April 09, 1998|BY A SUN STAFF WRITER
In an effort to avoid a logistical nightmare when six major events converge in Annapolis May 3, Gov. Parris N. Glendening urged Marylanders yesterday to come early to Sandy Point State Park, the Bay Bridge and City Dock -- and to bring their common sense.
The combination of events will be "the single biggest nexus of excitement and activity in the state," said Glendening. More than 200,000 people are expected at the restart of the Whitbread Round the World Race off Sandy Point State Park, the race "village" and maritime festival at City Dock, and a boat show nearby, and at the annual Bay Bridge Walk, the annual Bay Bridge Run and the Sandy Point Water Festival.
At a State House news briefing, the governor and state and local officials explained how they plan to direct traffic and pedestrians and provide adequate parking.
"There are two things that Marylanders can do to ensure an enjoyable experience," Glendening said. "One, get information [on the events] in advance and prepare yourself. And, two, use common sense. Think things through thoroughly before arriving."
State Highway Administration officials expect heavy traffic from 7: 30 a.m. to 8: 30 p.m. from the junction of U.S. 50 and Interstate 97 through Annapolis, across the Bay Bridge and to the split of U.S. 50 and U.S. 301 on the Shore.
The only parking at Sandy Point State Park will be for the 3,000 Bay Bridge Run participants. The Highway Administration has set up separate parking lots for the Bay Bridge Walk and the start of the eighth leg of the Whitbread race. Shuttle buses will take spectators to the events.
Parking for the Bay Bridge Walk, which begins at 9 a.m., will be available at Anne Arundel Community College, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and, on the Eastern Shore, Chesapeake Bay Business Park. Shuttle service begins at 8: 30 a.m. For information on the walk, call 800-541-9595.
The bridge walk is expected to attract 50,000 to 60,000 participants.
Parking for the Whitbread restart, which begins at 1 p.m., will be in lots off Riva Road in Annapolis and at Admiral Cochrane Business Park, Annapolis Senior High School, Anne Arundel Swimming Center and other nearby lots.
For on-the-water viewing, the Coast Guard and state and federal agencies are establishing anchorages for spectator fleets and a zone off-limits to spectator boats where the nine Whitbread yachts will race.
Pub Date: 4/09/98
