No Booze, Lawn Parking At Woodward Dream Cruise

ROYAL OAK, MI — Royal Oak has the longest stretch of Woodward Avenue — 4 miles — in Oakland County, with 13 Mile and Woodward generally considered the epicenter of the Dream Cruise. Here’s a list of Do’s and Dont's from the city:

• DON’T use the median to watch the event. Medians must remain clear for law enforcement vehicles and ambulances.
• DON’T bring alcohol to event. The alcohol-free policy is strictly enforced.
• DON’T block the sidewalk with your lawn chair or bike. Sidewalks must remain clear at all times.
• DON’T drive recklessly or carelessly or you WILL be ticketed. This is a family-friendly event.
• DO use caution to make it safe for all.
• DON’T block driveways if you park in the neighborhoods. Please be courteous.
• DO bring sunscreen and water if you plan to spend the day at the event.
• And DO heed weather warnings! In 2011, a line of torrential rains barreled through Royal Oak leaving throngs of spectators seeking shelter.

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Royal recommends Dream Cruise visitors park at Gunn Dyer Park. The Royal Oak Nature Society is managing the parking lot and will be getting a portion of the $10 entry fee. The park is located at corner of Chester & Hampton in Royal Oak which is 1 block east of Woodward & just north of Memorial Park (Woodward & 13 Mile Rd).

Meanwhile, some residents are upset with the city for stopping lawn parking during the Dream Cruise. According to a WXYZ-TV report, residents on Ravena Street, which sits behind Duggan’s Irish Pub, were told by police that they would not be able to charge Cruise goers to park on their lawns. Some had had cars park on their lawns for nearly 10 years.

Royal Oak isn’t the only police agency who be watching out for traffic and parking issues. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office will be ticketing commercial vehicles trying to travel Woodward Avenue from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, the Royal Oak Tribune reported.

Photo by Joe DeSousa via Flickr Commons.