Thursday, January 14, 2010

Virginia Inaugural information for Saturday, Jan. 16

The swearing-in ceremony of Robert F. McDonnell as the 71st Governor of Virginia will take place on Saturday, January 16, 2010, at 12 noon at the State Capitol in Richmond.

The ceremony will be open to the public. Gates will open at 9:30 a.m. at the 9th Street entrance to Capitol Square as well as just north of 13th Street and Bank Street on Governor Street between the Oliver Hill Building and the Jefferson Building.

Please arrive early to allow enough time to pass through security and get in place before the ceremony begins. All attendees will be required to pass through a security screening. Prohibited items include: oversized bags, large purses, briefcases, book bags, and suitcases.

Please anticipate cold temperatures and be prepared for inclement weather on the day of the ceremony. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as there is very limited seating and most attendees will need to stand.

The McDonnell Inaugural Committee would like to extend to the public an opportunity to participate in two official Inaugural events.

Reserved Seats at the Swearing-In & Parade
Due to cramped conditions on Capitol Hill, viewing of swearing-in ceremonies are somewhat restricted. However, the McDonnell Inaugural Committee would like to offer a limited number of reserved seats for the official ceremony beginning at 10:30 am on January 16th.

Invitation to attend the Reception on Sunday January 17th at the Executive Mansion
Traditionally, the day after the Inauguration a public reception is held on the first day of a Governor’s administration to have the people of Virginia meet him and wish him well.

If you are interested in participating in these exciting events, please feel free to fill out the information by checking McDonnell Inaugural. Your name will be chosen randomly and you will be notified no later than January 14th that you have a reserved seat at the swearing-in or a reception invitation.

Inaugural Parade
There will be a parade at 1:15 p.m. immediately following the Inaugural Ceremony. The parade route will head east on Grace Street between 5th and 9th Streets and enter Capitol Square at 9th and Grace Streets.

Those interested in watching the parade from our family-friendly locations are encouraged to line Grace Street between 9th Street and 5th Street.

Street Closures*
Friday, January 15, 2:00 p.m. – Saturday, January 16, 6:00 p.m.

10th Street between Main and Bank Streets
Friday, January 15, 7:00 p.m. – Saturday, January 16, 6:00 p.m.

Bank/Franklin Street between 9th and 14th Streets
9th Street between Main and Broad Streets
Franklin Street between 8th and 9th Streets
12th Street between Main and Bank Streets
13th/Governor Street between Main and Bank Streets
Grace Street between 9th and 8th Streets
Saturday, January 16, 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Grace Street between 8th and 6th Streets

*Details are subject to change. Please check back often to get the most updated information.

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