Traffic Problems Expected For Market Noel, High School Playoffs

HOOVER, AL — Two significant events are slated in Hoover Friday, and Hoover police say preparations are underway to make sure traffic problems are as minimal as possible. The Junior League of Birmingham's Market Noel event begins at 10 a.m. at the Finley Center and will then make way for Hoover High School's playoff game against Thompson at the Hoover Met.

Police said additional officers will be on duty beginning at 3 p.m. to assist with incoming traffic and to provide extra security at the stadium.

"In addition to the football game, the Junior League of Birmingham Market Noel will be taking place at the Finley Center, from 10 a.m. to -9 p.m.," Capt. Keith Czeskleba of the Hoover PD said. "Traffic in the area will be continuously monitored with officers stationed at nearby intersections. Electronic signboards will be utilized to inform motorists the best route to their intended destination."

The Hoover PD listed a few tips to help make traveling to and from the Hoover Met Complex as convenient as possible:

• Plan to arrive to your event early. Both events are expected to be well attended. Although officers will be working intersections in the area, heavy traffic will be unavoidable so give yourself plenty of lead-time.
• Pay attention to the electronic signboards. The signboards will display messages indicating what lane to travel in to reach your desired destination. Those heading to the Market Noel should use the right lane on Stadium Trace Parkway. Residential traffic should also stay in the right lane. Football traffic should use the left lane.
• Parents dropping off their child for the football game should utilize Champions Way to access the lower Met parking lot.
• Football fans heading to the game should purchase parking prior to arrival by using the GoFan app.
• Carpool to your event. Whether you are heading to the game or heading to shop, it’s always more fun with a group!
• When your event has ended, please be patient as you exit the Hoover Met Complex. Officers will be working to get you back home as safely as possible, but traffic will be heavy.
• Stay tuned to the HPD social media outlets for updated information, to include a map to help you navigate to your event.