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Lawlessness inside DC Union Station
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John Walker from Little Orleans on 4/26/2023 5:01:58 PM:
As previously posted, my Niece completed the towpath last Monday. While waiting to catch Amtrak's Capital Limited at Union Station, she had to fend off two separate attempts by vagrants to seal her bicycle. Again, no visible Amtrak/Metro DC Police presence. It was fortunate that she was able to fend off the attackers without the use of physical force. It used to be relatively safe to patronize Union Station in Washington DC but it appears that it too has degraded into utter lawlessness so cyclist beware. Travel in groups and don't leave anything unattended.
 
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 4/26/2023 7:00:24 PM:
Just what I needed to hear as I leave for DC via train in a few days. I've been contemplating getting some pepper spray for stray dogs during my later ride through rural countryside but I guess I could use it at the train station and other places as well, if necessary. Was the other incident at the MP0 marker behind Thompson's Boathouse?
 
John Walker from Little Orleans, MD on 4/26/2023 8:35:51 PM:
Yes, she was trying to get to Mike Marker Zero at the boat house landed when she was attacked. FYI, be very careful about defending yourself. The criminals are being set free while law abiding citizens are being prosecuted for the crime of self defense. Go figure.
 
Wayne L from Penetanguishene Canada on 5/14/2023 10:10:07 AM:
My wife and I are planning to ride from DC to Pittsburg in June. We are planning a day outing in Washington the day before we start. I wanted to start at Mile Marker 0 but after reading about the homeless problems and lawlessness in that area I am seriously considering not starting there. Maybe more police presence would solve this problem.
 
JM from OBX on 5/14/2023 9:56:44 PM:
I think you’ll be fine in that area. Yes, DC has crime issues just like any other large metropolitan area, but they tend to be random and not specific to Georgetown. Don’t let anecdotal stories interfere with your plans. Use good judgment and be aware of your surroundings, and enjoy your ride up to Pittsburgh.
 
John W. from Pittsburgh, PA on 5/15/2023 12:03:45 PM:
The most dangerous thing at Mile 0 is making sure to steer clear of the rowing crew members when they’re hauling their boats between the dock and the Thompson Boat House! I’ve never seen homeless there on my many GAP/C&O trips there. This is not to say that no homeless person has ever ventured down there but this is not a regular homeless location. As JM says, use the same judgement you would in any large city. Enjoy the pre ride around the city, it’s a great cycling city, and enjoy your GAP/C&O trip! John
 
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 5/17/2023 11:14:30 PM:
I travelled through DC’s Union Station a week ago and did not encounter or see any issues inside the station. However, I was more vigilant than in the past and carried some pepper spray for the first time based on the earlier post.
 
Wayne L from Penetanguishene Canada on 5/21/2023 9:52:35 AM:
Thanks for the info. I’ve never had a problem cycling in the US and I don’t expect that to change.
 
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