Wimberley plans for the Eclipse

Wimberley’s Tourism Department, headed up by Leeann Kirby, has been hard at work planning for the April 8 total eclipse that could bring as many as 50,000 visitors to the city. Kirby, aided by City Liaison, Ted Gartner, has prepared guides for citizens during the eclipse weekend, to make them aware of the disruptions to their normal activities.

The City’s main viewing location will be at the Soccer Fields at Blue Hole Park on Old Kyle Rd. Middleton Brewery, Roughhouse Brewery and Jean Ann’s antiques will hold public eclipse events.

Locals are advised to stay home and not venture into town, beginning April 5 through April 9. It is highly suggested that residents and their guests celebrate the eclipse either at home or in neighborhood viewing parties because the downtown and Blue Hole areas will be exceptionally busy. The Square, the Oak Park Welcome Center area behind the Square, the Quarter shops and Old Kyle Road will be open to foot traffic only, April 6 through 8. Ranch Road 12 and other major traffic arteries will likely be jammed. Parking in the downtown area is reserved for downtown employees only.

Local citizens are advised to shop, fill prescriptions, stock up on water, food and pet supplies the week before. Gas tanks should be filled. Wireless disruptions are to be anticipated, with slower cell phone and internet service. There could be potential issues with debit and credit card processing. It is suggested that locals have cash on hand for transactions.

Traffic is expected to be heavily impacted. Not only will visitors begin pouring into Wimberley and the Hill Country on Friday April 5, Market Days will occur as planned on Saturday, April 6. It is possible to be stuck in traffic for many hours over the weekend.

Restaurants will be overwhelmed and could run out of food. Gas stations and retail stores will be very busy. Businesses that are not essential that don’t cater to tourists may be closed. Doctor’s offices and pharmacies may not be open.

Citizens are advised to review and update their family emergency plans and to build a home safety kit that will sustain them for the four days of the event. Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services could take a long time to arrive due to traffic and an increase in calls. Locals should have plans in place and follow them.

The Wimberley Independent School District has canceled classes for April 8. Parents should plan for childcare.

Eclipse glasses are available now for purchase at the Oak Park Welcome Center and other locations around town. Residents should advise friends coming to the area that lodging is most likely fully booked. If phone and internet services are not available, residents should tune in to KWVH 94.3 on their car radios for the latest updates.