City trims Old Town road‑closures list to 25 days; staff outlines Rod Run closures and resident parking plan

Community Services staff told the Old Town Local Advisory Committee that a review of Old Town event road closures reduced the total to 25 days for the year and outlined traffic control and parking plans for the upcoming Rod Run.

The department’s presenter said the city combined some events, eliminated the ice skating rink for the year and condensed the Sunset Market season from March–November to May–October to reduce overall road closures. Staff said a combined health fair and National Preparedness Fair and other consolidations helped reach the 25‑day figure.

Staff described the Rod Run plans in detail. The cruise night is scheduled Friday, May 2, from 5 to 8 p.m.; Front Street closures begin at 4 p.m. to stage participants, with roads reopening to regular business about 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, May 3, the show runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; staff will start closures at about 4:30 a.m. to set up and expect normal traffic flow to resume around 5 p.m. Staff said Mercedes Street will remain open for certain traffic flows, the parking garage will be available, and the senior center parking lot will be designated for resident parking to ease congestion and reduce the need for residents to move cars overnight.

Staff also noted that the farmers market will not run the Saturday of the Rod Run so vendors and lots can be used for participants, and that Cartoonapalooza Art Festival may be shortened or moved indoors due to duration concerns with an outside private organizer.

Committee members asked about signage for community events, using side streets to place more cars to improve foot traffic for businesses, and whether the senior center lot would be convenient; staff said it would be and that they will circulate updated information to merchants and resident contacts. Staff also said they would coordinate with Public Works and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department on traffic flow and barricade placement.

Staff said they will return with final details and welcomed committee feedback after the event.