Roads into downtown Dallas are expected to experience rolling closures this afternoon during the total solar eclipse.
From 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Monday, major roadways moving into downtown will see intermittent closures, according to the Dallas Police Department. Exits leading out will remain open.
With over 400,000 people anticipated to descend on the City for the event, the controlled closures are being used to help manage traffic flow. The impact of the closures will encompass a ring of roads that encircle the downtown core, including I-35, I-45, I-10, U.S. 87, U.S. 90, U.S. 281, and U.S. 290.
As The Dallas Express previously reported, the City is also beefing up public transportation options and providing safe viewing locations throughout Dallas.
Businesses, too, are gearing up for the surge in traffic. Craig Davis, president and CEO of Visit Dallas, estimates businesses will see roughly 35% more activity than expected at this time of year. Dallas-Plano-Irving areas expect nearly $154 million in direct expenditures tied to tourism around the total solar eclipse, while Dallas County expects almost $96 million.
The eclipse will commence today at 12:23 p.m. and conclude at 3:02 p.m. Totality itself will last for just four minutes, from 1:40 p.m. to 1:44 p.m.
It is crucial to wear solar viewing glasses to protect your eyes during the event. Fortunately, many of the venues hosting eclipse-viewing parties in the City are offering free protective eyewear while supplies last.
If you still do not have plans for this exceedingly rare phenomenon, check out some of the many events occurring in the City today. Once today is through, individuals will not get a chance to view a total solar eclipse in Dallas for nearly 300 more years.
