COLUMBUS, Ohio – As Pride month unfolds across Central Ohio, the city of Columbus gears up for its annual Pride Festival and March, set to bring vibrant celebrations and temporary street closures to downtown areas. The festivities, scheduled for this weekend, will necessitate strategic traffic adjustments to ensure safety and facilitate event logistics.

Street Closures in Effect

Starting immediately and lasting until Saturday’s cleanup efforts conclude, the following road segments will be closed:

• Dennison Ave: Goodale St to Buttles Ave
• Park St: Buttles Ave to Swan St
• Buttles Ave: Dennison Ave to High St
• Russell St: Park St to High St
• Lincoln St: Park St to High St
• Poplar Ave: Park St to High St

Saturday Morning March Details

The Pride March, a focal point of the festivities, is scheduled to commence promptly at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, starting at the intersection of Broad and High Streets. To facilitate the smooth progress of the march, additional closures will be implemented beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday:

• High St: Main St to Broad St
• Rich St: 3rd St to Front St
• Town St: High St to Front St
• State St: 3rd St to Front St

High Street, an iconic thoroughfare for the event, will observe closures from Rich Street to Buttles Avenue as participants traverse from Downtown towards the Short North neighborhood.

Event Impact and Community Engagement

The Columbus Pride Festival and March represent not only a celebration of LGBTQ+ pride but also a significant cultural event drawing diverse communities together. Beyond its cultural significance, the event contributes to the local economy through increased tourism and patronage of businesses along the event route.

Safety and Accessibility

Authorities emphasize safety measures during the closures, ensuring emergency access and alternate routes are maintained for residents and businesses in affected areas. Event organizers have coordinated with local law enforcement and public safety agencies to manage traffic flow and provide assistance as needed.

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity

The Pride Festival and March in Columbus exemplify the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, offering a platform for advocacy and visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. With a history dating back decades, the event continues to grow in attendance and impact, reflecting broader societal shifts towards equality and acceptance.

Traffic and Transit Adjustments

Residents and visitors are advised to plan ahead for temporary traffic delays and parking restrictions in downtown Columbus during the event period. Alternative transportation options such as public transit or ridesharing services may alleviate congestion and simplify travel logistics.

Conclusion: Embracing Pride in Columbus

As Columbus prepares to host its annual Pride Festival and March, the city anticipates a weekend filled with festivities, community spirit, and expressions of pride. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to participate in celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity. For the latest updates on event schedules and street closures, download The Local News App to stay informed and engaged.

By Frank John

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