Obama inauguration 2013: Tight security planned for inauguration

Associated Press

WASHINGTON -- Spectators at inauguration events should prepare for tight security, long lines and downtown road closures.

Inauguration-goers will be screened at security checkpoints Monday, but officials hope that additional metal detectors and staff will help ease the congestion. There are flight restrictions in the skies over Washington and extra security on the waterways. There's also a long list of prohibited items, including glass containers, large signs and bicycles.

Security appeared generally light over the weekend around the National Mall, where thousands of people milled about and attended events like a wreath-laying ceremony at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

Protesters are expected at various spots along the Pennsylvania Avenue parade route. A small group of anti-abortion demonstrators picketed near the White House on Sunday.