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Launch of Public Consultation for SouthEast EV Strategy

“Region 5” consisting of Tipperary, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford City and County Councils are seeking public input to inform the development of a regional EV Strategy. The goal of the strategy is to address the challenges and opportunities in deploying EV charging infrastructure in the South-East region. Public consultation opens on May 1st and runs until 4pm on May 30th 2025. This consultation invites residents, stakeholders, and the general public to share their views and input on the future of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in their areas.

By developing a comprehensive network of strategically located charging stations, the strategy is intended to support the growing number of EVs on our roads, ensuring that all areas are adequately served and help meet our climate action targets. The Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan published for consultation by ZEVI (Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland) in 2024 sets out minimum charging capacity requirements for local authorities per geographical area. En-route charging along major highways and travel routes are being supported separately by Transport Infrastructure Ireland. As part of this regional consultation, stakeholders are asked to consider two key types of local charging infrastructure when providing their inputs:

 

  • Destination charging which involves installing charging stations at popular destinations such as shopping centres, hotels, and tourist attractions.
  • Neighbourhood charging focuses on providing charging options within residential areas,
    making it easy for EV users to charge their vehicles convenient to their residence.

Your feedback will be instrumental in developing a comprehensive EV charging infrastructure strategy that meets the needs of our communities and facilitates sustainable transport. The questionnaire is accessible at the following web address (www.southeastevstrategy.com) from May 1st until 4pm on May 30th 2025.

Remedial works at Kilbarry Nature Park

Over the course of the coming weeks Waterford City and County Council will be carrying out management and maintenance works at Kilbarry Nature Park, Tramore Road.

The purpose of these works is to ensure that Waterford City and County Council complies with the requirements to manage and maintain Kilbarry Nature Park under its registered EPA licence.

Please note that to facilitate these remedial works and to ensure health & safety, a section of the perimeter walking path will be closed temporarily from today (Wednesday, April 30th). Diversion routes will be set up to facilitate the use of the park by the public where paths remain open, and the public is urged to follow all diversion routes during the course of these works.

Waterford City and County Council apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Local artists light up Waterford

You may be wondering about the colourful silhouettes surrounding our streets and some of Waterford City’s iconic buildings. 

As part of the City of Lights project supported by the Fáilte Ireland Urban Animation Scheme, this inaugural project, commissioned by Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Cultural Quarter has been months in the making and showcases the work of two local Waterford artists, Dan O’Neill Audio and Visual artist, and Vadim Taranenko, showcasing and piloting the Fáilte Ireland funded ‘City of Lights’.

Dan O’Neill of Mene Audio Visual is a Waterford-based artist with qualifications in sound engineering, music production, audio-visual media and visual communications.  He explores the intersection of light, sound and design, drawing on experience in both traditional and digital media, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to creative projects.

Dan explained how this was a “fantastic learning experience” in which he initially explored full colour illustrations and abstract solutions before refining the design into stylised silhouettes of Waterford’s Quayside buildings on a ‘sunset’ backdrop.  The projection process dictated colour and composition choices in unexpected ways and became a rewarding challenge, rather than a traditional arrangement, adding that he aimed to create a stamp-like emblem, a circular skyline composition representing Waterford as an energetic, welcoming and vibrant historic City, creating something that evokes a sense of place.

For his GOBO design, Vadim Taranenko said he “wanted to create something fun and playful that also included Waterford’s rich Viking history.  Working on this project, it was very exciting to know that the public would be able to engage with my work and that I was able to display my work on such a large scale.  As someone who grew up in Waterford, it felt surreal seeing my design shine over Hanover Street.”

Vadim Taranenko, also known as ‘Chango Pongo’ online, is a digital illustrator / animator based in Waterford.  “I would describe my work as ‘Playful Fantasy.’  It’s often cute, whimsical and draws inspiration from video games, visual novels and animation”, Taranenko notes.

Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Cultural Quarter ‘City of Lights’ Pilot Project will continue into a second phase, showcasing this unique Waterford work by local artists, on buildings of cultural heritage significance throughout the coming Autumn and Winter and into 2026, increasing the animation and visibility of the City during the darker months.

