A protest that some feared would snarl rush hour traffic melted in 90-degree heat Friday evening. Fewer than 50 people turned out, and police appeared to cause more traffic slowdowns than demonstrators.
Earlier this week, the city warned drivers that major intersections might be closed between 4 and 6 p.m. as up to 150 demonstrators marched from the police station to Tonsler Park. Spokesman Brian Wheeler said Charlottesville was prepared for trouble.
“The goal was ensuring that public safety vehicles can get to and from places they need to go – in particular the UVA Medical Center.”
He issued a press release warning that city code bans gatherings of more than 50 people to prevent the spread of COVID, and he said violators could face fines of $500. That, said organizer Katrina Turner, hurt turnout.
“I think when the city put the statement out last might, they kind of scared people, because they told them they were going to be arrested today.”
Meanwhile, police were stopping traffic at major intersections long before marchers came into view – leaving many motorists frustrated and confused.
“Not right now. You can't," one officer told a man trying to reach the Omni Hotel. He then directed the driver to turn onto a side street going the opposite direction.
Groups are supposed to get a permit for events of this kind, but none have been issued since the coronavirus hit. Three previous protests were also held without permits, and Wheeler said organizers would be receiving citations shortly.
