With the grand opening of Bass Pro Shops just moments away, officials of the City of East Ridge remind area residents and businesses of the potential traffic congestion that comes with such a large business opening on a major traffic corridor.
On Wednesday, Bass Pro Shops will have its grand opening with special celebrity guests at 6 p.m.
During the times surrounding this event, traffic along Ringgold Road and Interstate 75 could potentially be heavily congested. The public should allow for extra travel time if they have business or are traveling home at this time, as well as follow all traffic laws.
On Thursday morning the city will have its ribbon cutting ceremony at 7:15 a.m. ahead of the 8 a.m. store opening. This day also starts the giveaway promotion weekend, which could see large crowds reminiscent of the after Thanksgiving sale day. These giveaway days will continue until Sunday.
During the weekend, normal congestion seen at the East Ridge Flea Market and Boyd’s Speedway will be intensified by the traffic of the Bass Pro Shops. Please be aware of pedestrians that may utilize other parking arrangements to walk to the store.
There are several events scheduled for Camp Jordan Park and Arena, so if you are attending one of these events, you may want to take the back entrance at Frawley Road to avoid Camp Jordan Parkway congestion. There will be shuttles running from Camp Jordan Park to Bass Pro Shops if parking at the store fills up.
Officials said, "If you are going to join in the celebration during the grand opening weekend, please remember to follow all traffic laws and to be patient if traffic begins to stop. Bass Pro Shops is looking forward to having you as a guest at their store just as much as we look forward to having you visit our city."