Traffic Advisory for Northern Virginia

My youngest Brother sent this along:

Alert from Fairfax County - Civil War Re-enactment

The four-day observance of the 150th anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas [First Battle of Bull Run for all us "Yankees"] begins Thursday morning, July 21, at the Manassas National Battlefield Park.

Although the event takes place in Prince William County, thousands of actors are expected to participate in the reenactment as well as countless visitors in attendance.

Drivers in the area of Lee Highway/Route 29, Sudley Road/Route 234 and throughout Manassas National Battlefield Park area can expect major congestion and delays due to the event and are encouraged to avoid the area if possible. Those driving in these areas need to drive with care, follow police direction and remain alert for pedestrians traversing and crossing roadways.

It is also anticipated that the observance may cause traffic related back-ups and delays in Fairfax County along portions of Lee Highway, Lee Jackson Highway and I-66.

Please allow plenty of time if traveling to or near the observance.

More information on the event can be found online at [this URL].

I am hoping it starts AFTER the morning rush hour.  If Fairfax County expects problems, Prince William County will have even more problems and so will all the folks who live out the I-66 Freeway.

On the other hand, to reenact the First Battle of Manassas 150 years on is a wonderful thing and may well help school age children and adults better understand what a terrible and important thing the US Civil War was.

And, in a way, this traffic jam will be part of the reenactment, since many civilians went out from Washington in their carriages to see the first battle, only to flee back as it didn't go well for the Union.

Also, a balloon was used by the Union to observe Confederate dispositions post battle, which is another story.

Regards  —  Cliff