Highlights from Recent Mayoral Receptions

In recent weeks, Mayor Cllr. Jason Murphy hosted a series of Mayoral Receptions to celebrate remarkable individuals and groups whose contributions have shaped and uplifted life in Waterford. Their stories are powerful examples of community spirit, resilience, and dedication.

Waterford Dragon Boat Club

The Waterford Dragon Boat Club were celebrated for their extraordinary spirit and camaraderie. Formed by women recovering from cancer, they have built a sanctuary of strength and support through the simple but powerful act of paddling together. Their presence on the River Suir shines as a symbol of hope, friendship, and renewal.

Betty Gough

Betty Gough was honoured for a lifetime of quiet leadership and selfless action within her community. From organising neighbourhood events to fostering sporting and youth activities, Betty’s efforts have helped weave Lisduggan into a stronger, kinder place. Her legacy lives on through the generations she has inspired.

Waterford Special Olympics Club

The Waterford Special Olympics Club received recognition for their outstanding achievements at the World Winter Games in Turin. Athletes such as Clive Healy, James Upton, Niall Corcoran, and Damien Kirwan brought home medals and broke new ground internationally. Their energy, skill, and determination have lifted the entire city.  Additionally, George Fitzgerald was acknowledged as the first Special Olympics Ireland athlete to serve as an Assistant Coach for Team Ireland.

Mae McGrath

Mae McGrath was celebrated for more than seven decades of enriching Waterford through music. A gifted organist and tireless volunteer, Mae has introduced thousands of children to the joy of music, filling churches, schools, and hearts with melodies that will be remembered for a lifetime.

These receptions remind us that Waterford’s greatest strength lies not just in its history, but in the people who continue to shape its future with generosity, resilience, and creativity.

Get on Your Bike – Bike Week 2025 is Here!

Waterford Bike Week 2025

Dust off your helmet, pump up those tyres, and get ready to roll – Bike Week 2025 is just around the corner! Running from 10th to 18th May 2025, Waterford is celebrating all things cycling with a brilliant line-up of free events for all ages and abilities.

This year’s programme is packed with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, build your confidence on two wheels, and discover some of Waterford’s most beautiful routes.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Early Rides and Lunchtime Spins

We’re kicking things off in style with a Dawn Cycle to Tramore on Saturday 10th May – an early start but well worth it for the sunrise! If early mornings aren’t your thing, we’ve plenty of lunchtime cycles too, including a 6km Picnic Cycle from the House of Waterford Crystal on Wednesday 14th May – perfect for a midday adventure.

Waterford Wheels – Greenway Adventures

Our popular Waterford Wheels events return, offering guided Greenway cycles from Durrow to Dungarvan and Carriganore. If you’ve always wanted to try the Greenway but weren’t sure where to start, these are perfect – all you need is a bike and a sense of fun!

Something for Everyone

Whether you’re new to cycling or looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve thought of you.

  • Cycle Training for Older Adults at the Regional Sports Centre offers a welcoming environment for getting comfortable on a bike again.
  • A Beginner Cycling Session at Carriganore on Tuesday 13th May gives you a friendly introduction to the basics.
  • The Men & Women’s Social Cycling Programme offers four relaxed evenings of sociable spins.

Families can join the Tea Time Cycle from Carriganore, and the little ones can get involved too with the RSC Schools Cycling Festival – helping the next generation discover the joys of cycling.

Adventure Awaits

For those looking for something a little different, why not try:

  • Bike, Beach & Yoga at Walton Park, Dungarvan.
  • A Bike and Hike from Mount Melleray or Crough Wood Café, combining two of the best ways to experience Waterford’s natural beauty.
  • An Introduction to Mountain Biking session at Fairlane Park.

There’s even a Waterford Walls Cycle Tour, where you can pedal your way through some of the city’s stunning murals and street art!

Special Highlights

  • Waterford Greenway Night Cycle on Friday 16th May – an unforgettable experience cycling under the stars.
  • 30K Waterford to Wexford Cycle on Sunday 18th May – for those ready for a longer challenge.

All Events are Free – Just Register!

All events are free, but registration is required for most activities to help us manage numbers and keep everyone safe.
And don’t forget your helmet – it’s compulsory for all rides!

For full details, and to register, visit Waterford Bike Week.

