Fort Lauderdale officials provide updates on Panthers championship parade

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Fort Lauderdale officials held a news conference Friday morning to discuss Sunday’s championship parade for the Florida Panthers.

Public safety concerns, traffic closures and parking information are some of the topics that were discussed.

The parade will take place this Sunday, beginning at 11 a.m. in Fort Lauderdale.

The parade will travel along A1A, starting at Riomar Street and concluding just north of Fort Lauderdale Beach Park (across from Hotel Maren) at Southeast Fifth Street, where a formal rally will take place on stage.

The city of Fort Lauderdale is also setting up tents, bleachers, and a stage, just steps from the sand, for a beachside celebration after the parade.

Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis said they are expecting a “couple hundred thousand” people for the event, so Panthers fans are urged to arrive early.

Fifth Street parking will be closed, and while there will be other areas available to park at, officials urge people to also consider taking the water taxi or taking a rideshare.

With the heat being a major concern for everyone in attendance, Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue wants attendees to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion. ”

Police Chief William Schultz said the parade is expected to last an hour to an hour and a half and the rally that follows will be about an hour.

He asked those who plan to attend to bring limited items, and “pack your patience” as there will be significant traffic impacts.

Schultz said there will be a large police presence at the event, and first responders will also be out in full force.

He urged people to “keep your Rolexes” at home and to make sure not to place your phone down at a table if going into any of the nearby establishments.

For parents bringing children, Schultz said a tent will be set up near Bo’s Beach, located at 600 Seabreeze Blvd., where wristbands will be given out for parents to put on their children with their phone numbers in case they become separated.

Local 10′ Roy Ramos spoke with Panthers fans who are excited to attend the Parade of Champions.

“The Florida Panthers it is just crazy down here,” said Tom Lacombe. “Parade starts at 11 a.m. but who knows how long it’s going to go on for.”

“It is a long time coming. it has been 30 years and I am looking forward to it. I think they should be celebrated,” said Panthers fan Chebelle Legami.

Officials also warned the public that Sunday will be a hot day, so people are encouraged to stay hydrated, and those who will be drinking alcoholic beverages are urged to do so responsibly.

If you plan on driving, authorities say parking options include Birch State Park, the Galleria Mall and the parking garage on Las Olas.

Additionally, families with children should note that police will be stationed near Southeast Fifth Street, where kids can receive a wristband with their parents’ information in case they get separated.

For the latest traffic and security updates on the parade, visit Fortlauderdale.gov/panthers.