D.C. Residents will get an exclusive preview of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the National Mall several days before the official dedication on Aug. 28.
Time and time again District residents have rolled out the red carpet and endured disruptions when the nation's capital plays host to visitors from around the world for special events, said Mayor Vincent Gray, speaking at a press conference outside the memorial on Wednesday.
So Gray says it is fitting that on Aug. 23, a day he has proclaimed "D.C. resident day," the favor has been returned and Washingtonians will get the opportunity to visit the brand new memorial.
“We are finalizing the details to have the passes available online and fittingly also at the Martin Luther King library at Ninths and G streets, NW," said Gray.
The memorial will be open to residents from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“Tours will be conducted for residents who have special passes on a first come first serve basis," said Gray. "The passes will be available to people after Aug. 18."
Other events are planned for the upcoming dedication, including a march for D.C. voting rights on Aug. 17 and on Aug. 25. Gray and other city officials will dedicate the roadway leading up to the memorial as Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
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