NEW YORK – President Joe Biden’s visit to New York City on Wednesday caused major traffic disruptions during the evening commute. The White House stated that he would be attending three campaign receptions, leading to street closures and a few protests. This trip precedes a fundraiser planned on March 28 with former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.
Biden arrived in a helicopter at the Wall Street landing zone downtown and is expected to attend events on both the East and West sides of Manhattan. The preparation for his arrival by the NYPD included barricades and street closures, resulting in traffic standstills for hours. Commuters expressed frustration, with one driver mentioning an additional 40-minute delay and another pointing out the lack of guidance.
The president’s motorcade route was set from 60th to 80th streets along Fifth Avenue and Riverside Drive, with barricades and police in place. The MTA alerted riders about delays on specific bus routes due to the visit, prompting concerns from residents about the potential chaos in the city.
Protests also accompanied Biden’s visit, as hundreds of Palestinian supporters gathered around the Columbus Circle Globe, advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza. Demonstrators expressed their dissatisfaction with the president’s policies and communications, emphasizing the importance of their voices being heard.
Despite the protests, the demonstration remained peaceful with no reported arrests. As the evening progressed, a crowd gathered on the Upper East Side, leading to traffic blockages on Fifth Avenue in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The president was expected to leave town without any public appearances.
The visit brought not only political activity but also disruptions and demonstrations to New York City, reflecting the impact of national policies on local communities. As the day unfolds, CBS New York continues to cover the president’s trip, providing updates and insights for its audience.