South Tidewater News

J&A Racing's Norfolk Harbor Race Series and the Downtown Norfolk Council's Grand Illumination Parade are set to take place in Norfolk on the weekend of November 23-24. The events will bring changes to traffic patterns and parking availability in the area.

Residents, visitors, and businesses should be prepared for traffic delays on Saturday, November 23, from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., as well as from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sunday, November 24, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Norfolk police will manage traffic and ensure access when it is safe. Street closures will affect entry and exit from downtown parking garages.

Attention is required for NO STOPPING/NO PARKING signs, which apply to entire blocks rather than just specific locations where signs are posted. Vehicles parked in event zones may be towed for public safety reasons. If street parking is unavailable, options include parking garages, lots, and Hampton Roads Transit's The Tide light rail.

Race participants, spectators, and parade attendees are advised to arrive early. Some parking garages will offer discounts for early arrivals with both cash or credit payment options available at entry points.

Parking rates during the event weekend are as follows:

- On Friday, November 22: Waterside Garage charges $3 from noon to 7 p.m., while other garages maintain normal hourly rates.

- On Saturday, November 23: All downtown garages charge $3 from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., increasing to $5 after that until close.

- On Sunday, November 24: Most downtown garages (except MacArthur Center) charge $5 from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., with normal hourly rates afterward; MacArthur Center Garages retain their standard rates throughout the day.

For additional information regarding street closures and parking maps or updates via text message alerts about street closures and event updates during the Norfolk Harbor Race weekend or Grand Illumination Parade alerts can be accessed by texting NFKHARBOR or NFKPARADE respectively to the number provided.