Drivers might want to avoid downtown Vancouver on Thursday, April 20.
Because it's the 20th day of the fourth month, marijuana supporters are gathering for the annual 4/20 celebration. The largest event is at Sunset Beach, where thousands are expected to congregate, particularly at 4:20 p.m.
Last year, an estimated 40,000 people visited the event, which cost the city close to $150,000, of which the park board picked up $25,000. Policing costs were an additional $100,000.
Vancouver police say traffic will likely be disrupted on Beach Avenue between Burrard and Broughton Street for most of the day.
An additional gathering is expected in the area of the Vancouver Art Gallery, with potential traffic disruptions on Robson Street between Hornby and Howe Street.
Police, fire, City of Vancouver, Park Board and BC Ambulance Service staff are on hand to monitor the events.
“Public safety remains our top priority,” says Const. Jason Doucette. “We will continue to weigh the rights of individuals to have their voice heard, while working to minimize the impact that has on others.”
As of 1:45 p.m. on Thursday, the situation remained mellow, Doucette said. No serious incidents were reported at Sunset Beach or the Vancouver Art Gallery as of 1:45 p.m.
Police anticipate the crowds will continue to grow throughout the afternoon and then dissipate into the early evening. Officers will remain on-site to ensure public safety, while attempting to minimize any negative impacts on the local communities, and to assist other first responders in getting to anyone in the crowd who may require assistance.
“We are reminding motorists to avoid the area around Sunset Beach, and advising those consuming marijuana not to choose to drive,” Doucette said. “Additional traffic enforcement officers will be working to keep our roadways safe during and after the events.”
Officers will also be looking for drivers who are impaired by drugs or alcohol. Drivers can expect to see police drug recognition experts and officers equipped with alcohol screening devices on the roads throughout the day. If people spot an impaired driver they are asked to call 911.
There were also traffic delays in the morning when streets were closed for the funeral proecession for Capt. Bob Rosenlund, a firefighter who died of cancer earlier this month.
This story was updated from the morning version.
