Cruisin’ the Coast 2020, the pandemic version of America’s Largest Block Party, rolls onto local streets Oct. 4-11, with more than 6,300 entries from across the country already registered and hundreds more are expected to register in the opening days of the event.
“Of all of the events, this one has the chance to be successful and safe,” said Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, “but it’s going to take people being responsible and being safe. We’ve seen our daily county average drop from 50 to 17 new tests a day, and we want to keep that number low and lower.”
Motorists on U.S. 90 can expect to see heavier traffic throughout the event, with spectators lining some areas. Traffic cones, which will help police and fire reserve an emergency lane if needed, will go down on U.S. 90 between I-110 and DeBuys Road Oct. 8 or 9.
Biloxi will host its downtown block party on Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thousands of spectators typically browse the downtown area viewing cars that line several blocks of downtown Biloxi.
“We’re going to have things spaced out,” Gilich said. “You can see the cars and you can enjoy this event, for sure, but do it safely.”
Across town, Edgewater Mall will have four days of outdoor entertainment and the Coast Coliseum will host auto auctions and swap meets.
And, of course, thoroughfares, especially U.S. 90, will be busy.
Says Biloxi Police Chief John Miller: “Be patient. Be respectful. And be safe.”