Avon Lake, Ohio – In anticipation of the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8, Avon Lake is preparing for a dramatic increase in population. With its current population standing at 25,206 according to the 2020 U.S. Census, the city is expecting a massive influx of visitors during this celestial event. Avon Lake Parks and Recreation Director, Erin Fach, predicts that the number of people in the city could triple on eclipse day.
Not only will these additional visitors bring excitement and wonder, but they will also bring extra traffic. Avon Lake’s law enforcement is diligently working to minimize any traffic impacts. Police Chief Vincent Molnar revealed that the city has been preparing for this population explosion for the past 18 months. Their first priority was to inform the residents about the eclipse.
Molnar shared, “We needed to make the residents of our expected communities aware of the eclipse. I think we’ve passed the initial phase where people are upset about the interruption of their normal daily routine.” Now that the initial excitement has settled, the city has shifted into a planning mode.
Many Avon Lake residents have already decided to take the day off from work due to either anticipation or fear of getting stuck in heavy traffic. The city is collaborating with other communities in northeastern Lorain County to distribute the traffic evenly. Molnar explained, “We’re organizing different events at various locations throughout the city, trying our best to distribute the traffic as evenly as possible.”
Handling the influx of vehicles and ensuring smooth traffic flow are essential to prevent congestion. Molnar emphasized the importance of redirecting vehicles back onto the freeway using different roads. The Avon Lake Police Department has prior experience in managing events with large crowds, such as the Beer Fest at Miller Road Park. However, handling multiple events simultaneously presents a new challenge.
Besides coordinating traffic, the Police Department is also taking steps to address any potential issues. They plan to set up metal detectors and implement other safety measures at different event locations across the city. Molnar acknowledged the prevailing concerns, saying, “There’s always some concern, it’s the world we live in these days. But we are prepared for the worst while hoping for the best.”
Despite the expected traffic and potential challenges, Molnar expressed his excitement for Avon Lake to shine on April 8. He stated, “It’s going to require significant manpower, but we have been planning for this for a year and a half. Visitors can expect a friendly Midwestern environment that warmly welcomes them and encourages them to enjoy everything our city has to offer.”