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Convent, La – Parish officials announced Tuesday, a one-way traffic system will be in place during the much-anticipated lighting of the bonfires on Christmas eve.

The one-way traffic flow will begin at 6:00 p.m. and conclude at 9:00 p.m. with the lighting of the bonfires taking place at 7:00 p.m. The one-way traffic route begins at LA HWY 3213 near the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge and continues north along LA HWY 44 (river road).

Traffic will travel north along HWY 44 in the northbound lane of travel with one way traffic ending at LA HWY 642. The southbound lane of HWY 44 between the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge and HWY 642 will be reserved for emergency and law enforcement vehicles only.

Vehicles will be allowed to enter and exit along any roadways off HWY 44 at any point along the route, however, vehicles entering HWY 44 will be directed to take a right only. The St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office will increase policing of parking along surface streets that serve as major connecting roadways between HWY 44 and HWY 3125 to prevent a stop in the flow of traffic.

Sheriff Willy Martin mentioned, “We feel this effort will allow for increased safety during this heavily attended event for pedestrians and vehicles alike. I encourage those planning to attend, to arrive early, refrain from parking along major surface streets and use extreme caution when walking along HWY 44.”

Officials have developed a map detailing the contraflow route which is available to residents and visitors on the St. James Parish Government website and social media pages.

Parish President Dufresne noted, “We are extremely excited to welcome back this time-honored tradition to our community this Christmas. I am grateful to Sheriff Martin for the additional efforts being made to ensure this year’s event is safe, successful and fun for all.”

To learn more about this year’s bonfire celebrations, visit www.stjamesla.com.