Newport Folk Festival plans traffic solutions with city for 2025 event

The Newport City Council meeting on January 8, 2025, spotlighted the Newport Folk Festival's upcoming event at Fort Adams State Park, scheduled for July 25-27. Council members expressed significant concerns regarding traffic management, echoing frustrations from previous years when major events led to congestion in the southern neighborhoods of Newport.

Councilor Carlin raised the issue, referencing last year's successful traffic coordination during the U.S. Golf Association event, which involved extensive collaboration among city officials, police, and fire departments. He urged the Newport Festival Foundation to implement similar strategies to mitigate traffic issues for the folk festival, emphasizing the need for effective shuttle services to ease congestion.

Jennifer Reaver, representing the Newport Festival Foundation, acknowledged the concerns and outlined their proactive approach. The foundation has initiated quarterly planning meetings with city and state officials, including the police and fire departments, to devise a comprehensive traffic management plan. Reaver highlighted the complexities involved, noting that the festival's logistics require accommodating attendees who bring food and supplies, which complicates the shuttle arrangements.

Despite the challenges, Reaver assured the council that they are exploring various solutions, including potential additional ferry routes to reduce road traffic. The foundation is committed to addressing the traffic concerns raised by residents, with plans for an ancillary parking strategy and free shuttle services if attendance exceeds expectations.

As the festival approaches, the Newport Festival Foundation and city officials are working diligently to ensure a smooth experience for both attendees and local residents, aiming to strike a balance between celebrating music and maintaining community harmony.