Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 10, 2024 11:57 pm GMT
CLEVELAND — This weekend, downtown Cleveland will be alive with the sounds of music and the hustle and bustle of fans as iconic artists Billy Joel and Rod Stewart take the stage at Huntington Bank Field for an unprecedented joint concert. This event is expected to draw a large crowd, prompting city officials to implement extensive parking restrictions and road closures to facilitate traffic management.
Major Events and Traffic Disruptions
On Friday, September 13, concertgoers will not only be flocking to see Joel and Stewart, but the Cleveland Guardians will also be hosting a game at Progressive Field while Nicki Minaj performs at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Therefore, those heading downtown should anticipate heavy traffic and allow ample time for travel.
Parking Restrictions
Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced in various locations from 6 a.m. on Friday until 1 a.m. on Saturday. Additional restrictions will be applied at different times throughout the day:
- From 3 p.m. on Friday to 1 a.m. on Saturday.
- From 4 p.m. on Friday to 1 a.m. on Saturday.
It is advisable for drivers to check nearby poles, posts, and meters for specific signage outlining the restrictions to avoid any unexpected fines.
Road Closures
In addition to parking restrictions, several road closures will take effect on Friday:
- From 6 a.m. on Friday to 1 a.m. on Saturday.
- From 5 p.m. on Friday to 1 a.m. on Saturday.
Access to Route 2 from West 3rd Street will remain open until 5 p.m. Similarly, eastbound access to Route 2 from East 9th Street will be available only from Lakeside Avenue during the events, with certain access points subject to change. This is particularly important for those planning transportation routes.
Access to Parking Facilities
For those attending the concert or other events, access to key parking facilities has been preserved:
- The Pit Lot and Huntington Park Garage on West 3rd Street will be accessible throughout the event.
- The Muni Lot will be open from Route 2 or South Marginal Road east of the lot.
Public Transportation Options
In anticipation of increased foot traffic, the Waterfront Line rail service will operate on September 13. The first train departs from Tower City Station at 4 p.m., with service continuing every 15 minutes until the last train leaves South Harbor Station at 11:57 p.m. This option could provide a convenient alternative for concertgoers looking to avoid the hassle of parking.
Event Significance and Highlights
This concert marks an exciting milestone for both Billy Joel and Rod Stewart, as it is the first time the legendary artists will share the stage. Fans can expect an evening of unforgettable performances, featuring their most beloved hits across their lengthy careers. Organizers are promoting the event as a spectacular showcase of music that is not to be missed.
Preparations for Attendees
Event organizers encourage attendees to arrive in downtown Cleveland early to navigate the anticipated crowd. Given the overlap with other significant events in the area, concertgoers should plan their transportation and parking needs ahead of time. With a wide array of dining and shopping options in the vicinity, early arrival could enhance the overall experience.
Conclusion
Cleveland is getting ready for an exciting weekend filled with lots of big events happening at the same time. The city has put in place plans to help manage traffic, making it easier for everyone to get around. If you’re going to a concert or a sports game, be sure to check for any updates on parking and road conditions as the events get closer.
