Streets of Washington D.C. remained calm, quiet for Biden inauguration

WASHINGTON D.C. — The streets of Washington D.C. were calm and quiet for President Joe Biden’s inauguration Wednesday as ramped up security kept the usual large crowds away.

“I’m actually surprised at how few people came out today,” spectator Brian Florence said.

The spectators appeared to be far outnumbered by law enforcement.

READ: President Joe Biden to sign more than a dozen executive orders on first day in office: Here’s what they’ll do

A security fence with barbed wire stood between the public and thousands of armed National Guardsmen.

“Just going by the sheer force here, it’s probably the safest place in the world right now,” said spectator Kush Patel.

People tried their best to catch a peak but were kept farther back than usual because of the increased security that was put in place after the attack at the U.S. Capitol earlier this month.

READ: Inauguration Day 2021: Harris escorted by Capitol police Officer Eugene Goodman, who diverted rioters from Senate

Shamir Harris and Cara Delacruz traveled all the way from Texas after planning the trip months ago.

“We were expecting like a celebration,” Delacruz said. “A big huge crowd. You know, nothing like this at all.”

The empty streets were a far cry from the usual crowds of past inaugurations.

Photos: Scenes from Biden inauguration

This year the public wasn’t allowed along Pennsylvania Ave or anywhere near the monuments.

“I’m disappointed we can’t be down on the Mall to watch,” said Washington D.C. resident Grace Walter.

Keep in mind, this is what the Mayor of Washington D.C. had wanted.

She asked people to stay away and instead watch the inauguration virtually because of security concerns.

Cox Media Group