Preparations are well underway for Jets playoff celebrations, starting with the Winnipeg Whiteout Street Party.
Winnipeg police Const. Tammy Skrabek said Winnipeg has some of the greatest fans in the league and they want everyone to celebrate in a safe manner.
“We don’t know how many people to expect. We don’t know how many resources we need.
We’ve gathered up what we think will be enough and we’re hoping to see how things play out and provide service as we go,” Skrabek said.
She added there will also be officers on stand-by.
Skrabek suggested restrictions will be in place to ensure the family event is safe and enjoyable for all, particularly where alcohol is concerned.
Patrons of downtown restaurants and bars who wish to join the Street Party will not be permitted to carry beverages from one place to the other. Alcohol will be available for purchase at the Street party and must be consumed within the licensed area.
The street party will begin at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. A second party will happen in conjunction with Game 2 on Friday.
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Street parties will be held for each home game of the playoff series, starting about two hours prior to puck drop, and wrap up a half hour after the game ends.
WATCH: Event organizers share details on safety, timing and parking for Wednesday’s street party
Kevin Donnelly of True North Sports and Entertainment said planners are working to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible, with 5,000 – 10,000 people expected to take part.
“Certainly the 6 p.m. start is earlier than we might have planned ourselves… the game production people, the security, everybody is doing their best to be prepared.”
There will be two large screens, a stage, entertainment, food trucks and lots for people to see and do.
With thousands pouring into the area, fans are encouraged to allow plenty of time to get where they are going. Transit is recommended, but Donnelly said people who drive in will still be able to find parking.
“There is still lots of parking in the downtown area. Winnipeg Square has ample spots that don’t fill up… just plan accordingly, and you might have to walk a couple blocks.”
Donnelly suggests fans head down whenever they can and bring their own lawn chair ready to enjoy Winnipeg outside in April.
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Road Closures
Donald Street from Portage Avenue to Graham Avenue will close at 12 p.m. on Wednesday until 1 a.m on Thursday.
All vehicles will need to enter through the Smith Street entrance. The Donald Street exit will be open, according to the city.
Bus Route changes
Transit buses will be rerouted off Graham Avenue from Carlton Street to Smith Street beginning at 6 p.m. and should return to regular routes at 11 p.m. Wednesday night to accommodate an expected increase in pedestrian traffic.
Bus stops along Graham Avenue eastbound between Hargrave and Smith Streets will be temporarily relocated to northbound Smith Street at Graham Avenue. Stops along westbound Graham Avenue between Smith and Edmonton Streets will be temporarily relocated to St. Mary Avenue at Hargrave Street and to Edmonton Street at Graham Avenue
The Handi-Transit loading zone on southbound Donald at Graham will be temporarily relocated to eastbound Portage next to the Radisson Hotel.
More information on Transit or road closures can be found on the City of Winnipeg website.
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