The traffic headaches could turn into an absolute nightmare Tuesday when thousands flock to the KFC Yum Center to see Taylor Swift. It's the biggest event downtown since the Sherman Minton Bridge closed.
So if you thought your afternoon commute was bad enough these past few weeks, officials say drivers could reach new levels of frustration Tuesday. For some fans, showing up early to see their idol Taylor Swift won't be a problem. Kristen Fabiano and Kendall Merrit plan on arriving by noon for the 7 p.m. show.
"We're going to be standing out here with our signs, blasting Taylor Swift music, dancing, singing," said Fabiano. That may not be an option for other fans. Those arriving to the Yum Center closer to show time may run into grid-lock near the Second Street Bridge. There will be 14,000 extra people trying to get into the Yum Center.
"It's a big night, but the concern we have is getting here early. We're encouraging everyone to come down here a little bit earlier than they would normally," said KFC Yum Center General Manager Ted Nicholson.
Other than urging an early arrival, officials say there's not much else they can do. The same goes for Louisville Police. "The keyword is probably patience," said Lt. Doug Sweeney. "We can only rush so much water through a half-inch pipe, but we'll get it through as quickly as we can."In an effort to keep traffic moving, LMPD plans on putting more officers at more intersections. It's also advising drivers to steer clear of those areas if possible.
"If you don't have to be downtown at all, especially around the river, Second Street, Third Street, Market, Main, etc. Please avoid it," Sweeney said. Police say the Taylor Swift show will be challenging, but it will provide experience for other events. After all, basketball season starts next month.
Tuesday's concert is a make-up show. Swift had to cancel an appearance here in July after she came down with bronchitis.