Poetry Day Waterford

May 1st Poetry Day in Waterford will see and hear poets give exclusive readings in the City and County. This year the guest curator is non other than Waterford poet, writer, playwright and Seán Dunne Young Writer Awardee – Wayne Power.

The day kicks off at 11am with Joanne McCarthy in the Waterford Gallery of Art in O’Connell Street, Waterford and the night ends late in Phil Grimes, Waterford with a very special ‘Slip of the Tongue’ event.

  • 11am: Joanne McCarthy Poetry Workshop, Waterford Gallery Of Art, O’Connell Street, Waterford.
  • 11am: Communal ‘Writing Space’ in the Old Market House Arts Centre, Lower Main Street, Dungarvan (until 5pm). All writers welcome.
  • 1pm: Poet, DJ and activist Louis Quinlan and other Poets/Performers and music from Paula Marksith at Top of the City Community Gardens – St Carthage’s Avenue, Waterford, Ireland, X91 X3TR
  • 2pm: The Waxed Lemon Magazine Readings with Joanne McCarthy, Derek Flynn and Darragh Fleming at the Waterford Gallery Of Art, O’Connell Street, Waterford.
  • 3pm: Poetry Workshop with Mount Sion Secondary School with Wayne Power TBC
  • 3.30pm: “Remembering Seán Dunne” A celebration of the work of Seán Dunne curated by Martina Collendar at Theatre Royal vestibule
  • 4pm: The Poetry Lounge at The Book Centre with Ger Duffy with various poets including Mark Roper and Frank Farrelly.
  • 6pm: Poetry Day Rocks at Luca Records with Bonya, Porcelain Eyes, Elcaro, £rd Degree
  • 7pm: Poet, Journalist and Author, Peter Murphy in Tramore Library. Booking essential: 051 849594 or TramoreLibrary@Waterfordcouncil.ie
  • 7pm: Tullys Open Mic Poetry Day Special hosted by comedian Conor Roche
  • 8pm: Waterford Writers Open Mic at The Mansion House.
  • 8.30pm: -11pm ‘Slip of the Tongue‘ at Phil Grimes charity event with Mikey Cullen, Lauren Macnamara and Bonya. All proceeds to go to, Waterford Marine search and Rescue, Aware , Samaritans. Will also include Derek Flynn, Nicola Spendlove, and Mary O’Donoghue.

Waterford’s contribution to Poetry Ireland’s National Poetry Day is by Waterford Council’s Arts Service. It is curated by Wayne Power and produced by Conor Nolan for WC&CC.

Public Consultation: Draft Litter Management Plan 2025 – 2028

Waterford City & County Council is committed to keeping our streets, parks, and communities clean – but we need your input!

The Draft Litter Management Plan 2025 – 2028 is now open for public consultation, and this is your opportunity to shape how we tackle litter and waste in Waterford. Whether it’s improving bin facilities, addressing illegal dumping, or promoting waste reduction, we want to hear your views.

The draft plan is available online at consult.waterfordcouncil.ie, where you can also make a submission.

How to Submit Your Feedback

🖥 Online: consult.waterfordcouncil.ie (Preferred)
📩 Email: envsubmissions@waterfordcouncil.ie
📮 Post: Environment Dept., Waterford City & County Council, City Hall, The Mall, Waterford
🗓 Deadline: 4:00 PM on April 30, 2025

Download Draft Document

Motorcycle Safety Warning as Hospital Data Reveals Concerning Injury Trends

 

As longer evenings and warmer weather signal the start of the peak motorcycling season, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging all road users to take heightened precautions. And with over 90,000 motorcycling enthusiasts expected to attend the NorthWest200 in Northern Ireland next week, roads across the island will see a significant increase in motorcycle activity.

Tragically, this year has seen a rise in motorcyclist deaths. Already in 2025, 10 motorcyclists have lost their lives on Irish roads (1 January – 27 April). That’s an increase from 7 fatalities during the same period in 2024 and 4 fatalities during the same period in 2023.

New RSA research analysed hospital data from 2019 to 2023, which found that 1,556 motorcyclists were hospitalised following road traffic collisions. Of these, almost a third sustained clinically serious injuries, which have a higher probability of long-term consequences for the casualty after the collision.

