Final Preparations Underway For G-8 Summit

THURMONT, Md. (WJZ) -- Maryland is getting ready to host the G-8 Summit. Dozens of world leaders will come to Camp David to discuss the economic crisis in Europe and the war in Afghanistan, among other issues.

Mike Hellgren has a look at the final preparations.

Thousands of protesters will descend on Thurmont and security will be tight.

The massive G-8 Summit will bring crowds to Thurmont, near where eight of the world's most powerful leaders will meet in secret at Camp David for high-level discussions on everything from world hunger to events in the Middle East.

It's an event Frederick County's sheriff calls unprecedented.

"Camp David will be the safest place on the planet, I can assure you of that," said Sheriff Chuck Jenkins.

He had just eight short weeks to plan after President Barack Obama shifted the location from Chicago. The more remote Camp David will provide a shield from media and protesters, including Occupy Baltimore.

To get its message out, one anti-hunger group began painting messages on Route 77.

"These are people who are really important to see this message and to act," said Laurie Moskowitz. "What we want to say to them is make history. This is a chance to really go bold on this."

Summits of world leaders in urban areas have sparked violence in the past. The public won't be allowed near Camp David.

"When you meet in a place like Camp David that is secluded like this, you can keep it secret and you can keep it secure," said Bob Schieffer, CBS News.

The security is expected to cost millions of dollars. Local officials want the federal government to pay for it.

To learn more about preparations, click here or call 301-600-3000.

WJZ will have complete coverage as world leaders come to Maryland for the G-8 Summit. Mary Bubala will be live near Camp David and Vic Carter will report from the White House Thursday and Friday.