Icelanders can expect hours of traffic delays in Reykjavík today, on the occasion of today’s visit from US Vice President Mike Pence, RÚV reports.
In a statement to the press from the Reykjavík Area Police, they detail that Katrínartún, between Borgartún and Sæbraut, will be closed from 9:00 this morning, and that Borgartún between Þórrunartún to Nóatún, will be closed from 11:00. Sæbraut will then be closed at noon, but all of these streets will be open again at 17:00.
In addition, a wide expanse around the famed Höfði house (shown above) will be fenced off, restricting even pedestrians from entering the area. For ease of use, the police have issued this handy map.
Police say that traffic delays can be expected around the city, especially in the afternoon, and are asking the general public to show patience and understanding. As Pence will only be in the country for seven hours, and is expected to meet with Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir, this delay will be mercifully temporary.
Pence’s visit has already raised concerns amongst Icelanders. His arrival has been preceded by numerous US military aircraft touching down at Keflavík International Airport, and Pence’s political positions are also cause for protest in the eyes of many Icelanders, in particular where women and queer people are concerned
As such, a “Party Against Pence” protest will feature representation from the Campaign Against Militarism, the National Queer Organisation, Trans Iceland, the Feminist Society of the University of Iceland, and others. The event begins at 17:30 at Austurvöllur, the square in front of Parliament. Music and speeches will continue into the evening.
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