Washington, D.C. 20530

August 29, 2003

MEMORANDUM FOR BUREAU HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICERS

This provides the attached memorandum from the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) concerning an event sponsored by the NFL to celebrate the opening of the 2003 football season and salute America’s military members.

The event will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2003, with an opening-day concert on the Mall scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. Officials anticipate more than 100,000 participants to attend. With such a large crowd of attendees expected for this event, major traffic congestion in the downtown Washington, DC area is anticipated.

OPM is urging employees to use public transportation and allow extra time for travel on Thursday, September 4, 2003. Employees who wish to stay home should request leave by following normal procedures. Supervisors are encouraged to approve requests for leave for this day. Employees on alternative work schedules (AWS) may wish to schedule their AWS day off on September 4. With supervisory approval under a written or oral telework agreement, employees may work at home or at a telework center.

Employees should anticipate large crowds on Metro as people arrive for the concert while others are leaving work. Fourth Street will be closed where it crosses the Mall. There is a possibility that 7^th Street also will be closed. Please encourage your employees to monitor local news media for announcements on traffic conditions or additional street closures.

Questions concerning leave and absence in connection with this matter should be directed to Margaret Foskey, of the Personnel Staff's Workforce Effectiveness Group. Ms. Foskey may be reached on (202) 514-6778.

Attachment

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