One Evansville Riverfront Location will Close to Public During Eclipse
The upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is a hot topic around town as many businesses and organizations prepare not only for the influx of visitors to the Evansville area but also for viewing events and parties.
However, one downtown Evansville location says don't expect to watch the eclipse from their riverfront location.
READ MORE: There Is an App to Help Plan Your Eclipse Viewing Experience
Solar Eclipse Viewing in Downtown Evansville, Indiana
An entire day's worth of festivities are planned in Downtown Evansville for the upcoming solar eclipse. In fact, organizers say the festivities are set to take place from 11 am - 4pm on April 8th. A large portion of Riverside drive will be closed to vehicular traffic to allow residents and visitors alike the opportunity to take part in the viewing event that will include food trucks, games, music and more.
One Riverfront Location Won't Be a Good Eclipse Viewing Option
While Dress Plaza, and Evansville's riverfront is a prime viewing location for the once-in-a-lifetime celestial event, one riverfront location says it "will not be a good place to view the eclipse."
Not Enough Staff for Anticipated Large Eclipse Crowds
Officials with Evansville Water and Sewer Utility said in a statement to Facebook that due to a lack of staff "to manage a large crowd," they have decided to close Sunrise Pump Station to the public on Monday, April 8, 2024.
Sunrise Pump Station Closed to Public on Eclipse Day
Sunrise Pump Station, and its water feature known as The Cascade, opened in April 2023. On April 8, 2024, the lobby and indoor restrooms will be closed to the public. Officials say the outside restrooms will be open from 8 am until 4 pm that day. They say that the area will not be a good eclipse viewing location due to photosensitive security lights that will automatically turn on as it gets dark outside. They also say that public safety is a concern.
EWSU officials made the decision to close the building after careful consideration and determining the pump station will not be a good place to view the eclispe. The pump station and upper observation deck are surrounded by security lights that automatically turn on when sunlight dims, which will make it difficult to see the eclipse. Public safety is also a concern because of a large influx of people expected to visit Evansville to watch the total solar eclipse.
Downtown Evansville Traffic Will be Diverted for Eclipse Activities
For those traveling into or out of downtown Evansville on April 8th, Downtown Evansville says Riverside Drive will be closed to traffic between Cherry and Court Streets beginning at 8 am with traffic being redirected along Second Street. Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana State Police, and Indiana Department of Homeland Security recommend those planning to view the eclipse to “arrive early – stay put – leave late.”
[Source: EWSU via Facebook]
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Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals