2024 FairWell Festival parking, traffic plans revised to avoid delays; RDM advises of weekend Airport Way closure
![Gary Clark Jr. performs at 2023 FairWell festival in Redmond.](https://ktvz.b-cdn.net/2024/07/Gary-Clark-Jr-by-Charles-Reagan-for-Fairwell-2023_4589.jpg)
(Update: SW Airport Way closed during festival, RDM travelers advised to use Veterans Way)
Matthew Draxton will have a report on NewsChannel 21 at Five
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- With the FairWell Festival returning to Central Oregon this week, many are reminded of the traffic issues and frustrations many experienced last year, and officials have been working to address and resolve them.
Hosted at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond, many told NewsChannel 21 last year about having to wait anywhere from an hour and a half to three hours to leave the venue.
Matthew Draxton is speaking Wednesday to Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch and the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office about what the issues were impacting traffic last year, what changes have been made to address those concerns, and how many people are expected to be in attendance this year.
He'll also be speaking with residents of Redmond about their experiences from last year, and what they hope from this year's festival.
His report will be on NewsChannel 21 at Five.
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Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) Passengers Traveling July 19-21 Advised to Use SW Veterans Way
Redmond, OR - Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) passengers may need to allow more time when driving to the terminal due to a temporary closure of SW Airport Way July 19 to July 21, from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. each day. The closure of SW Airport Way, between 21st St. and 4th St., is necessary to mitigate increased traffic and FairWell Festival congestion near the Deschutes County Fair & Expo.
Travelers and visitors to RDM are advised to plan accordingly and use alternative routes, specifically SW Veterans Way, to access the airport from the north during this period. Signage and detour information will be provided to ensure smooth traffic flow and minimize inconvenience.
Airport operations, including flight schedules and terminal services, will continue as usual. We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation during this time.
It is recommended that passengers arrive two hours prior to departure time. This provides adequate time to check luggage and go through TSA security checkpoint. All passengers must be at the boarding gate 15 minutes prior to departure or may be denied boarding. Please note, the airline check-in counters may close 45 minutes before departure.