DC to use convention center to house 500 coronavirus patients in 'worst case scenario'

Temporary hospital setup at DC Convention Center

The Walter E. Washington Convention Center will be used to house 500 coronavirus patients in a "worst case scenario," D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a press conference Friday. 

WASHINGTON (FOX 5 DC) - The Walter E. Washington Convention Center will be used to house 500 coronavirus patients in a "worst case scenario," D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a press conference Friday.

Preparations will begin Monday to set up the convention center for a hospital surge.

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Officials said it would be operational in May.

Mayor Bowser said 500 beds are already prepared for non-critical patients.

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"We will be prepared for worst case scenario," said Bowser. "Our goal is to never have to use the convention center."

There are now 2,476 confirmed cases in D.C. with 86 deaths reported.

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