13-05-2025
What will happen to businesses within the security zone during NATO Assembly?
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — International delegates will start arriving in downtown next week for the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Spring Session.
In the week leading up to the session, there's some uncertainty for business owners operating inside the security zone.
NATO is coming to Dayton, here's what to know
Many owners say they are excited to welcome guests, but there's still a lot of unknowns. So many unknowns that one of Dayton's classic pizza joints is closing its doors for the duration of NATO.
'There'll be a hassle and the inconvenience of customers coming in and out. That's the main thing,' said Tony Gracie, co-owner of The Flying Pizza.
Gracie says the business decided it just wasn't worth it.
'I think the biggest thing was the actual security, not only the security, but the convenience for customers to come in and out,' said Gracie.
Other owners told 2 NEWS they'll stay open but still have questions about procedure.
'We have clients scheduled, so they don't know exactly how they're going to be able to get here, where they're going to park, if there's going to be some sort of shuttles,' said Tshana Davis, owner of Studio 816. 'So that's my biggest concern about just how we will be able to maneuver throughout the event.'
Davis has owned Studio 816 for nine years. With such an unprecedented event happening next week, she plans to wait for proper guidance from officials.
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Other businesses are in a position where they won't be hurting for money — they just have to pivot a little.
'There's still some unknowns. No doubt about that. At the same time, you know, we're really excited because we get to be part of something history,' said Tim Roesch, Parking Management Company.
PMC operates valet for downtown area hotels. Roesch says they will do the best they can to navigate the changes.
'Where we're parking, the routes that we're taking, which roads we can travel and which we can't,' said Roesch.
LIST: What is closing in Dayton during the NATO Assembly?
The Flying Pizza initially planned on welcoming international visitors, but ultimately decided to just close their doors.
'Step aside for the week, and then we'll be back the following week,' said Grace. 'So from that Tuesday to the following Tuesday, we'll be shut down and then we'll be reopening that following Wednesday.'
Overall, most business owners are welcoming the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
'I don't really have a problem with it at all,' said Davis. 'I'm actually excited to see it come.'
'My whole team is really excited about it,' said Roesch.
Around 300 parliamentarians from 32 NATO countries will arrive in downtown next week. Click here to learn more.
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