Thousands of visitors are expected in Erie on April 8th for the total solar eclipse.

On April 8th the City of Erie is urging everyone to be prepared and plan ahead for the upcoming total solar eclipse. Other cities that have been in the path of totality during past eclipses have reported it taking up to 12 hours to clear major traffic from highways and interstates.

The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority's Executive Director Jeremy Peterson says that gridlock and traffic jams are a major concern.

"We're anticipating some crowds and congestion that we've never seen before," said Peterson.

Getting around town will be difficult. Visitors should arrive early and plan to stay in Erie after the eclipse.

Peterson recommends planning ahead for how you will get around town.

"Be as proactive as possible because I don't think there's anybody in this city or county that knows what we're going to be faced with that day until we're in the middle of it."

All EMTA fixed routes will run as normal. However, Peterson says that riders should expect delays. The LIFT will be providing medical only trips on April 8th.