Vision Zero

Key findings from hospital data available here relating to motorcyclists with clinically serious injuries include:

  • A large number involved young male motorcyclists aged 15–34.
  • Nearly half of clinically serious injuries occurred in single-vehicle collisions.
  • Lower limbs (29%), chest (17%), and head (15%) were the most affected areas.
  • Over one in three motorcyclists sustained multiple clinically serious injuries.
  • Almost 25% of motorcyclists with clinically serious injuries required transfer to another hospital for continued medical care.
  • Motorcyclists with clinically serious injuries spent on average over two weeks in hospital.

“We are urging motorcyclists to take every possible precaution, including to ride within speed limits and at a speed appropriate for the road and conditions, as well as anticipating the actions of others,” said Sarah O’Connor, Director of Partnerships & External Affairs at the Road Safety Authority.

“We encourage both motorists and motorcyclists to take time to look carefully, assess the road ahead, and anticipate potential hazards and other road users — that extra time, that extra look could be the difference between life or death.”

“Drivers need to be aware of motorcyclists, especially at junctions and in areas of high traffic flow. This is of particular importance over the summer months and weekends, when the risk of motorcycle fatalities and injury is heightened.”

Dublin dad Alan Rice was among the 22 motorcyclists killed on Irish roads in 2021. His daughter Laura describes the loss of her beloved dad in support of the RSA’s road safety awareness for motorcyclists.

“My Dad Alan had met his friend in Bray and they drove up the coastline to Skerries that day. They were riding home when he was in a collision with a man carelessly driving. Dad did nothing wrong and he was driving quite slowly waiting for his friend to catch him up after coming through a roundabout. He had all the right safety gear on, but it wasn’t enough to protect him when the man drove his car into him. Alan was thrown from his motorbike and landed on a grassy verge. His friend did all he could to try to keep him alive, but he died there on the side of the road with the sun sprinkling under the trees. No goodbyes, no hugs, just the deafening silence of him coming home to us in a box.”

Myles O’Brien from Mayo is a living testimony of the dangers and long-term consequences of collisions for motorcyclists. His life changed forever in a single vehicle crash on a bend two years ago.

“My crash was as a result of inexperience and a bit of speed. I came around the first part of an s-corner, changed down gears too much and the back wheel went into a slide. In my panic, I pulled the front brake and the accelerator at the same time. I was thrown off and my back hit a rock paralysing me from my breastbone down. My message to fellow motorcyclists would be to slow down, drive within your experience, stay focused and read the road.” 

For an in-depth review of the RSA’s research relating to serious injuries sustained by motorcyclists visit:

Safety Guidance for All Road Users:

For Motorcyclists:

  • Wear full protective gear including a helmet, jacket, trousers, gloves, boots, and high-vis clothing.
  • Ride within the speed limit and according to road and weather conditions.
  • Avoid taking risks—particularly at bends, junctions, and rural roads.
  • Be vigilant. Look into the far, middle and near distance, using your mirrors and checking over your shoulders (life-saver) before changing position or turning.
  • Keep your distance. In poor weather conditions, always leave a bigger gap between you and the vehicle ahead.
  • Be seen. Make sure your position is correct, use dipped headlights and wear high visibility clothing.
  • Avoid surprising other road users. Never do anything on the road that could cause others to slow down, brake, swerve or that could startle pedestrians.
  • Think like other road users. Anticipate how they might react to you and other road users.
  • Read the road and ride to current road, weather and traffic conditions.
  • Match your speed to the conditions and never let others dictate your pace.
  • Never ride your motorcycle after consuming alcohol or drugs.
  • Maintain your motorcycle properly. Regularly check petrol, oil, water, damage, electrics and tyres.

For Drivers:

  • Always look twice for motorcycles, especially before turning, overtaking, at junctions or changing lanes.
  • Be mindful that motorbikes may be hidden in your vehicle’s blind spots.
  • Allow motorcyclists extra space—especially in poor weather or on uneven road surfaces.

For more information and safety resources, visit Safe motorcycling advice from the RSA.

