Events Expected to Cause Weekend Traffic Challenges in Pasadena

President Obama’s whirlwind California trip Saturday will have serious traffic implications for the west side. But multiple major events around Pasadena will bring their own traffic challenges. Large crowds are expected at Pasadena’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory open house from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Parking is limited so arrive early and expect heavy traffic. The Berkshire and Arroyo/Windsor exits on the 210 Freeway may be impacted. The Dodgers have a playoff game scheduled at Dodger Stadium at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday so traffic on the 110 Freeway will be affected. The Zac Brown Band is performing at the Hollywood Bowl which will bring added traffic to downtown Pasadena for those taking advantage of the Park and Ride system.

Soccer fans arriving for the sold out 6:00 p.m. CONCACAF Cup between USA and Mexico at the Rose Bowl will be competing for road space with all the other venues so allowing extra time and a bit of pre-planning are in order. Parking is limited around the Rose Bowl so consider some alternatives: (1) Take the Train: The Gold Line Holly Street Station is just a short walk to the free shuttle operation at Parsons Engineering (Delacey Ave. and Holly St.) where buses continuously shuttle fans to the front gate of the Rose Bowl and back. (2) Park in Old Pasadena: Parking at Parsons Engineering or one of the other lots in Old Pasadena is a smart way to avoid the heavy congestion around the Rose Bowl. The free shuttle from Parsons will deliver you to the front gate of the Rose Bowl and return you to your car after the match.

There will be ticket check points for all event attendees, before heading into the Stadium area. Those without a ticket will not be permitted into the area and should not plan to come to the Rose Bowl area for this event.

If you decide to drive into the Rose Bowl area, plan to arrive early and enjoy the pre-event activities planned around the stadium. Most fans arrive from the south which experiences considerable congestion during peak traffic. If you are able to arrive from the north by taking the 2 freeway north and the 210 east to the Berkshire, Arroyo/ Windsor, or Lincoln exits you will avoid much of the congestion. During congested periods, avoid the San Rafael, Colorado, and Mountain/Seco exits and continue west on the 210 Freeway to the Lincoln Ave. or Arroyo/Windsor exits. Parking is discounted for carpoolers with four or more in the vehicle so grab some friends and save some cash. Whichever event you are attending, plan ahead and allow extra time to ensure you maximize your experience and arrive with minimum frustration.

For additional information on Rose Bowl events, check out their website at http://www.rosebowlstadium.com/. CONCACAF Cup attendees and fans should follow the Stadium on their Facebook, Twitter and Website beginning at 2:00 p.m. for updated traffic information throughout the soccer match.

For more information, contact Lt. Pete Hettema (Traffic) at (626) 744-7159 or phettema@cityofpasadena.net.