Rallies could draw 2,000 to Capitol Feb. 20

February 17, 2012

Capitol Campus Update

As many as 2,000 people or more could come to the Capitol Campus on Feb. 20 to participate in protests, rallies, marches and other activities.

The large crowds are expected to affect parking and traffic around the campus.

The Department of Enterprise Services has issued permits for eight events on Feb. 20, with nearly all of them taking place on the west campus near the Capitol Building.

The scheduled events include:

  • Service Employees International Union Local 925 Lobby Day – This event includes a 1 p.m. rally near Tivoli Fountain and is expected to draw up to 1,000 attendees.
  • Coalition for a Fair Budget – This event includes an 11:30 a.m. march along Capitol Way from Sylvester Park, in downtown Olympia, to the campus. Participants are expected to join the 1 p.m. Service Employees International Union rally, and then move to the Temple of Justice steps.
  • Washington State PTA Focus Day – An event organized by the Washington State PTA. It has an estimated attendance of 600 to 700 attendees who will also march from Sylvester Park to the campus and then rally at the north steps of the Capitol Building.

Although some of the events are scheduled for the entire day, most of the activity near the Capitol will take place between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Other visitors to campus are advised to use alternate parking and transportation options, such Intercity Transit’s Dash shuttle.

Enterprise Services manages public events and activities on the campus.