NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — Niagara Falls is expected to be one of the busiest spots in Western New York for those traveling to view the solar eclipse.
National Geographic ranked the city as one of the best places to adventure for the eclipse citing the promise of a 2-for-1 natural wonder experience.
Given the possibility of large crowds, the Niagara Falls Police Traffic Division is implementing a few road and lane closures ahead of the big day.
The following road closures go into effect starting after noon on Sunday:
- 1st Street at Rainbow Boulevard Round-About to Niagara Street
- 2nd Street at Rainbow Boulevard (between the Jefferson Apartment and the Cadence)
- Falls Street at John B Daly Blvd
- Falls Street at 9th Street
- Falls Street at Alley between 9th and 10th Streets
- Falls Street at 10th Street (Westbound Traffic)
- 10th Street at Niagara Street (Local Traffic Only)
- Median on John B Daly Blvd at Casino Hotel Entrance
City of Niagara Falls parking lots will be open during their usual hours for those driving or taking a bus to the Falls to view the event. Niagara Falls Police told 2 On Your Side that picnics and tailgating in lots will be allowed to an extent.
"It will be like, hopefully like a sports Bills' game atmosphere, and as long as people don't get too out of hand there shouldn't be an issue," said Police Superintendent Nicholas Ligammari.
Ligammari encouraged people to arrive early because the city is expected to be crowded.