HPD issues traffic advisory for South Star Festival

HUNTSVILLE – With the South Star Festival at John Hunt Park just a few days away, the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) asks drivers to avoid the area unless they are attending the event.

The South Star Festival will be held this Saturday and Sunday and is expcted to draw thousands to Huntsville.

Jaycee Way and part of Steve Hettinger Drive will be closed through Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 6 p.m. to accommodate festival traffic as well as post-event breakdown. One lane of Leeman Ferry Road will be closed to provide a pedestrian walkway from Drake Avenue to Island Circle, but two-way traffic will be maintained through that intersection.

Drivers should anticipate congestion on Memorial Parkway and the access roads, especially around Joe Davis Stadium, Airport Road and Leeman Ferry Road.

“We are asking drivers to use caution and watch for pedestrians in the area,” HPD Chief Kirk Giles said. “We also encourage drivers to find a designated driver, use ride-share services or take public transit if they plan to consume alcohol at the event.”

To prevent overwhelming 911 dispatchers, please call the non-emergency number, 256-722-7100, to reach HPD, unless it’s a genuine emergency.