University of Missouri Homecoming parade and football game to cause traffic impacts downtown

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

As the University of Missouri's homecoming week events come to an end, and the Mizzou Tigers get ready to face off against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday, traffic impacts due to the parade and game are to be expected throughout downtown.

The Homecoming parade began Saturday's events at 9 a.m. and went throughout MU's campus and downtown Columbia, causing some road closures along the route.

The parade began on Rollins St. in front of the Reynold's Alumni Center then turned left onto Hitt St. It then made a left onto University Ave. before heading down 9th St, turning left onto Broadway Blvd. and ending on Cherry St.

The section of the parade route on Cherry St. is a sensory-friendly area. Spectators and parade participants were asked to lower their volume, turn off bright and flashing lights and not to honk any horns.

Motorists had to be extra cautious when driving around parade routes before and after. Also being aware of speeding and looking out for pedestrians when driving.

Columbia Police Department's spokesman Christian Tabak told ABC 17 News that officers will be around helping with parade traffic. A traffic unit was also be there to ensure no one is driving under the influence.

For game time, road closures will be in effect and traffic can be seen around Memorial Stadium and downtown.

Mick Deaver Drive will be closed from Champions Dr. to the Hearnes Center, along with multiple closures along Research Park Dr. near Truman's Landing.

UM has provided additional maps that include information about shuttles, parking permits, traffic flow, pedestrian routes, and public parking.

Those attending the game will need to be vigilant about parking, as those spots fill up quickly as it gets closer to gametime.

Several public parking spaces will be open downtown along with free parking at parking garages downtown.

Those free garages are located on Hitt St., University Ave., Conley Ave., Turner Ave. and Virginia Ave.

General public parking will be located off of Hospital Dr. and will cost $35 to park.

Use caution when driving around these areas as traffic is expected and look out for pedestrians walking in and around roadways.

When leaving the game, outbound traffic will be limited to right-hand turns only. While it may not be convenient for some, the university says it is safer and more efficient.

There will be officers around the area to help direct traffic.