ATLANTA — Festivals, sporting events and the return of Freaknik have sparked fears of heavy traffic to several neighborhoods in Atlanta this weekend.
Tens of thousands of people are expected in town for the events and the mayor said the city is prepared for the unexpected.
INTERACTIVE MAP: Warning Areas & Events
Some of the events that could clog streets include the Dogwood Festival in Piedmont Park, Sweetwater 420 Festival in Candler Park and Freaknic.
The Atlanta Police Department canceled days off for officers this weekend, and officers will work 12-hour shifts to handle public safety issues. The department will use motorcycle, air and mounted patrol units to keep traffic moving.
HEAVY TRAFFIC AREAS: Piedmont Park Lenox Square Greenbriar Mall Peachtree Road at Piedmont Road Atlanta University Center Underground Atlanta Washington, Maddox, Perkerson, & Candler Park
Visitors to the city are encouraged to use MARTA. The department of transportation also canceled plans to repave parts of the downtown connector this weekend.