Traffic gridlock expected during Trump visit and U of L home game

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Two major events are planned in Louisville Tuesday, which will likely mean one big traffic and parking headache.

Donald Trump's downtown rally lands on the same night as the final home game of the U of L's men's basketball season.

At least 27,000 people are expected in downtown for both events and LMPD says it’ll have 100 officers out ready for the crowds.

Jobs, immigration, the economy and education will all likely be discussed on Tuesday as GOP frontrunner Donald Trump makes a campaign stop in Louisville.

The republican presidential candidate will bring in the crowds. The International Convention Center is planning on at least 5,000 people and that’s not counting the potential protesters.

Doors open at 1 p.m., with the event scheduled to start at 4 p.m., in Hall 2D.

If you're headed to the rally, the Secret Service says no weapons will be allowed. You will also not be able to go in and out of the event, or bring in bottles/cans/water or backpacks. Concessions will also be limited.

If you ride the bus, you may experience delays because TARC says some routes could be detoured.

"There's only gonna be one street closure and that's going to be Third Street, between Jefferson and Market Street," said LMPD Spokesperson Dwight Mitchell.

LMPD says that closure will likely start Tuesday afternoon at 1 p.m. and last until about 6 p.m.

Parking will also be a challenge. Besides the 3,000 downtown metered spots, about 80 percent of the spaces owned by the city are already taken by monthly guests.

"My biggest recommendation would be just to be to let everyone know -- to avoid their frustration -- is plan on coming down early, securing your parking spot, visiting some of the businesses and going to your event of choice," said Tiffany Smith, Director of Parking Authority of River City.

Trump's rally is supposed to wrap up just before the doors open at the Yum! Center for U of L's last home game of the season -- which is also senior night.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with tip off at 8:06 p.m. Nearly 22,000 people are expected.

"Everybody knows we've got two games left and this is the last home game,” said Kenny Klein, a spokesperson for U of L Athletics. “The last home game is always special too so, yes, this one of the last times you'll get to see the team play and it's been a fun year for the guys.

If you’re headed anywhere downtown on Tuesday just be patient and leave early.

As for tickets to Trump’s event – you can sign up for them here.