'Arrive Early, Leave Late':City Officials Warn Residents Of Eclipse Traffic, Supply Shortages

WILSONVILLE, OR — In preparation for the eclipse next Monday, Wilsonville city officials issued advice for residents and visitors for how best to prepare for the expected influx of traffic that may last for several days beginning this weekend.

According to Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) officials, a record-setting number of cars are expected on Interstate-5 and highways 99E and 99W between Sunday, Aug. 20, and Tuesday, Aug. 22, with more than one million people expected to be in Oregon during the eclipse event on Monday, Aug. 21. With Wilsonville located just north of the main path of totality, city officials are anticipating larger than normal crowds at area restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores.

City leaders encourage residents to stock up this week on food and other life essentials, such as gas and medication, because there's a chance the increased number of people in the area could dramatically lower current supplies. Additionally, officials suggest workers and commuters plan their trips with the heavier traffic load in mind and develop a personal plan with family and friends for how to communicate should local cell service be overwhelmed.

Click here for tips on managing the increased traffic during the eclipse, courtesy of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.

"We suggest treating this eclipse event like a major snow-ice storm in terms of acquiring key supplies and gas in advance," Delora Kerber, Wilsonville Public Works Director, said in a statement. "Traffic congestion is anticipated to be considerably worse than normal, and to eclipse even 'Beavers versus Ducks' game-day traffic."

Local public transit agency South Metro Area Regional Transit (SMART) will operate normally but does expect some delays, and all city facilities will remain open during normal business hours, officials said. To check schedule updates for SMART or the WES commuter train, visit www.ridesmart.com and/or www.trimet.org.

ODOT's Trip Check website could also prove useful for folks planning trips on the days leading up to, during, and after the eclipse.

"The best advice for traveling during the eclipse is to arrive early; stay put; leave late," Police Chief Adam Phillips said. "Treat this 3-hour event as a 3-DAY event."

Image: HypnoArt via Pixabay.com