David Powell
Updated on: October 8, 2024 12:19 am GMT
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Friday, September 6, former President Donald Trump is poised to significantly impact traffic on Interstate 85 as he arrives in Charlotte for a private event hosted by the National Fraternal Order of Police. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has warned that traffic along I-85 will be disrupted between 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to ensure the safety of the motorcade transporting Trump to an event near West W. T. Harris Boulevard.
Traffic Impacts and Road Closures
In a statement, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police advised motorists to anticipate “impacts on travel” along I-85, which is expected to experience intermittent road closures during the high-traffic hours surrounding Trump’s visit. Although initial reports suggested complete closures, authorities later clarified that traffic would be redirected rather than fully halted.
The police department strongly urges drivers to plan their routes ahead of time or consider avoiding the area entirely. “If you do need to travel, please expect significant delays on alternative routes,” the department posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
Major traffic disruptions are anticipated in proximity to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is near the scheduled route for Trump’s motorcade. As delays build, alternative routes may also experience congestion, leading to further travel time increases.
Alternative Routes Available
- Interstate 485: The northern half of I-485 is highly recommended as a detour to avoid heavy traffic.
- U.S. Routes: U.S. 74 and U.S. 29 are also potential alternative roads that travelers could consider using.
The police department’s efforts aim to minimize disruptions while ensuring safety during the event, which marks Trump’s fourth visit to North Carolina in two months and his second in Charlotte during that time frame.
Political Context
Trump’s visit comes at a critical time as the political landscape in North Carolina tightens ahead of the upcoming presidential election. According to a recent poll conducted by East Carolina University, the race is highly competitive, with both major parties intensifying their campaigning efforts in the state.
His visit to Charlotte, coinciding with discussions among national police leaders, underscores the former president’s ongoing engagement with law enforcement entities as part of his platform. The Fraternal Order of Police, known for its strong support of police officers nationwide, provides a significant venue for Trump to reiterate his priorities regarding law enforcement and public safety.
In related news, Trump arrived in Charlotte shortly after a New York judge announced a delay in his sentencing for a hush money case, pushing the date to after the November election.
Public Reception and Protests
Previous visits by Trump to North Carolina have sparked varied reactions from the public, including both support and opposition. Local organizers and activist groups often plan demonstrations during his appearances, reflecting the polarizing nature of his political influence.
Attendees at the Fraternal Order of Police event can expect discussions centered around current policing issues and the significant role police play in community safety. The involvement of the former president ensures high visibility for the discussions, potentially drawing media attention and public scrutiny alike.
Stay Informed and Download App for Updates
Residents and travelers in the Charlotte area are encouraged to stay informed about traffic changes and updates related to Trump’s visit. For live updates, weather alerts, and the latest traffic information, the WCNC Charlotte mobile app offers a convenient way to receive notifications directly to your device.
There might be road closures and a lot of traffic in Charlotte on Friday afternoon. To have a smoother trip, it’s important to plan your travel ahead of time and consider taking different routes.
