On April 8, 2024, at approximately 1:40 p.m., a rare total solar eclipse is set to pass over the City of Fort Worth. With anticipation building, the Fort Worth Police Department is issuing safety tips to ensure a once-in-a-lifetime viewing experience for all.
As Texas braces for the longest durations of totality in the country, the Police Department is urging both locals and visitors to plan ahead for safe viewing. Chief of Police Neil Noakes emphasized the importance of designated safe spots, urging people to refrain from stopping on roadways or parking on shoulders to view the eclipse.
"We encourage our community and visitors to the great City of Fort Worth to avoid the roadways as much as possible during this time," Chief Noakes stated. "While this is a rare event, we urge people to not stop on the roadways to view the eclipse, do not park on the shoulder or exit your vehicle and please keep moving."
To ensure smooth traffic flow, the department recommends parking in designated safe spots during the eclipse. Additionally, drivers are advised to have a full tank of gas due to an expected influx of out-of-town visitors and increased traffic.
Prioritizing emergency response, the Police Department, in collaboration with TXDOT and Texas Highway Patrol, will enforce traffic laws to prevent disruptions caused by slow-moving vehicles. Drivers impeding traffic may face penalties, as per traffic regulations.
The City of Fort Worth is also hosting various events to enhance the eclipse viewing experience. Residents and visitors can access a list of these events on the city's website at https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/solar-eclipse-2024.
For real-time traffic updates, individuals are encouraged to visit www.DriveTexas.org. By adhering to safety guidelines and traffic regulations, everyone can enjoy this celestial phenomenon while ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and emergency response services in Fort Worth.
