Alternate routes advised for festival weekend

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With the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival taking place this weekend, over 300,000 visitors are expected in the downtown Ponchatoula area.

With the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival taking place this weekend, over 300,000 visitors are expected in the downtown Ponchatoula area. This increased traffic is likely to overload the surrounding interstate system, causing dangerous backups from heavily congested off-ramps, state police said. This type of traffic could force intermittent closures of interstate exits.

In an effort to improve the flow of traffic and ensure that everyone has a safe festival weekend, Louisiana State Police Troop L urges motorists to follow the following alternate route advisories when entering and leaving the Ponchatoula area. Louisiana State Police will be working closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure everyone enjoys the festival and has a safe weekend. There will also be additional troopers on patrol throughout the festival weekend proactively looking for impaired and aggressive drivers in the area.



State police remind the public that, when it comes to road safety, it takes everyone’s participation. Those traveling the roadways should develop a plan that includes the guidelines below to ensure that everyone has the chance to enjoy festival activities without jeopardizing their lives or the lives of others: While troopers will remain vigilant throughout the Ponchatoula and Troop L region, responsible decisions, good driving behavior and precautionary measures will ensure a safe and enjoyable festival experience for everyone. To report impaired drivers or unsafe roadway conditions, dial *LSP (*577) to reach the state police office closest to you.

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