Media/Press

August 24, 2009

Fair Continues Successful Traffic and Parking Plan

A new traffic and parking plan launched at the Alaska State Fair last year got fairgoers in and out of the fairgrounds much faster and easier than in previous years, which is why the Fair will implement the successful plan again this year.

“The plan worked very well last year and surpassed expectations,” said Ray Ritari, Fair general manager. “We expect traffic to move smoothly again this year!”

Highlights from the traffic and parking plan, which is overseen by Starplex Corporation, include:

• Additional parking lots. Two additional parking lots will be opened on weekends and special event nights to expand parking capacity. One will accommodate traffic from Palmer and Wasilla via the Palmer-Wasilla Highway, while the other will be open to vehicles traveling from Anchorage and Wasilla via the Parks Highway.
• Extra flaggers. On weekends and special event nights, the Fair will have additional flaggers directing traffic. Flaggers will also be in place earlier in the day, and will be on-call on high-volume days.
• Tow-away zones. Parking on the Glenn Highway or right-of way by the fairgrounds is not allowed, as the Department of Transportation closes this area for the safety of pedestrians. The area will be clearly marked “no parking” and any vehicles parked there will be towed.

 

Other fairgoer driving and parking tips include:

• Carpooling and public transportation. Fairgoers are encouraged to use carpooling and public transportation, such as the Alaska Railroad train that runs from Anchorage to the fairgrounds, and the MASCOT bus, which provides weekday service between Palmer, Wasilla and Anchorage.
• Drop-off area. Drivers who wish to drop fairgoers off, or pick them up, are encouraged to use the designated drop-off area at the Green Gate, which is located by the train depot. To access the drop-off area, drivers should enter the Purple Drive-In Gate, off North Inner Springer Loop, and follow the signs to the Green Gate. Drivers may exit right only onto the Glenn Highway.
• Parking fees. Parking fees for a car, truck or motorcycle is $5, and RVs are $15. An additional $10 fee will be charged for fifth wheels or any vehicle with a tow-behind. Daily premier parking inside the Fair gates is offered on a space-available basis for $25.
• Motorcycle, handicap and RV parking. Motorcycle parking is at the north end of the fairgrounds only. Handicap-accessible parking is available at the Red, Yellow and Purple Lots, which offer the closest entrance to the fairgrounds. RVs will be directed to Inner Springer South, then onto Rebarchek Road, where they should follow signage to the RV parking area. 
• No pets. Fairgoers are advised to leave pets at home, as pets are not allowed on the grounds and it is not advisable to leave them in a vehicle while attending the Fair.

 

For more information and tips, visit alaskastatefair.org or call 907-746-7193 or 907-746-7194.

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