Friday 13th in May only one in 2022
Norfolk County is preparing for a busy day in Port Dover now that another Friday the 13th motorcycle rally looms on the horizon.
In a news release Thursday, the county says it is working with the Port Dover Board of Trade, Port Dover Kinsmen, the Port Dover Lions and Norfolk County OPP to ensure the event runs smoothly and that all involved have a good time.
Planning for the event, which occurs May 13, involves co-ordinating on traffic-related issues, emergency contingency plans, licensing requirements, and bylaw enforcement issues “to ensure a safe and enjoyable motorcycle enthusiast event,” the county says.
The county expects the May rally to be similar to those that occurred prior to the declaration of a global pandemic in March, 2020. This includes “the return of street vendors and beer tents and camping for out-of-town visitors at their respective sites ,” the county says.
Because a large number of motorcycles and pedestrians are expected in town, some streets and sections of streets in downtown Port Dover will be closed Thursday, May 12, Friday, May 13, and into the early morning hours of Saturday, May 14 to prevent traffic gridlock and to improve public safety. The temporary closures are as follows:
From 3 am Friday, May 13, to midnight Saturday, May 14:
- Nelson Street East from St. Patrick Street to Highway 24.
- Greenock Street West from St. George Street to Richardson Drive.
- Richardson Drive from Nelson Street West to Greenock Street West.
From 4 pm Thursday, May 12, to 4 am Saturday, May 14 the following streets and sections of street will also be closed:
- Main Street from Clifford Street to Walker Street.
- Market Street East from Main Street to St. Andrew Street.
- Market Street West from St. George Street to Main Street.
- Park Street.
The county adds that motorists who live in the closed sections listed will not have to show proof of residency or employment in the areas in question. However, they will have to respect signage prohibiting parking on the street wherever they are posted.
Residents and workers, the county says, “still must adhere to the bylaw prohibiting driving and parking on streets that are closed. Shuttle service will not be offered this year.”
More information on the municipality’s preparations for next month’s rally are available at the Norfolk County website.