaration makes more money available for inauguration

Wednesday, Jan 14, 2009 | Updated 12:12 AM EDT

Bush Declares Emergency in DC for Inauguration

Getty Images

Washington - A sign outside the U.S. Capitol at dawn notes that the area is closed for construction of the 2009 presidential inauguration site.

Photos and Videos

Tips for Surviving Inauguration Day

What do you need to make sure you survive the elements on Inauguration Day?

WATCH

Tips for
Surviving Inauguration Day

Inauguration a Paradox of Sorts for Black Republicans

For most blacks, Barack Obama's presidency is a dream realized, but that's not quite the case for those 5 percent who voted Republican.

WATCH

Inauguration a
Paradox of Sorts for...

More Photos and Videos

WASHINGTON -- President George W. Bush on Tuesday declared an emergency in the District of Columbia that will let the nation's capital tap deeper into federal coffers for Barack Obama's inauguration.

An emergency exists, Bush said, and he ordered federal aid to supplement the $15 million in federal funds already appropriated for the event.

D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty requested the emergency declaration on Jan. 7 because he decided that the crowds expected for the nation's 56th presidential inauguration would exceed the city's ability to protect the public, White House spokesman Scott Stanzel said.

If the extra money is needed, it will come from the Federal Emergency and Management Agency budget, Stanzel said.

In a statement, the White House said the assistance is available to the District for emergency measures to protect public health and safety.

Fenty and others have said millions could descend on Washington for the inauguration.

More Inauguration Links for Locals:

Looking for parties to go to, click here.

Check out our Inauguration Guide, click here.

View DC Road Closure Map, click here.