SOUTHWICK – The nationally-televised 2017 Motocross Nationals takes place in town this weekend and will bring in thousands of people from all over the country and across the world.
With such a high volume of people descending on Southwick for a short span of days, local law enforcement wants to remind the community that there will be more traffic in town than usual.
“You can count on there being traffic,” said Southwick Police Chief David Ricardi.
On Wednesday night, the Southwick Police Department issued a statement about the traffic expectations occurring in Southwick, especially on Feeding Hills Road/Route 57, since the race takes place behind American Legion Post 338 on Powder Mill Road.
Ricardi hopes that anyone who endures traffic, to be mindful of their surroundings.
“We’re going to try and move traffic as quickly as possible,” said Ricardi. “We’re just asking the people to be patient and be considerate of other motorists (on the road).”
For those who are attending the Motocross Nationals, there will be a full staff of police officers on hand, and more than enough signage displayed directing people to where they need to go.
Although traffic is a major focal point this weekend, Southwick Police also wants to remind spectators of other rules and safety precautions.
Southwick Police wants to remind spectators and residents of Southwick about the upcoming weekend. (Photo courtesy of The Wick 338)
The event is permitted to sell alcohol on the racing grounds and will not allow people to bring their own alcohol or a cooler containing alcohol into the races.
Ricardi mentioned that in the past, he has seen individuals bring alcohol-filled coolers and then be told in the ticket line that they have to bring the cooler back to their vehicle in the parking lot.
It is certainly an inconvenience for people and something that Ricardi wants to see reduced.
“We want to let them know that ahead of time,” said Ricardi. “We’re just trying to save them a few footsteps.”
This is an outdoor event that typically includes hot weather so police want spectators to know that dogs or any other pets are not allowed on the premises.
If pets aren’t allowed on the event grounds, this also means that it’s not okay to leave your pet locked in your car. Southwick Police has dealt with this scenario on several occasions in the past and assures people that leaving the window cracked open isn’t a smart or safe alternative either.
Anyone who is caught doing so, will have the animal removed from them, and could be subject to fees and fines.
Ricardi and the rest of the department simply want residents and other spectators to obey their rules and hopefully the event will draw in more people than ever before.
“We’re looking forward to hopefully a big crowd,” said Ricardi.
For more information on the 2017 Motocross Nationals, visit The Wick 338 website.
