Millcreek Township expects that over 100,000 visitors will be making their way to the area for April's Total Solar Eclipse. Because of this, the township is is alerting residents to their plans for the upcoming celestial event. 

The township is reminding residents to view the eclipse safely and to expect heavy traffic on the day of due to a surge of visitors in Eire County, and Presque Isle State Park. 

The township said residents should expect major roadways (pictured below) to be at a stop for hours directly following the eclipse. Totality is from 3:16 to 3:19 p.m. 

"We want Millcreek residents to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, with an unknown total of tens of thousands of visitors expected, we are asking residents to be smart and proactive," said Public Safety Liaison and Millcreek Township Supervisor Kim Clear. "We're making sure emergency personnel have a heavy presence and are ready to respond anywhere." 

Millcreek is urging residents to plan for traffic to be much heavier than normal leading up to the eclipse and at a standstill for the hours immediately following it. Officials are recommending that the best place for residents to view the eclipse is from home. 

Additionally, with tens of thousands of visitors expected throughout the region, the township says that parking is not guaranteed at any public gathering spaces. 

With heavy traffic expected along major roadways, Millcreek is urging residents to ask the following questions to make sure they are prepared: 

  • Am I stocked up on groceries? 
  • Do I have any appointments scheduled for that day? 
  • Can my caregiver arrive and depart safely that day? 
  • Where will my kids be and are they equipped properly to view the eclipse safely? 

The township is recommending the residents visit NASA's website for tips for safe viewing techniques. 

For more information on Millcreek Township's plans for the eclipse, visit here.