FAYETTEVILLE, W.Va. — Bridge Day is this Saturday and Fayette County Sheriff Jess McMullen said they hope to get the entire crowd in and out of the area with as few headaches as possible.
“They will be closed down at 7 a.m. that day and we will not open it back up until 5:00 that afternoon, so traffic will be rerouted as it is every year,” said McMullen.
Those coming to Bridge Day are advised to park in advertised areas and take a shuttle or walk to the New River Gorge Bridge. Motorists can park along US Route 19 as well. The bridge will not open to pedestrians until 9 a.m. and you’ll have to clear security. The checkpoint will be very much like any stadium security check point with no weapons, drugs, or alcohol allowed. Bags will need to be clear with the exception of small purses and those are subject to search. The crowd will need to start clearing off the bridge at 3 p.m.
If you’re just passing through the area on your way to a distant destination, the detour will be US Route 60 to Chimney Corner and then on Route 16 back to Fayetteville or vice-versa if you’re headed in the other direction. The detour will add 45 minutes to an hour to your trip. According to the Sheriff, if you’re just passing through, it’s advisable to stay on the Interstate and don’t even bother with U.S. Route 19 for the day. Semis will have no choice
“Tractor-trailer traffic has to stay on I-79 and travel on to Charleston and then take I-64 to Beckley. Then vice-versa coming from Beckley tractor trailer traffic will stay on the interstate,” he explained.
It would probably be a smoother trip for passenger vehicles as well trying to avoid any larger delays. McMullen said it would also help reduce congestion for the festival as well.
Bridge Day is always the third Saturday in October and it’s the one day of the year when it’s legal to walk on the New River Gorge Bridge. The north bound lanes host the festival; the south bound lanes are left open for shuttles and emergency vehicles. It’s the largest one-day event in the state and typically draws around 100,000 people.
The weather isn’t looking promising for the weekend, so McMullen suggested bringing a jacket and rain gear.
“Just dress accordingly, it’s going to be chilly. Just be patient and have a fun trip,” he said.