hburgnews.com

Passing this on from JMU Public Relations (emphasis added by me for parking locations):

TRAFFIC AND PARKING LOGISTICS FOR OBAMA EVENT

HARRISONBURG, VA - Due to the increased volume of traffic expected in conjunction with Sen. Barack Obama’s campaign event at James Madison University on Oct. 28, motorists are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time during their afternoon and evening commutes.  Individuals are strongly encouraged to use public transportation throughout the day.

Traffic is expected to be particularly heavy along the Port Republic Road, Reservoir Street and University Boulevard corridors all day.  Additionally, motorists traveling on Interstate 81 near exits 245 and 247 should prepare for delays.  Harrisonburg City Transit buses will operate on a regular schedule.

For those planning on attending the Obama event at JMU, a limited number of parking spaces near the Convocation Center will be available on a first come, first served basis beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Once the Convocation Center lots are full, University Boulevard will be closed to thru traffic between Carrier Drive and Oak Hill Drive.  (Forest Hills residents should display their FHR permits for access to the neighborhood.)

Sections of Bluestone Drive on the main campus may be subject to periodic closures or limited directions of travel.  South Main Street and Cantrell Avenue and other surrounding thoroughfares will experience high volumes of traffic.

Normal parking regulations will be enforced on the JMU campus, with the exception of the Convocation Center lots, throughout the day.

Overflow parking is available at Regal Cinemas and K-Mart, both off of University Boulevard towards East Market Street.  Public transportation to the Convocation Center from these satellite lots will begin at 1:30 p.m.

For those unable to access the Convocation Center, alternate viewing locations of Sen. Obama’s visit are available in the Godwin Gym and the Ballroom at the Festival Conference and Student Center.  An additional alternate location will be outside the Convocation Center on the University Recreation Center (UREC) soccer fields.

No backpacks or umbrellas will be allowed into the Convocation Center.  Concessions will be available once inside the event.