GRANTS PASS, OR. — The City of Grants Pass has announced a series of road closures, traffic reroutes, and parking restrictions in preparation for the annual Boatnik Festival and parade taking place over Memorial Day weekend. Residents and visitors should plan accordingly as the city prepares for large crowds and increased traffic during the festivities.
On Saturday, May 24, 6th Street will be closed to all vehicle traffic—with the exception of parade participants—between “A” Street and the Rogue River. This closure will be in effect from 8:00 a.m. to approximately 1:00 p.m., coinciding with the duration of the parade. During this time, traffic typically traveling along 6th Street will be diverted at “A” Street toward Beacon Drive and rerouted onto the Grants Pass Parkway. From there, drivers may access Interstate 5 or continue along the Parkway to navigate around the event zone.
Additionally, side street closures will impact through traffic in the downtown area. Streets from B to F will be closed between 4th and 7th Streets, and streets from G to M will be inaccessible to through traffic between 5th and 7th Streets. These restrictions aim to provide safety and space for parade attendees, participants, and emergency personnel.
The Caveman Bridge (6th Street Bridge) will also be closed to vehicles on the morning of the parade, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Anyone needing to travel across the Rogue River during this period must use the Grants Pass Parkway Bridge or the 7th Street Bridge, which will remain open for northbound traffic only.
To accommodate the parade and ensure public safety, parking restrictions will be strictly enforced. No parking will be allowed from midnight Friday, May 23, through Saturday afternoon on the following stretches:
- 6th Street, from “A” Street to the Caveman Bridge
- Voorhies Way, between 6th and 7th Streets
The city is also advising parade spectators to remain within designated viewing areas, standing or sitting adjacent to the curb within marked parking stalls on 6th Street. This restriction is intended to keep pedestrians off the roadway and ensure a clear, safe path for parade vehicles and performers.
In addition to parade-related closures, the city has scheduled other traffic and access changes throughout the holiday weekend. East Park Street will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 6:00 a.m. Friday, May 23, through 9:00 p.m. Monday, May 26. Only vehicles with a Boatnik event parking pass or a valid disabled parking permit will be permitted access via the Parkway entrance.
Baker Park will also be off-limits to vehicle traffic and boat launching will be prohibited from Friday at 5:00 p.m. through Monday at 3:00 p.m.
Dog owners are encouraged to leave pets at home, as the large crowds and heat may present safety concerns along the parade route.
The City of Grants Pass encourages attendees and travelers to plan ahead and allow extra time for detours and traffic congestion. Those with questions can contact Julie Hall at 541-450-6000 for additional information.