VCU Spirit Walk to close down streets starting at 6 PM

At approximately 6 p.m., students from VCU’s Class of 2019 will walk from the Siegel Center to Monroe Park road between the two will be closed for about 20 minutes.

August 18, 2015; 8:51 AM • by Richard Hayes

We’ve got the classic good news, bad news scenario. The bad news is that VCU student will be marching in the middle of the streets impacting commuters attempts to return home. The good news is that this is occurring later than previous years so the impact won’t be nearly as severe. You do not want to leave work late today, trust me.

On Tuesday, Aug. 18, Virginia Commonwealth University will hold its annual New Student Convocation and Spirit Walk. As part of the celebration to welcome new students to the university, there will be brief road closures that evening.

At approximately 6 p.m., students from VCU’s Class of 2019 will walk from the Siegel Center to Monroe Park. In order to ensure the safety of participating students, faculty and staff, the VCU Police Department will briefly close the eastbound lanes of West Broad Street between North Harrison Street and North Laurel Street for an estimated 20 minutes, though the exact time is subject to change.

The Spirit Walk route continues onto North Laurel Street, crossing West Grace Street and West Franklin Street and will end at Monroe Park. VCU Police officers will close Laurel Street briefly to allow participants to walk to the park. Intersections along this route will be blocked but will be opened for vehicular travel as soon as participants pass through. VCUPD officers will lead and follow Spirit Walk participants.

Drivers are encouraged to take alternate routes through the area during this time. Suggested alternatives include West Leigh Street, West Cary Street, Interstate 95 or the Downtown Expressway.

VCU Police is working with Richmond Police and other partners to minimize delays and ensure the safety of the students, faculty and staff participating in the event.

Image: VCU Alumni