Security Exercise Could Cause Backups Near Walter Reed Bethesda

A security exercise at Bethesda’s will affect traffic around the military hospital Friday.

The exercise, known as Solid Curtain Citadel Shield, is taking place this week at Navy installations across the country. This Friday, March 23, heightened security measures at the gates to Walter Reed Bethesda could cause backups and significant delays on the roads surrounding the base during morning rush hour.

According to a press release, Walter Reed Bethesda is encouraging non-essential personnel to take leave, telework or shift their hours Friday, and patient services will be limited in an attempt to alleviate backups. Drivers, however, should still expect delays and allow extra travel time.

The hospital will remain open for emergency care, but those planning on accessing the base Friday should call ahead.

This week marks the first time a security exercise of this nature has taken place at Walter Reed Bethesda. It’s not clear how significantly traffic could be impacted.

For more information, call Walter Reed Bethesda’s public affairs office at 301-295-1803.