As the anticipation continues to intensify for an estimated 40,000 fans expected to fill the Carter-Finley Stadium this Wednesday evening, the State Highway Patrol and the Department of Transportation finalize plans to ensure concert goers a safe and enjoyable experience. For more than two months, both organizations have worked diligently on travel routes to and from the stadium, attempting to decrease waiting times before and after the event.
The State Highway Patrol has committed more than 60 troopers that will make up 30 traffic post around the perimeter of the stadium. Each post has been strategically placed with hopes to provide concert attendees more time within the stadium and less time in their vehicles.
Since Friday, June 26th, the Department of Transportation has placed digital message boards on area roadways notifying local residents of the upcoming concert. On the day of the event, those same message boards will be used to notify motorist of the best routes to the show. Motorists are encouraged to follow the routes provided by the Department of Transportation to ensure a constant flow of traffic.
“Safety will be our primary focus before and after the event," says Sgt. Michael Baker with the Highway Patrol. "Our plan is to provide concertgoers a positive memorable experience. This concert venue allows everyone working behind the scenes another opportunity to show local and out of state attendees that nothing compares to the State of North Carolina.”
Routes to consider:
- Drivers headed on I-440 West can take Exit 4-B (Wade Avenue) to Blue Ridge Road to Westchase Blvd.
- From I-495 South, drivers can take Exit 419 (I-440 West) to Wade Avenue to Blue Ridge Road to Westchase Blvd..
- From U.S. 1 North, drivers can take I-440 East to Exit 3 (Hillsborough Street) to Blue Ridge Road to Trinity Road.
Attendees are encouraged to park in designated parking lots that will be provided in and around the concert venue. Parking on the shoulders of interstate and secondary roadways is not only unlawful, but poses a safety risk to all motorists. Motorists are also encouraged to remove their vehicles from the roadway in the event of a minor vehicle collision.