The Newport Police Department has issued a traffic advisory ahead of the sold-out Newport Jazz Festival, which kicks off tomorrow at Fort Adams State Park and runs through Sunday, August 3.
According to Lieutenant Joseph C. Carroll, the department’s Public Information Officer, festival-goers should expect significant traffic delays beginning at 8:00 a.m. each day on Harrison Avenue and surrounding roads as vehicles enter the fort. Newport Police officers will be stationed throughout the area to assist with safety and traffic flow.
The evening exodus presents the biggest challenge for drivers. Vehicles typically begin leaving Fort Adams around 7:30 p.m., creating heavy congestion on multiple major arteries including Harrison Avenue, Ruggles Avenue, Bellevue Avenue, Narragansett Avenue, Coggeshall Avenue, Annandale Road, and Memorial Boulevard. Traffic will extend into the downtown area as well.
However, Carroll emphasized that downtown businesses and restaurants will remain open and accessible throughout the festival weekend despite the increased traffic volume. The department plans to disperse traffic along Memorial Boulevard to help manage the flow.
The three-day jazz festival, one of Newport’s signature summer events, draws thousands of music lovers to the scenic Fort Adams location each year. This year’s sold-out status suggests even larger crowds than usual, making the traffic planning particularly crucial.
Festival attendees are encouraged to plan extra travel time and consider alternative routes when possible. Those dining or shopping downtown should expect delays but can still access businesses as usual.
The Newport Police Department can be reached at 401-845-5726 for any traffic-related questions during the festival weekend.
