REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Johnathan Oliver Skinner, Director of Community Services Date:November 12, 2024
Subject:Update to Winterfest Road Closures for the 2024 Event Recommendation
Approve amended temporary road closures for the Winterfest Parade and Event in Historic Downtown and neighboring roads for the December 7, 2024 event, as identified in the attached traffic plans, and allow for changes as necessary and approved by the City Engineer.
Background
In August 2024, staff presented four event closure maps for the upcoming fall events in Downtown Lake Elsinore, including the 2024 Winterfest Parade and Event. Since the City Council’s initial approval, the Special Events team, in coordination with partner departments, identified adjustments to enhance event logistics, traffic management, and safety for all involved.
The specific changes include:
•Expanding the event closure area to encompass Graham Ave., from Spring St. to Main St.
•Extending the closure footprint to include Main St., from Sulphur St. to Graham Ave. •Highlighting all streets that will serve as detour routes, aiding city navigation during event closures.
These updates are designed to improve traffic flow and safety for both event attendees and city residents.
Discussion
To ensure public safety, road closures for the Winterfest Event are being submitted for City Council approval, with specific maps and details provided in the supporting attachments. 2024 Winterfest Road Closures Update
The Riverside County Sheriff's Department—Lake Elsinore Station, in collaboration with the Public Works Department, the Engineering Department, and the Community Services Department, will coordinate resources to execute the event in alignment with the attached road closure plan. For the highest level of safety, staff recommends enforcing the street closures identified in Exhibit A, supported by City staff and law enforcement.
Recognizing the need for flexibility in adapting to unforeseen circumstances, the road closure plan may be amended with approval from the City Engineer.
Fiscal Impact
Costs for staffing the road closures are budgeted in FY 2024/2025.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - Winterfest Event and Parade Closures Maps Community Services