Sarasota Memorial Day Parade: Road Closures and Safety Tips
The annual Memorial Day Parade in Sarasota is set to take place on Monday, May 27, 2024, starting at 10 a.m. at Main Street and Osprey Avenue. Residents and visitors should be aware of several road closures and tow-away zones in effect during the event:
- 8:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Gulfstream Avenue closed from Cocoanut Avenue to McAnsh Square
- 6:00 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Main Street closed from U.S. 301 to Gulfstream Avenue
- 8:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Links Avenue closed from Fruitville Road to Ringling Boulevard
- 8:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Osprey Avenue closed from Fruitville Road to Ringling Boulevard
Vehicles not removed by the posted time will be towed at the owner’s expense. For information on towed vehicles, please contact Upman’s Towing at 941-365-7084.
The Memorial Day holiday kicks off on Friday, May 24, 2024. With the holiday weekend approaching, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights the importance of seat belt use. In 2022, 11,302 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants were killed in crashes in the United States. Notably, 57% of those killed at night were not wearing seat belts. As part of the Click It or Ticket campaign, law enforcement will be strictly enforcing seat belt laws, issuing citations both day and night
. In Sarasota, the maximum penalty for a seat belt violation is $116.
Sarasota Police Officers encourage everyone to follow these safety tips while traveling:
- Reduce Your Speed: More speeding-related fatalities occur during the summer months than at any other time of the year.
- Avoid Distractions: Do not use cell phones or other devices while driving.
- Designate a Sober Driver: If you consume alcohol, ensure you have a sober driver or use alternate transportation.
- Drive Defensively: Exercise caution, especially in bad weather.
Stay informed about any additional road closures or event updates by visiting the City of Sarasota’s official website. Celebrate responsibly and honor the spirit of Memorial Day by ensuring safety on the roads.
Photo from Sarasota Police Department