INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis is in the path of totality for the once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. City leaders say we can also expect once-in-a-lifetime crowds, with more than 100,000 visitors.
“Our city has had ample opportunity to learn from the experience of others in the past, and we want everyone to know what to expect as Indy experiences this incredibly rare event,” Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said. “We are preparing residents to encounter highly increased levels of crowds and traffic, while ensuring everybody in town enjoying the eclipse that safety will be our top priority.”
A local organizing committee of 50 civic leaders started planning for the unique celestial event years ago.
“Despite the eclipse lasting less than four minutes, we know that this phenomenon is out of this world and one that people from around the world will travel to see,” said Taylor Schaffer, with Downtown Indy, Inc.
More than 60 events are planned around Indianapolis.
One of the main attractions will be the watch party at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The goal is to turn race fans into space fans.
“The combination of the astronauts and the race car drivers, we feel like there was a perfect match,” said Allison Melangton, senior vice president of Penske Entertainment.
IMS expects 50,000 people to come from all 50 states and 26 countries.
Unlike the Indy 500, IMS said 80% of people who purchased tickets are likely first-time visitors.
“It also means those people don't know exactly where they are going once they get to the track. So we are going to do a great job with our yellow shirts and signage to make sure everybody gets to their seats and has a great experience,” Melangton said.
Similar to race day, traffic will also cause headaches.
“We are expecting Indy 500s all over the place when it comes to not only traffic, but also pedestrians and visitors alike," Indiana State Police Capt. Ron Galaviz said.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
IMPD will deploy officers on foot, bike, ATV and motorcycles throughout the city. This will allow officers to respond to active incidents quickly.
Mobile trailer cameras and drones will be deployed near major events and attractions, giving officers an additional view.
Officers will remain vigilant, particularly around hospital entrances and nearby roads, to facilitate clear passage for ambulances and emergency vehicles.
IMPD has adjusted staffing schedules, including canceling middle shift days off, to ensure sufficient coverage in all districts.
MESA
The Emergency Operation Center will be activated on the morning of April 8 and will be open all day to address any emerging issues.
Residents and visitors in Marion County can text ECLIPSEINDY to 67283 to receive public safety messages and can also click here for more information.
Indianapolis Fire Department
IFD will monitor the event from the IFD Operations Center and is prepared to respond to issues as they arise.
Alternate vehicles, such as UTVs and department SUVs, will be ready to respond in case there are transportation challenges due to traffic.
Indy Parks
Park rangers will be focused on patroling area parks, where large crowds are expected to view the once-in-a-lifetime event.
Residents are encouraged to register and arrive early if they plan on visiting one of Indy Parks’ 12 featured eclipse watch sites.
Department of Public Works
Indy DPW will also be monitoring and adjusting operations to minimize the number of vehicles on the roads during the busiest traffic times.
The event is also expected to impact solid waste services, as these large vehicles will be pulled off the streets at 1:30 p.m. Monday.
Residents with Monday trash hauling serviced by Indy DPW are asked to place their trash carts out Sunday night, if possible. Any households whose trash is not picked up on Monday can leave their cart out until Tuesday, when routes will be completed.
Safety tips for residents and visitors
- During the eclipse, individuals are asked to refrain from pulling over on highways or roadsides to watch the event. Instead, spectators are encouraged to exit the roadway safely and park in designated viewing areas.
- Motorists should plan ahead and allow extra travel time, ensure vehicles are fueled, and stock up on essentials such as water, snacks and medication. Pedestrian safety is also emphasized, with drivers cautioned to be extra vigilant and observant.
- Drivers are reminded not to wear eclipse glasses while operating a vehicle.