Two New Showstopper Exhibitions Launch At WGOA

The Waterford Gallery of Art on O’Connell Street was delighted to launch two new exhibitions this month showcasing some of the very best artistic talent in Ireland and the South East. Launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor Jason Murphy, the packed-out gallery celebrated an exquisite retrospective of paintings by Catherine Barron, as well as the group show, ‘Faith in the Process’ which includes highlights from the historic Waterford Art Collection alongside newer artworks, commissions and loans.

Titled, ‘You couldn’t make it up’, Barron’s exhibition in the downstairs galleries includes salvaged metal plates, vintage 78rpm records, book covers, and playing cards – all serving as the artists canvas to reveal a deeply personal, as well as allegorical, biographical journey. Catherine Barron is a Carlow born artist though has lived and works in Dungarvan co. Waterford since 2017. She has won numerous awards for her artwork and is represented by the prestigious Dublin-based, Molesworth Gallery.

Speaking of her work, Barron said, “What I realise is that the ordinary is extraordinary, and all that pains or brings joy can be realised with gratitude, wonder and awe. The power of the imagination does not lie in its ability to invent, but to see more deeply, what is. And what is, is so awesomeyou couldn’t make it up!

As Luke Currall, curator of the Waterford Art Gallery, notes in the introductory text to Catherine Barron’s exhibition, it is “through this experiential entry into, and reworking of time, memory and uncertainty, that a tender and life affirming mystery and magic quietly reveals itself in the artworks of Catherine Barron.”

The gallery’s ‘Faith in the Process’ exhibition, launched in its large upstairs space, includes artworks from the Waterford Art Collection, as well as loans and commissions, informed by religious or spiritual experience. Artists exhibiting include: George William Russell (AE), Mainie Jellett, Evie Hone, Father Jack P Hanlon, Annie Shaw, John Foley, Ireland3000, Pat O’Brien, Gerhardt Gallagher, Rayleen Clancy, Ben Henessy, Patrick Collins, Canon T Patrick, Louisa Marchioness of Waterford, Imogen Stuart and more.

On show is work by “the faithful, priests, mystics, lapsed Catholics as well as converts, chanNelers of the transcendental, objectives seekers of enduring tradition, works of commemoration and memorial, and ventures into mythical visualisations”. The gallery was particularly delighted to present significant new works by Rayleen Clancy of An Rinn, Waterford-born photographer, John Foley, Icons by Dungarvan-based Annie Shaw and large graphic prints by Limerick-born, Berlin-based artist, Ireland 3000 (Brian O’Shea).

The opening also saw the chance to launch a new painting by Pat O’Brien created in memory of Waterford native and local musician, Conor Cleare. The gallery is incredibly grateful to Hannah Brennan and the family and friends of Conor for their assistance and permission for this beautiful and poignant work to be shared publicly.

Both exhibitions are free and are open until August 16th.  The exhibitions were made possible through the continued support of Waterford City and County Council, Waterford Arts Office, Arts Council, Dr Abdul Bulbulia and the family of Gerhardt Gallagher.

Published: Weekly Planning Lists

Stay up-to-date with the latest planning applications and decisions in Waterford City and County. Each Friday, we publish a comprehensive list detailing new applications, permissions granted, and other updates. Access the latest planning lists here to stay informed about developments in your area.

See https://waterfordcouncil.ie/documents/planning-lists/

Waterford Festival of Food kicking off today

Dungarvan is a hive of excitement with this year’s Waterford Festival of Food kicking off today, Friday April 25th for 3 days of amazing food, drink, and festival fun

There will even be a giant Seaweed Queen which will move regally through outdoor market crowds during this weekend’s festival!

Waterford Festival of Food CEO Eunice Power says “Spraoi’s Seaweed Queen will bring creativity and environmental awareness together in a beautiful way.”

On Saturday (April 26th)  the giant figure will move along Davitt’s Quay at 12.00 and 3.30 p.m. and she will re-appear at Grattan Square at 12.00 and 2.00 p.m. on Sunday.

Pelaria the Seaweed Queen is created by Waterford Spraoi to celebrate Dungarvan Bay’s rich marine life. The Seaweed Queen is raising awareness of the bay’s beauty and vunerability in an era of climate change.

Pelaria the Seaweed Queen is created by Spraoi as part of SETU’s ACT Waterford climate action project in partnership with Waterford City and County Council, and is funded by Creative Ireland.

