The National Park Service (NPS) enforced its long-standing regulations prohibiting camping and using temporary structures for camping on federal parkland on Monday. The move stopped Occupy DC protesters from camping in McPherson Square and Freedom Plaza, although they can continue to stage 24/7 demonstration vigils and use symbolic temporary structures such as empty tents. But one side of all temporary structures must remain open at all times to ensure public health and safety and to allow NPS staff to monitor compliance with camping regulations. In addition, no bedding is allowed. Enforcement finally came nearly four months after people advocating for economic parity set up camp at Freedom Plaza (Pennsylvania Avenue between 13th and 14th Streets) and McPherson Square (K Street between 15th and 16th Streets). The DowntownDC BID’s Maintenance SAMs will continue to work with the Department of Public Works (DPW) and NPS to ensure cleanliness. In addition, Safety/Hospitality Team Members assigned to the locations will continue to help visitors find their way and notify police should trouble arise. Again, no immediate end to the sit-ins is in sight.