AIB Press Photographer of The Year Award 2025 Exhibition to visit Waterford in May

AIB Press Photographer of The Year Award 2025 Exhibition to visit Waterford in May

Ireland’s stories in images for 2024 will continue its nationwide tour at Waterford Central Library in May.

The Press Photographers Ireland CLG (PPAI) exhibition will be on display in the library for visitors to enjoy from May 1st to May 17th, with the official launch event taking place on Wednesday, May 7th at 6.30pm.  All are welcome to attend.

The exhibition features 110 images in total capturing life, both at home and abroad during 2024 and showcases the very best of Irish press photography.

World renowned sports photographer, James Crombie – Inpho Photography – was awarded the trophy with Crombie being the unanimous choice of winner by the judges, who said, “We were all extremely impressed with the way the photographer nailed the best possible image from so many different situations inside and outside the field of play. This photographer is our unanimous choice as photographer of the year.”

This was the third occasion that the Westmeath resident has won the prestigious title now in its 47th year.

To view the full portfolio of winning and highly commended images from the AIB Press Photographer of Year Award 2025 please visit www.pressphotographers.ie

Tracy McEneaney from Waterford Libraries is delighted James Crombie, Press Photographer of the Year will be attending the launch and is looking forward to seeing the exhibition again this year, while David Branigan, President of Press Photographers Ireland CLG, said, “We are delighted that our exhibition is visiting Waterford next month and we hope that visitors from the local area and beyond will enjoy browsing through the award-winning and highly acclaimed imagery which demonstrates the hard work and commitment of our Irish press photographers.” 

Central Library is the only place in Waterford hosting the PPAI Exhibition, so don’t miss out.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy will launch the Irish Press Photography of the Year Exhibition in Waterford Central Library at Lady Lane on Wednesday, May 7th at 6.30pm and extends a welcome to all to attend.

For more information visit www.waterfordlibraries.ie

 

Road Closure arrangements for Waterford Festival of Food – 26th & 27th April 2025

Waterford City and County Council has confirmed temporary road closures in Dungarvan for the upcoming Waterford Festival of Food.


From 6am until 10pm Saturday 26th April the following roads shall close:

• Davitt’s Quay (from it’s Junction with Bridge Street to Harbour Street)
• Carberry’s Lane
• Galwey’s Lane
• Thompson’s Lane

Parking on all the above mentioned streets shall be restricted from 6pm the night before.
No parking shall be allowed on Davitt’s Quay during the road closures. Access to the Garvey’s
Supervalu Car Park on Davitt’s Quay shall be maintained via entrance on Cross Bridge Street,
with all vehicles exiting via Bridge Street.


Traffic Diversions – Saturday 26th April 2025

• All traffic travelling on the L3122 “The Lookout Road” shall be diverted via the L7158 Quay
Street to L3128 Church Street and onto the L3126 Emmett Street.

• All traffic travelling from the R911 T.F. Meagher Street shall be diverted onto the L3139
(North or South). There will be no access to eastbound traffic to the Causeway for the
duration of the event. Westbound traffic will be unaffected except for a 30 minute period
during the RNLI “Duck Race” event when the road shall close.

From 6am until 10pm Sunday 27th April the following roads shall close:
• Grattan Square
• Saint Mary’s Street
• T.F. Meagher Street
• Parnell Street
• O’Connell Street (from its junction with the R911 and Western Terrace)
• Crossbridge Street
• Galwey’s Lane
• Davitts Quay (from its junction with Castle Street to Thompson’s Lane)

Parking on all the above mentioned streets shall be restricted from 6pm the night before.


From 6pm until 10pm Sunday 27th April the following road shall close:
• L2060 Walsh Street


Traffic Diversions – Sunday 27th April 2025
• Travelling from the R911 The Causeway all traffic shall be diverted onto the L3139
(North or South)
• Travelling East on the R911 Saint Mary Street all traffic shall turn right onto the R672
O’Connell Street.
• All vehicles wishing to enter L3139 Davitts Quay from L3133 Harbour Street shall divert via
L7157 Castle Street to St. Augustine Street and onto L3126 Emmett Street.

Diversions will be in place, and access to local businesses will be maintained. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and follow all posted signage during the weekend festivities.